Sadly, The End For Bonza Appears Nigh As Employees Are Formally Let Go
13 Jun '24

Some six weeks after Bonza went into administration, Bonza employees were formally let go at an online meeting on Tuesday, June 11th. 

Follwing two months without pay, administrators told the budget airline’s 323 employees their jobs were immediately terminated.

“The deadline for interested parties to submit a binding offer in relation to the future of Bonza Aviation expired at the close of business Friday 7 June 2024,” administrator Hall Chadwick said in a statement.

“The Administrators assisted a number of interested parties through the sale campaign, allowing each party to conduct their due diligence and formulate any offer. Unfortunately, the Administrators did not receive any binding offers.”

While the end seems nigh for the airline, the administrator said a potential buyer could still emerge at the last minute – despite issuing multiple deadlines.

“The Administrators will provide an update to all creditors shortly and will look to convene the major meeting of the Company in which creditors will decide the future of the Company,” it added.

Mr & Mrs Smith ptoperties now integtated into World of Hayatt - but some disappointments
26 Apr '24

On 24 April 2024, Hyatt officially launched the integration of Mr & Mrs Smith properties into the Hyatt loyalty program.

The launch was much anticipated, as these are very desirable properties now accessible via an equally desirable loyalty program.

Positives for existing members are that if booked directly through Hyatt channels, (but NOT if booked through Mr & Mrs Smith channels):

1. More than 700 Mr & Mrs Smith hotels will be participating, a significant boost to the range available to World of Hyatt members
2. Mr & Mrs Smith bookings will earn 1 Status Credit per night stayed and Hyatt points at the rate of 5 per USD1 spent 
   
3. Tier bonus rates are applied to the above base rates and are counted as bonus points (the same as for Hyatt properties).

However. I found it disappointing that the partnership between Hyatt and Mr & Mrs Smith appears to be a purely marketing one, with their programs being kept quite independent of each other.


Participating Properties

Not all Mr & Mrs Smith properties are participating in World of Hyatt.  Those listed on "Hyatt Booking Channels" (ie. can be booked directly through Hyatt’s website, mobile app, or call centres) are participating ones.  If a property does not appear there, then it is “non-participating”.At least this makes it clear, no searching for lists etc - if you see a property there, then you are good to go. If the property does not appear there, then Hyatt members do not earn or redeem Hyatt points, earn Tier Credits, nor are you entitled to any elite member tier benefits during your stay.

Attaching Your World of Hyatt Membership Number To the Booking

A Member cannot associate their World of Hyatt Program membership number with a reservation during their stay at a Participating Mr & Mrs Smith Property nor by contacting Mr & Mrs Smith or the property directly.  To earn you points and tier credits, it must be attached to the booking and only when made through Hyatt Booking Channels.

Redeeming World of Hyatt Points For Bookings

"World of Hyatt points can be redeemed for a Free Night Award at any Participating Mr & Mrs Smith Property, subject to availability at the applicable property. The number of points necessary to secure a Free Night Award for a particular room type at a Participating Mr & Mrs Smith Property on a particular night will be as indicated on the Hyatt Booking Channels and will include all applicable taxes and fees (including resort fees, if applicable).

So Hyatt's current peak/off-peak pricing structure does not apply. A dynamic pricing model applies to Mr & Mr Smith bookings.


The following types of award are not redeemable at any Mr & Mrs Smith Property: 

1. Free Night Awards other than those secured through the redemption of points,
   
2. Points + Cash Awards,
   
3. any kind of Room Upgrade Award (whether secured by point redemption or otherwise),
   
4. Guest of Honor Awards,
   
5. Dining, Spa & More Awards, or
   
6. Future Meeting Credits

Restrictions Applying To Bookings

Note also that certain requirements and restrictions (e.g., minimum length of stay requirements, minimum advance booking dates, etc.) and/or special cancellation, deposit, and other policies may apply at Participating Mr & Mrs Smith Properties..

So, if you do book a Mr & Mrs Smith property and subsequently need to cancel the booking, you need to take care that you follow the individual property's cancellation policy carefully, as "If a Member does not follow the proper cancellation policy for the applicable property or if a Member does not check in when scheduled, the points redeemed for the applicable Award Reservation will be forfeited by the Member."


Conclusions

I think it is a great asset having more than 700 Mr & Mrs Smith (very attractive) properties available to be booked by members through the World of Hyatt program. 

The access does however come with restrictions, indicating that it is a quite “arm’s length” alliance, with features of both Hyatt and Mr & Mrs Smith programs quarantined from each other.

The dynamic pricing for these properties will be a big disappointment for Hyatt members, given that World of Hyatt is still using a peak/off-peak pricing method for Hyatt properties.  Hopefully however, this will:

1. remove a criticism of the earlier alliance with SLH, where prices on the Hyatt website were consistently higher than those for the identical property booking when made directly on SLH’s website.
   
2. Not be a sign of things to come for the World of Hyatt program more generally.
   

The above is based on the exact T&C’s contained in World of Hyatt Terms & Conditions dated 24 April 2024 and Terms & Conditions for Participation in World of Hyatt by Mr & Mrs Smith Collection Properties also dated 24 April 2024.

Bonza launches booking website
6 Apr '24

After customer feedback, low-cost carrier Bonza has launched a new website that allows flyers to make bookings.

Travellers can use the new website to book flights and Bonza Holiday packages, which include flights, baggage, accommodation and the option to add travel insurance, car hire or airport transfers. 

Prior to the new website, Bonza customers could only book flights on the carrier’s app. The first airline globally to prioritise app bookings, the airline says its Fly Bonza app has been downloaded over 1.8 million times since launching just over a year ago.
.
it will continue to be the only way to check in, obtain boarding passes, make menu purchases and enjoy entertainment onboard. 

The airline’s new website lets customers book tailored package holidays to any of their 21 destinations, with activities and attractions also coming soon. Each Bonza Holiday package includes a 23kg checked bag, 8kg hand luggage and standard ‘Pick’ seats. 

Plus, the carrier offers a price match guarantee, in which it will refund the difference if customers find a cheaper holiday within 24 hours of booking. 

In February, the airline announced it would link the Sunshine Coast and Tasmania for the first time.


Apparently the demand for the ability to book via a website was a critical part of flyer feedback to Bonza.  Well done Bonza for being responsive to its customer's requests !

I hope this initiative results in even greater support for this low-cost airline.

Accor opens 22 new properties in Japan - in a single day!
5 Apr '24

Accor has announced the opening of 22 hotels and over 6,000 rooms in Japan. With these openings, the Group’s footprint in Japan will instantly double increasing Accor’s portfolio of hotels in Japan to 46 properties.

The hotels, comprising 12 Grand Mercure and 10 Mercure hotels, range in location from the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido to the southernmost prefecture of Okinawa and are located close to local hidden gems such as Cape Zanpa in Okinawa, Asuka village in Nara, Shiroi Koibito Park in Hokkaido and Senri Beach in Wakayama.  Each hotel offers a range of guestrooms, restaurants, and wellness facilities such as onsen, saunas and swimming pools.

Prior to the addition of these new hotels, Accor was operating 24 hotels in Japan, under eight brands: MGallery; Pullman; Swissôtel; Mercure; Novotel; ibis; ibis Styles and ibis budget. In addition to the 22 Grand Mercure and Mercure hotels that joined Accor’s network on 1 April 2024, there are two more properties currently in the group’s pipeline.

Grand Mercure Hotels & Resorts

• Grand Mercure Sapporo Odori Park
• Grand Mercure Nasu Highlands Resort & Spa
  
• Grand Mercure Yatsugatake Resort & Spa
  
• Grand Mercure Minamiboso Resort & Spa
  
• Grand Mercure Lake Hamana Resort & Spa
  
• Grand Mercure Ise-shima Resort & Spa
  
• Grand Mercure Lake Biwa Resort & Spa
  
• Grand Mercure Nara Kashihara
  
• Grand Mercure Wakayama Minabe Resort & Spa
  
• Grand Mercure Awaji Island Resort & Spa
  
• Grand Mercure Beppu Bay Resort & Spa
  
• Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa Resort

Mercure Hotels & Resorts

• Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa
  
• Mercure Urabandai Resort & Spa
  
• Mercure Nagano Matsushiro Resort & Spa
  
• Mercure Toyama Tonami Resort & Spa
  
• Mercure Wakayama Kushimoto Resort & Spa
  
• Mercure Kyoto Miyazu Resort & Spa
  
• Mercure Tottori Daisen Resort & Spa
  
• Mercure Kochi Tosa Resort & Spa
  
• Mercure Fukuoka Munakata Resort & Spa
  
• Mercure Saga Karatsu Resort.

I expect these will all participate in the Accor Live Limitless program. For information refer to our guide to  Accor ALL.

Singapore Airlines dishes up first Premium Economy upgrade in 9 years
18 Mar '24

Singapore Airlines has updated its Premium Economy inflight experience for the first time since launching in 2015 with an expanded dining menu that includes a flute of French Champagne after take-off plus a new amenity kit from 31 March 2024.

As part of the Premium Class revamp, Singapore Airlines (SQ) will also introduce upcoming new cabin products and inflight entertainment systems.

All SQ flights will offer the improved Premium Class dining and beverage selection, which includes a glass of Charles de Cazanove Brut Tradition NV Champagne and meals served on custom-made porcelain serviceware.

SQ has more than 200 new appetisers, main courses and desserts in its Premium Economy Class inflight menu expansion. Special meals including a vegan option are also available.


* New Premium Economy Class meals include a seasonal appetiser, main course, bread, dessert and cheese and crackers served on a linen-lined tray with silverware.

* Passengers will also have the option of croissants for breakfast and a choice of international or Asian cuisine for the main course on all flights.


They can also choose from an expanded Book the Cook menu with up to 20 dishes available on rotation for pre-order at least 24 hours before departure. 

Along with the French Champagne, passengers will enjoy an expanded beverage selection that includes the signature Singapore Sling cocktail, ANZ wines, herbal teas and a new Cadbury hot chocolate option.

Between meals, they can request new snack options such as almonds and cashews along with the existing variety of potato chips, assorted buns, sandwiches, muffins and flavoured popcorn.

In addition, on all flights of at least seven hours’ duration, passengers will receive a new, exclusively designed eco-friendly amenity kit with slippers, an eye mask and lip balm, while kids flying to and from Singapore will enjoy Disney collectibles.

Turkish Airlines Australian Debut Flight Lands At Melbourne Airport
4 Mar '24

Australia welcomes Turkish Airlines. The carrier that flies to more countries than any other airline has added Australia to its list of international destinations, touching down at Melbourne Airport - its 346th port - on Saturday night. 03 Mar 2024

Istanbul bound - Turkish Airlines' first Australian flight takes off from Melbourne Scheduled to arrive in Melbourne at 8.40pm, flight TK168 landed in the Victorian capital at 8.44pm (pretty punctual for a first effort), before TK169 departed for Istanbul (via Singapore) at 11.20pm (scheduled for 10.30pm). Turkish’s arrival in Melbourne marks several firsts.  Most obviously, it is the first time the 90-year-old carrier has operated a service to Australia, a market it is confident will take up the direct flights – thanks in part to Melbourne’s large Turkish population.  Secondly, Turkish’s arrival marks the first time any airline has operated direct flights from Australasia to Türkiye, a destination that straddles Europe and Asia and has a special connection to Australia through Gallipoli.  Moreover, TK’s arrival marks the return of a mainland European carrier to Australia, with British Airways the only other European airline to operate flights Down Under (Sydney-London via Singapore).  The new service will operate three times per week via Singapore (departing Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday) until the arrival of new long-range aircraft in Turkish’s fleet makes it possible to fly the route non-stop.  While the Istanbul-based carrier utilised its B777 aircraft for its inaugural flight to Tulllamarine, it intends to use its B787 Dreamliners and flagship A350s on the route from later this month. 

Downward pressure on fares?

With the arrival of Turkish Airlines, Melbourne Airport is now served by a record 39 international carriers – and its CEO, Lorie Argus, is understandably excited by its debut. “Turkish Airlines has an extensive network and flies to more countries than any other airline so this new competitor in the Australian market is fantastic news for consumers,” she said. “We’ve worked closely with the Victorian State Government to bring Turkish Airlines to Melbourne, and we now look forward to growing their services over the coming years.” Argus also expects the extra capacity will help lower airfares “which will ensure Victorian residents and businesses can stay connected with family, friends and clients around the world”.



Turkish Airlines lands at Melbourne Airport.

“Melbourne is proudly home to the largest Turkish population in Australia, so we expect these flights will prove particularly popular with people looking to visit friends and relatives,” she added. Victorian Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins said international air travel out of Melbourne “continues to go from strength to strength”. “With more airlines choosing Melbourne as their destination of choice, we’re boosting tourism, trade, international education, business connections and local jobs,” she remarked. Meanwhile, Minister for Small Business Natalie Suleyman said the new flights would help tourism and trade, create jobs and support small businesses.

Long-anticipated arrival

Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee Dr Ahmet Bolat said the carrier’s arrival fulfilled a long-held ambition to fly to the Australian continent. 

“This achievement follows meticulous planning and extensive infrastructure developments, symbolising the successful bridging of Istanbul with a new and vibrant continent,” he said.

“The inauguration of our Melbourne route is a testament to our growing influence in the Asia-Pacific region and underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering connections between diverse cultures and communities across the globe.

“Through our unparalleled network, we are thrilled to offer our guests a gateway to global exploration, ensuring that our legacy of exceptional service quality continues to flourish in every corner of the world.”

Celebrating at Melbourne Airport

Turkish Airlines announced its intention to fly to Australia in June last year, saying it would commence flights in December 2023. After stalling on its Aussie launch, it then confirmed a start date of 16 March 2024, before finally bringing forward flights by two weeks to 2 March.

And don’t expect the airline to stop with Melbourne. After Federal Transport Minister Catherine King approved a proposal from Türkiye in December, Turkish Airlines is authorised to operate up to 35 flights a week in and out of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Western Sydney airports by 2025.

So watch this space.

Langham Launches New Loyalty Program
29 Feb '24

Langham Hospitality Group has announced the launch of Brilliant by Langham, a new loyalty platform designed to meet the dynamic and evolving needs of its guests. 

Similar to both Accor Live Limitless and Marriott Bonvoy, the new program will reward members with not only stays, but also curated experiences.

Beyond traditional perks, Brilliant additionally allows for the introduction of personalised experiential offerings, from whimsical excursions and cultural immersions to unforgettable wellness and culinary delights. Examples of such offerings are said to include: 

• Private cooking lessons and dinners with celebrity chefs 
  
• Behind-the-scenes dance and musical performance encounters 
  
• Nature walks with guided mindfulness sessions 
  
• Off-the-beaten-path tours hosted by local guides 
  
• Traditional crafting workshops with seasoned artisans 
  
• Themed tea parties in picturesque locations 
  

Brilliant will go live on 29th February 2024  and thereafter serve as Langham sole loyalty program. It replaces the group’s existing loyalty programs, Langham Supper Club and 1865 Privilege by Langham, both of which will cease to operate on 28th February.

Members from the closing programs will have their past loyalty rewarded with an invitation to join Brilliant at higher starting membership tiers. 

Analysis of the new Brilliant program will follow, once the T&C's have been released.

Qatar Airways Holidays launch fan packages for the Formula 1
21 Feb '24

Qatar Airways, the Global Partner and Official Airline of F1, in partnership with Qatar Airways Holidays, announced on 19 February the launch of its fan packages for the upcoming FIA Formula One World Championship.

The packages allow fans travelling from more than 40 countries to be up-close to high-octane action and enjoy unique experiences. 

From the beginning to end of their journey, the packages are designed for fans to enjoy a seamless motorsport extravaganza, with the inclusion of return flights, hotel accommodation, F1 Paddock Club or Grandstand race tickets, and return airport transfers for all global races (excluding Qatar). Packages are available for purchase at: qatarairways.com/f1. 

Similar to the inaugural packages, this year’s fan packages include an array of flexible and competitively priced options for select F1® 2024 race destinations. 

This year, fans are also encouraged to experience guided track tours, pit lane walks and more with the F1® Paddock Club™ packages, featuring savings of up to 20 per cent on global race packages.

One of the best spots to watch the action, offering world-class cuisine and free-flowing beverages, the Paddock Club™ is the pinnacle of F1® hospitality.


Qatar Airways Privilege Club members

In addition, Qatar Airways Privilege Club members can collect Avios and Qpoints on all fan packages, accumulating rewards to use towards future travel and experiences while helping them retain and quickly reach their next tier.

Members can also purchase their package using Cash + Avios. 

Alternatively, members can bid for the packages using Avios.
How will the Formula 1 deals work?

Packages have been secured for the following races:

• Melbourne Grand Prix, 24th March (now open for bidding)
• Miami Grand Prix, 5th May
• Monaco Grand Prix, 26th May
• British Grand Prix, 7th July
• Las Vegas Grand Prix, 24th November
• Qatar Grand Prix, 1st December

The Privilege Club Collection website is only open for bidding on the Melbourne Grand Prix at the moment, so we don’t know exactly what will be available for each race.

However, each package will include two Paddock Club™ VIP passes and hotel accommodation for the entire race period, usually three days. Paddock Club is the highest level of hospitality available and includes track tours and pit lane walks.
How can you bid for Privilege Club experiences?

Privilege Club Collection will eventually have a mix of ‘buy it now’ and auction experiences, although everything currently listed is for auction.

Here are two very important points to note:

(1)  You must have Avios in a Qatar Airways Privilege Club account before you can bid. It is NOT good enough to have Avios in say a British Airways Executive Club account which is linked to your Qatar Airways Privilege Club account. You must have physically moved Avios across to your Qatar Airways Privilege Club account.

(One snag here is that you can’t use the entire balance of a British Airways Executive Club household account to bid. The only Avios you can move into a Qatar Airways Privilege Club account are those in your own personal account. If you have 200,000 Avios and your partner has 50,000 Avios to give you a household balance of 150,000 Avios, the most you could use to bid for a single Privilege Club Collection auction is 200,000 – ie your own balance.)

(2)  You must have enough Avios in your Qatar Airways Privilege Club account to match your maximum bid. You cannot bid more than your current Avios balance, and you cannot set a future auto-bid which is higher than your balance. Transfers are free, instant and can be reversed at any time.

Travellers passing through Melbourne Airport can now access short stays with use of amentities.
17 Feb '24

Travellers passing through Melbourne Airport, Australia’s busiest 24/7 hub, now have instant access to hourly hotel stays.

Following it's recent refurbishment, the PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport, the only hotel connected to the domestic and international terminals via a sky-bridge, is now offering short-stay hourly accommodation.. 

Bookable online or by phone, short stays at the hotel are available in three, five and eight-hour blocks, from $109, $119 and $149 respectively – significantly less than rooms at nightly rates.

Whether it’s to catch up on some sleep, freshen up or just chill for a few hours, travellers can access newly refurbished rooms with city or airport views, a 24-hour gymnasium, heated indoor pool, spa, sauna and steam room. 

Other amenities include the modern Australian restaurant, Airo, the casual Airo Café for coffee and light snacks, and Airo Bar for boutique beers, regional wines and specialty cocktails (and no doubt conversation with fellow flyers).

PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport boasts 276 rooms including eight suites and eight family rooms.


Loyalty Program

The PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport participates in the GHA Discovery loyalty program.


Our thoughts

The suites and family rooms are a great idea for families travelling at hours that little ones do not cope well with, or after long international flights with broken sleep, enabling you to refresh prior to moving on more refreshed. 




A room at the PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport

Bali imposes tourist tax from Valentines Day 2024
15 Feb '24

A tourist tax of 150,000 Indonesian Rupiah (approx GBP 8 or USD 12) oer person has been introduced for foreign travellers to Bali effective from 14 February 2024..

The levy aims to raise funds to protect the culture and natural environment of the Indonesian island.

A ‘Love Bali’ initiative by the island’s provincial government has created a development plan to be funded by the tax.

“The goal is to preserve the integrity and balance of Bali’s nature, its people, and their culture,” a statement said.

“As a form of support that aims to protect the customs, traditions, arts and culture, and local wisdom of the Balinese people, Bali will impose [a] levy for the international tourist.

“Efforts and innovations will continue to be made for maintenance the culture and the natural environment in Bali. There will also continue to be an improvement in the quality of services.”

The levy is described “as a form of support, towards the efforts to preserve the nature and culture of Bali”.

It comes as the regional authority continues to make “various progressive efforts and innovations related to improving Bali’s quality of the nature and culture through preservation, conservation and revitalisation.”

The proceeds will also go towards improving “the quality of services, safety, and comfort of tourists, by developing land, sea and air infrastructure in an integrated and connected manner”.

Payment can be made online or on arrival at designated payment counters at Bali’s airport and seaport.

Awayz: Flights cash vs points comparison released soon
21 Jan '24

Awayz is a great tool which we use and recommend for our readers to find whether booking a stay is better value through paying cash or by redeeming points.


We are excited to say that Awayz will soon offer a similar feature for flights of Air France and Virgin Atlantic (good for European travel) and the North American majors of Air Canada, American, Delta and United.

This video shows how easy it is to compare miles and cash for planned flights and book accommodation.

This new capability will soon be launched via Twitter and Instagram. Once released the Awayz Premium price will increase by approximately 50% to accommodate all the new offerings we are adding with flights and many more new hotel features.

However, all current Premium users and new users who sign up for Premium before launch will get flights for free, not just for the first year, but for every year in the future!

A really useful tool will soon be doubly useful.  So use this link to sign up for a Premium Subscription (advertiser) to lock in this bargain !

For our readers, Awayz is offering a promotional offer of free 72-hour trial of Premium plus a US$10 discount off the annual subscription and you will keep that rate forever, as long as you renew the subscription each year.

That's an annual subscription for US$89.99 (excludes tax) for as long as you maintain this special subscription.

The best value is in the Annual Premium tier - at a discount to the already discounted annual rate (an overall discount of 37.5%). To take advantage of the offer either use the link above, or enter the code pointsnplaces on the Packages page on their website awayz.com.

Happy bargain hunting !

Virgin Australia adds 17 regional domestic routes
19 Jan '24

A new agreement with Link Airways will see Virgin Australia grow its regional footprint by 45 per cent - 90 new flights on 17 domestic routes

The partnership will benefit Velocity Frequent Flyer’s nearly 12 million members, allowing them to earn Points and Status Credits on Link Airways-operated codeshare flights by Virgin Australia. Platinum, Gold and Silver members will earn bonus Points and extra baggage allowance, while eligible members can also access Virgin lounges. 

Thanks to the new arrangement, Virgin Australia flyers can now book travel to 42 Australian destinations, including Inverell, Wollongong and Biloela, with through check-in and baggage transfer, a first for these locations.

"...the partnership is set to support regional trade and tourism in destinations like Inverell, Wollongong and Biloela, which are not currently serviced by any other major airline" stated Virgin Australia Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Alistair Hartley

“....Together, our networks will be operating up to 365 daily flights across Australia, offering 42 domestic destinations for guests to explore, all while ensuring guests can enjoy seamless connectivity and loyalty benefits under our award-winning Velocity Frequent Flyer program when they travel.” 

New regional routes available as Virgin Australia codeshare: 

• Brisbane <> Coffs Harbour (BNE-CFS)
• Brisbane <> Bundaberg (BNE-BDB)
• Brisbane <> Biloela (BNE-ZBL)
• Brisbane <> Inverell (BNE-IVR)
• Brisbane <> Narrabri (BNE-NAA)
• Brisbane <> Dubbo (BNE-DBO)
• Brisbane <> Orange (BNE-OAG)
• Brisbane <> Tamworth (BNE-TMW)
• Brisbane <> Armidale (BNE-ARM)
• Brisbane <> Wollongong (BNE-WOL)
• Sydney <> Narrabri (SYD-NAA)
• Sydney <> Inverell (BNE-IVR)
• Melbourne <> Dubbo (MEL-DBO)
• Melbourne <> Orange (MEL-OAG)
• Melbourne <> Wollongong (MEL-WOL)
• Canberra <> Hobart (CBR-HBA)
• Canberra <> Newcastle (CBR-NTL).

Marriott changes Bonvoy Suite Night Awards - and not only the name
12 Jan '24

Marriott Bonvoy has rolled out some changes to what were formerly known as Suite Night Awards.

Like other hotel chains, Marriott offers confirmable upgrades to elite members who've earned them. These allow guests to confirm an upgrade on the room they've booked before check-in, which can be an extremely valuable benefit.

Now, however, Marriott Bonvoy has rolled out changes to what were formerly known as Suite Night Awards — giving them a new name and adjusting how they work.

Here's everything you need to know about the updates and debut of Nightly Upgrade Awards.

Suite Night Awards Are Now Nightly Upgrade Awards

Now known as Nightly Upgrade Awards, Bonvoy members who earn Platinum Elite status can choose this benefit as an Annual Choice Benefit. Doing so grants five Nightly Upgrade Awards, which can be used one night each to confirm an upgrade to a premium room or better. The upgrade may or may not be to a suite, so the name change truthfully reflects what the benefit is good for. Marriott elite members also can choose five more upgrade awards once they've reached Titanium Elite status. Some US-issued credit cards associated with Marriott also provide what are now NUA's. But there's a bit more to the update than just a new name. There are also a few more changes to make note of:

• Nightly Upgrade Awards are usable at additional brands, including Aloft, EDITION, Element, Protea Hotels, and The Ritz-Carlton.  (1)
• More room types are available for Nightly Upgrade Award redemptions.
• Rooms will be confirmed three days in advance, rather than five.
• 20% more rooms are accessible for use with the Nightly Upgrade Award.

Is This a Positive Change?

There's an argument to be made for both sides when determining whether this is a positive change for members. Most of the time, when a program makes a change to the benefits it offers, it's negative. And there are certainly some negative changes here.

Moving the confirmation date from five days before check-in to three days before check-in reduces the chance of an upgrade. After all, this gives the hotel more time to sell these rooms before releasing them to you. 

That said, many members struggled to use their Suite Night Awards, and they expired unused. Adding more inventory for upgrades — even if it's not as nice of an upgrade as you'd hope — is certainly better than letting the awards expire.

This definitely can make a difference in elite-heavy destinations like Hawaii, where an upgrade to an oceanfront room with a balcony wouldn't necessarily be a “suite” but a palatable “premium” room.

Our Thoughts

We don't usually like it when loyalty programs make changes — especially since they tend to be bad for the member and the term "Bonvoyed" wasn't coined for nothing..

But in this case, Marriott Bonvoy changing its Suite Night Awards to Nightly Upgrade Awards is a mixed bag. More brands (especially Ritz-Carlton) and the increase in room types and numbers are certainly welcome changes.  But limiting  confirmed upgrades to just three days in advance (rather than the current 5 days) will reduce the chances of the upgrade being available at any of the more popular properties or during periods of high demand..

Swings and roundabouts.

Footnotes:

(1) NUA's can be used at all Bonvoy participating properties except:

• All-Inclusive Resorts
• Bulgari
• Design Hotels
• Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy®
• Marriott Executive Apartments
• Marriott Vacation Club
• Marriott Grand Residence Club
• The Ritz-Carlton Club
• Ritz-Carlton Reserve
• The Ritz-Carlton Residences
• The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Sebel to open in the Heart of Sydney
11 Jan '24

THE SEBEL recently announced its latest property in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, which is  is open for bookings now.

The newly curated premium hotel is currently undergoing a multi-million-dollar refurbishment, the current Mercure branded property and promising to bring a new essence of style and sophistication to the city.

Located on Philip Street, the 86-room Sebel Sydney Martin Place's luxurious, modern interior will offer a tranquil retreat with an essence of opulence. 

The location is very central, within easy walking distance of the Sydney Tower Eys, the Domain, QVB, The Strand Arcade and of course Martin Place.

This year, The Sebel is proudly celebrating its 60th anniversary in Australia and New Zealand and now has 34 properties across Australasia.

Both the Sebel and Mercure are brands of Accor.  The property will participate in the  Accor Live Limitless (or Accor ALL) loyalty program and the perks specific to the APAC region.

For more information or to make a booking, contact our associated Travel Agency Rewarding Travel, to learn what complimentary perks are available when you book.  Rewarding Travel is an Accor Step agency.

Kimpton Secret Password - Jan/Feb 2024
6 Jan '24

Kimpton Hotels have a funky boutique hotel brand image. One of many aspects of its charm is the Kimpton secret password  that guests can mention at check-in to get a perk, benefit, or bonus.

This (northern) Winter, Kimpton Hotels is using the secret password "Chalet all day.” It is valid at all participating locations until February 29th, 2024. Kimpton Hotels have stated that every hotel honors the secret password differently, so it's a surprise what you'll get.

Secret Password Perks You May Receive

Historically, guests have reported a wide range of bonuses when using the Kimpton Hotels' secret password. Here are some examples:

• Free parking (regular or valet)
• Complimentary breakfast
• Free upgrade
• Complimentary bottle of wine
• Free food & beverage credits
• A whisky-tasting tour
• Cupcakes
• A movie night in your room
• Free drinks at the bar
• Surprise gift-wrapped presents
• Drink kits (like Bailey's hot chocolate)
• Mini-bar credit

The bonuses aren't always at the hotel, as some hotels have partnered with other companies. For example, such as another restaurant or perhaps a whisky distillery. It's  nice to see the Kimpton secret password is back. It's just a little thing, but adds to the vibe of the Kimpton brand, which I like.

MEL-SYD remains the 5th busiest air route in the world
22 Dec '23

The Melbourne-Sydney route is the 5th busiest in the world, according to data from OAG. 

There were 9,342,312 two-way trips completed on the MEL-SYD route, during 2023.  This was a reduction by 6% from 2022 numbers.

The busiest route globally is once again between Seoul’s Gimpo Airport (GMP) and Jeju (CJU) off the coast of the Korean Peninsula.
The second- and third-busiest routes are both Japanese domestic flights, with Hokkaido’s Chitose Airport (CTS)-Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) taking second on 11.9 million seats, followed by Fukuoka (FUK)-Tokyo Haneda with 11.3 million seats.
Hanoi (HAN) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) is the fourth-busiest route globally with 10.9 million seats.

There were no international routes in the top 10.

For the international routes, 9 of the top 10 busiest routes were lin Asia. The only route in the top 10 international routes not to involve an origin or destination in the Asia-Pacific or Middle East regions was between New York John F. Kennedy International Airport and London Heathrow Airport (JFK-LHR), which ranks as the eighth busiest.


Read More…

Retreev your lost luggage more easily
22 Dec '23

With so many people travelling on flights during the festive season and the rush to get to destinations, it is easy for your luggage to be misplaced (or stolen)..

Luggage tags used to be a good idea, but these days than can be examined by unscrupulous people to identify homes that may be empty and provide opportunity for theft.

Tracking devices work well in helping you locate an item that is misplaced, but have batteries than can run down.  They also can alert people to your own location (not always wanted) and are easily removed by thieves who rummage through stolen luggage and take only what they want (your valuables).  Trackers also do not help people who find your luggage to reach out to you to help return it to you.

A new tool helps people to find owners of misplaced luggage, without revealing the owners' location.

Retreev is a luggage tag that instead of showing your address details, has a QR code that can be scanned by the finder of the luggage (or a lost and found) then contacts Retreev, who then contacts you. so you can arrange to collect your luggage while your privacy is protected. 

While it won't stop thieves from taking your luggage, it can help you retrieve it - hopefully not stolen, but intact and from a good samaritan or the lost-and-found department of an airline or airport.

There are no batteries and no subscription fees - just a one-off purchase price.  We like this idea and are promoting it through our Retreev affiliate link which provides you with a 15% discount sitewide. There are 35 variations that add a little fun personalisation to your tag. 

Happy and safe travels!

Virgin Hotels Glasgow closes its doors
22 Dec '23

Sadly, the Virgin Hotel Glasgow has closed its doors. (Pictured is its lobby area)

The company that owns the property was placed into administration on 1 December 2023 and since then Virgin has been unable to negotiate a solution with the administrator that would keep the hotel running.

No other Virgin hotel is impacted – all other Virgin Hotels remain open and operating as normal as all Virgin Hotels are independently owned.

On the brighter side, in a statement released by Virgin Hotels on they say that  "the Virgin Hotels team continues to have great ambitions for managing the hotel in Glasgow and looks forward to re-opening once a new owner is in place".

We hope the closure will be a short one and the property will re-open sooner rather than later.

Our thoughts are with the staff and employees who are affected at this time.  

We have no open bookings with our clients with the property, but for anyone else with immediate enquiries, you are asked to contact info.glasgow@virginhotels.com

Iberostar Beachside Resorts now bookable with IHG One Rewards
19 Dec '23

In june 2023, IHG Hotels & Resorts announced that Iberostar Beachfront Resorts would participate in the IHG One Rewards program. This development meant earning points on Iberostar stays and applying elite benefits to all-inclusive stays.

Overnight, IHG announced that IHG One Rewards members can now redeem points for stays at 40+ Iberostar resorts worldwide.

At first glance, award rates are pretty steep. Cash rates for Iberostar properties are high, reflecting tr fact that the resorts are all-inclusive. Award redemption rates match; this is also likely a function of IHG's dynamic pricing model.

If one of these properties catches your eye but doesn't fit your budget, IHG does offer a Points & Cash booking option, which could take the sting of a stay at one of these resorts.

IHG One Rewards benefits at Iberostar properties

Not every Iberostar property participates in the IHG One Rewards program, but if you are a member and book any of the Iberostar Beachfront Resorts participating in One Rewards  you'll enjoy the following benefits by booking through IHG’s websites, IHG Customer Care, Iberostar website, IberostarPro, or directly with an IHG branded hotel.

• Late check-out: Available to all members up to 2 p.m, subject to availability.
• Free internet: Available for all IHG One Rewards members.

Other benefits associated with tier status are also honoured, including:

• Early check-in: Subject to availability for Platinum and Diamond members.
• Guaranteed room availability: Available for Platinum and Diamond Elite members.
• Welcome amenity at check-in: Available for Platinum and Diamond Elite members as follows:
  • Platinum Elite members receive a $15 hotel credit or 600 IHG One Rewards points.
  • Diamond Elite members receive a $20 hotel credit or 600 IHG One Rewards points.
• Priority check-in: Available at all participating hotels.

Our thoughts:

This is a great development for One Rewards members.One Rewards is a good program for accumulating points and now there are attractive, all-inclusive options located in Spain, Portugal, Brazil, Mexico and the Caribbean.for redeeming those points. Just ensure you are getting good value for your points. Our associated Travel Agency Rewarding Travel is an IberostarPro agency. 

Australian Passport price to jump 15%
14 Dec '23

The cost of a new Australian passport will reach nearly $400 next year after the Federal government announced a price increase in its recent mid-year budget update.

From 1 July 2024, the cost of obtaining an Australian passport(already the most expensive passport among OECD nations) will rise by 15 per cent.

The price hike is on top of a routine consumer price index rise, which if applied at September’s annual CPI rate of 5.4 per cent would see the cost of an adult 10-year passport grow from $325 to about $394 in mid-2024, Australian Associated Press reported.

The government predicts the measure will raise $349 million over three years, with the extra funds to be redirected to other priorities within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) portfolio.

It added that Australian passport holders currently enjoy visa-free access to over 100 countries.

“The Australian passport is respected internationally as a high-quality travel document … it has a high level of technological sophistication, backed by rigorous anti-fraud measures, which ensures its integrity.”

News of the passport price rise follows the announcement of an increase in the Passenger Movement Charge (PMC) from $60 to $70 in the Federal Budget earlier in 2023.

Our view

After years of suffering from travel restrictions, just as travel demand is starting to recover to pre_Covid levels, the Federal Government has decided to slug international travellers with a price hike that is nearly 3x the rate of inflation.,This can only be seen as price gouging by the goverment.

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth to undergo $60 million internal room redesign
12 Dec '23

New owners of the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Hotel will spend $60 million on a transformation of the iconic semi-circular property which will see its heritage retained whilst offering a state-of-the-art comfort and guest experience.

Work will begin in January 2024 and conclude at an as-yet undetermined point in 2Q2024, with all 436 guest rooms and suites to be completely redesigned with new colours, furniture and technology to be installed.

The project’s objective is to offer guests greater comfort and style while maintaining the property’s distinctive heritage façade and feel.

In addition, the hotel’s corridors, club lounge and lobby will also be remodelled and updated, with owners also promising a “completely new world class dining precinct” which will reenergise the hotel’s restaurant and bar offerings.

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth sits within the city’s first five-star hotel, which opened as the Wentworth Hotel in 1966 and with its semi-circular footprint, has remained an iconic heritage feature of the city.

“The repositioning of the Sofitel will enhance the luxury services on offer and reinforce the value of the brand,” said.Sofitel Sydney Wentworth General Manager, Sam Panetta.

Our view

The Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Hotel is ideally placed in Sydney, within an easy 10 minute walk of luxury brand shopping (Martin Place), transport (Wynyard Rail station), the Botanic Gardens and the ferries of Circular Quay. The Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and historic Rocks area are all only a little further away.

The Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Hotel participates in the Accor Live Limitless loyalty program and our associated travel agency Rewarding Travel is an affiliate of Fora Travel Inc, a preferred partner and an accredited member of Accor STEP.

Virgin Australia to open direct flights to Uluru
11 Dec '23

In a boost to local tourism, Virgin Australia will be expanding its domestic network to include Uluru (sometimes referred to as Ayers Rock) with two new routes - Brisbane / Uluru & Melbourne / Uluru. 

First flights wlll commence 6 June 2024, with Virgin Australia (advertiser) bookings for MEL/AYQ and BNE/AYQ currently on sale from AUD 169 economy, one-way (T&C's apply).

The amount of Velocity points required is not yet known, but will be released later.

Direct flights from Melbourne and Brisbane are a great benefit for overseas tourists wishing to see this icon of Australia.

Six Senses Xala to open in 2026 - a new wellness on Mexico'spacific coast
7 Dec '23

Six Senses Xala to Offer a Restorative Coastal haven

Six Senses, part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts luxury and lifestyle portfolio, has signed a hotel management agreement with Activos Turisticos de Mexico (ACTUR) for the development of Six Senses Xala, which is scheduled to open in 2026.

Flanked by five miles of curving white-sand beach, the 3,000-acre terrain, located in the Costalegre or “Cheerful Coast” region of Jalisco, will offer both a sanctuary and a vibrant community among fragrant mango fields, coconut palms, pristine ocean, and the serene estuary waters of the Xola-Paramán.

Secluded within this verdant landscape, yet just 10 minutes from the new Chalacatepec International Airport, Six Senses Xala will offer emotional hospitality as nature intended to guests seeking adventure, rejuvenation, and reconnection. -

We love the Six Senses brand and its high-end, wellness-focussed resorts.  Roll on 2026 !

Brazil's new eVisa - important update for travellers with passports from Australia, US and Canada
7 Dec '23

Passport holders from the U.S., Canada and Australia will need the new e- visa to enter Brazil by air starting January 10, 2024. If you have a valid physical visa on your passport for the purpose of your visit, you do not need to apply for a new visa. 

For more detailed information and to apply click here.

Major news - Alaska Airlines to acquire Hawaiian Airlines
4 Dec '23

Alaska Airlines announced yesterday that it will acquire Hawaiian Airlines.  The surprise move, which is subject to regulatory approvals, would vault Alaska into international expansion with a fleet including long-haul widebody jets flying across the Pacific Ocean to destinations in Japan, Korea, Australia and New Zealand.  Honolulu will become a major hub for the combined airline.

Alaska CEO Ben Minicucci said in an interview. “We become a bigger competitor against the big four airlines, United, Delta, American and Southwest.”

The acquisition appears to be a good cultural fit, as Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are both known to have a deep commitment to caring for their employees, guests and communities.

The deal will also open up new opportunities for Alaska, through Hawaiian's membership of the Oneworld alliance.

More details are yet to be announced, but I would expect Alaska's loyalty program to remain intact, with that of Hawaiian being absorbed into it somehow.

This is exciting news for travellers located in east Asia and the Pacific regions. 

Umana Bali opens as Hilton’s first LXR Hotels & Resorts property in SE Asia
29 Nov '23

The 72-villa Umana Bali opens, representing Hilton’s first luxury offering in South East Asia under its LXR Hotels & Resorts portfolio.

Introducing Umana Bali, Hilton's first luxury property in Southeast Asia under the LXR Hotels & Resorts portfolio.

This stunning resort is located on the southern tip of Bali, offering breathtaking views of Melasti Beach and the Indian Ocean. The unique design of the property, with its terraces of limestone cliffs, is reminiscent of ancient rice paddy fields known as 'uma.'

The Resort

The resort features spacious one-bedroom villas with private pools and outdoor hot tubs, perfect for a luxurious getaway.

For larger groups or families, the three-bedroom Umana Pool Villa offers a 25-meter infinity pool and personalized butler service.

The resort also boasts a clifftop chapel for romantic sunset weddings, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a kids' club.

Wellness at the Spa

Guests can indulge in ancient healing practices and modern therapies at The Lohma Spa, including the signature Indonesian massage using energized gemstones.

Dining

The dining options at Umana Bali are exceptional, with over 80% of the ingredients sourced from local farms and their own hydroponic garden. Mediterranean cuisine can be enjoyed at the clifftop restaurant, Oliverra, while Commune offers South East Asian dishes with interactive cooking demonstrations.

The Pad Pool Bar serves handcrafted cocktails overlooking the ocean, and Mer Lounge allows guests to create their own refreshments from the minibar.

Coming soon

Coming in April 2024, Uma Beach House will offer a Miami-inspired design and delectable Peruvian cuisine.

Hilton Honors

Umana Bali is proud to be part of Hilton Honors, providing guests with even more benefits and rewards for their stay.

To further enhance this offer, book through Rewarding Travel to receive complimentary perks at no additional cost.  Rewarding Travel is our associated Travel Agency and is an affiliate of Fora Travel Inc.

Meliá to open spectacular Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah in Port de La Mer 4Q2025
18 Nov '23

The Gran Meliá brand continues to lead the group's luxury openings in Europe and the Middle East

Introducing Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah - the epitome of Mediterranean luxury and "good living" in the heart of Dubai. Nestled on the pristine beachfront of Port de La Mer, this urban resort is set to redefine your Dubai travel experience.

Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of turquoise waters and the iconic city skyline from your exclusive room or suite. With 380 luxurious accommodations designed for utmost comfort and style, Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah offers a true sanctuary amidst the bustling city.

But it's not just about stunning vistas. This 360-degree resort boasts an array of leisure and lifestyle options that will satisfy even the most discerning travellers. Indulge in the taste of Mediterranean luxury as you savour exquisite cuisine at iconic restaurants and bars, curated to offer you the best experiences from around the world.

The location couldn't be more perfect. Situated close to the prestigious DIFC, Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah is not only ideal for leisure travellers but also attracts corporate guests and events alike, making it a versatile destination for all occasions.

As a testament to its commitment to luxury tourism, Meliá Hotels International has partnered with Albwardy Investment LLC to bring you this extraordinary property. With an impeccable track record managing seven other properties together, including renowned destinations like Arusha, Zanzibar, Ngorongoro Lodge, Iguazu Falls, London Kensington, and Desert Palm – this collaboration promises nothing short of excellence.

Scheduled to open in late 2025, we anticipate Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah will be a world where Spanish lifestyle meets culinary avant-garde across ten countries globally.

Prepare yourself for an unmatched experience where personalised services, wellness facilities endorsed by international partners, direct marina access, and event spaces capable of hosting up to 1,000 people come together seamlessly. Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah is set to become an iconic destination that embodies the spirit of Mediterranean luxury throughout the region. 

Keep an eye out for the opening of Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah and get ready to embark on a journey through this gateway to an extraordinary experience in Dubai. Get ready to immerse yourself in pure luxury at Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah.

This should be an exciting addition to the Dubai travel landsacpe.  We expect it to participate in Meliá Rewards, which will making any stay even more rewarding!

Hilton Named No. 1 Best Place to Work in the World
17 Nov '23

Recognition marks the first time a hospitality company has ever topped this prestigious list

For the first time ever, Hilton has been named the No. 1 World’s Best Workplace by Fortune magazine and Great Place to Work.   Our congratulations to all involved!

This recognition – the culmination of eight consecutive appearances on the “World’s Best” list – also marks the first time a hospitality company has achieved the top honor in this best-in-class program. Since first earning a spot on this list in 2016, Hilton has continued to build its strong culture through an unwavering focus on creating a workplace that is inclusive, offers strong growth opportunities, is driven by purpose, and provides the kind of support that empowers its 460,000 team members around the world to thrive each and every day.  

“Around the world at Hilton, our 460,000 team members are united by a common purpose: to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality. That purpose was formed more than a century ago, when Conrad Hilton set out to change the world through travel. He built this company on the noble premise that Hilton could be a force for good in the world, and famously urged us all to think big, act big, and dream big,” said Chris Nassetta, president and CEO, Hilton.

“Today’s recognition by Great Place to Work and Fortune is validation that our team members were the people he imagined in his bright vision for the future. It is their dedication, hospitality and passion for the stays they create that has made Hilton the No. 1 best place to work in the world.” 

Hilton is dedicated to building an inclusive culture that supports team members at every stage of their personal and professional journey and empowers each of them to bring their true, authentic self to work.  

The hospitality company provides best-in-class benefits to both hourly and salaried team members, including expanded parental leave, adoption assistance and exciting travel benefits through its popular Go Hilton team member travel program. 

World’s best ski brands of 2023 announced
14 Nov '23

World Ski Awards – the only global initiative to recognise and reward excellence in ski tourism – has revealed the winners of its 11th annual programme.  

Winners include Europe’s highest ski resort, Val Thorens, named ‘World’s Best Ski Resort’, thanks to a raft of pioneering new initiatives and facilities, plus its winning combination of snowsure pistes and extensive slopeside accommodation.  This is the 8th time in 11 years it has won which reflects the passion that consumers have for Val Thorens,given they’re actively involved in the selection process.

Sleek urban design amid a spectacular mountain setting helped W Verbier to capture ‘World’s Best Ski Hotel’, whilst compatriot Chalet Zermatt Peak claimed ‘World’s Best Ski Chalet’.

Distinctive Japanese alpine design and lavish ‘six-star’ comforts helped HakuVillas to the title for ‘World’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel’. And in another strong showing for Japan, Setsu Niseko emerged victorious as ‘World’s Best New Ski Hotel’.

Etoile du Nord, the hottest new address in Val d’Isère, claimed top honours, with East Wing (one of its two adjoining chalets) named ‘World’s Best New Ski Chalet’.

Switzerland’s LAAX, with its vast freeriding possibilities, was named ‘World’s Best Freestyle Resort’. Ski Dubai picked up ‘World’s Best Indoor Ski Resort’.

The results follow a year-long search for the world’s leading ski travel, tourism and hospitality brands. Votes were cast by ski industry professionals and ski consumers, with the nominee gaining the most votes in a category named the winner.

Sunweb won ‘World’s Best Ski Tour Operator’ and Snow Cab taking ‘World’s Best Ski Transfer Operator’.

The harmonious mix of architecture and nature helped LAAX’s rocksresort to the title for ‘World’s Best Green Ski Hotel’. Northern Escape Heli-Skiing collected ‘World’s Best Heli-Ski Operator’. The pan-European dominance of Compagnie des Alpes was acknowledged with the award for ‘World’s Best Ski Resort Group’. The state-of-the-art facilities of Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel led to its recognition as ‘World’s Best Ski Resort Company’.

Sion Rapson, Managing Director, World Ski Awards, says: “Winning a World Ski Award signifies reaching the summit of ski hospitality. I congratulate our select group of winners for all their hard work, fortitude and unswerving commitment to excellence. This year we received a record number of votes from ski tourism consumers all around the world – most encouraging on the eve of the upcoming season. This signifies a rebound for the global industry and a return to pre-pandemic levels of interest and engagement.”

New study ranks 2023's best luxury hotel brands in the world
9 Nov '23

Mandarin Oriental (one of my personal favourite brands) was recently named the best luxury hotel brand in the world.Source: LTI — Luxury Travel Intelligence.

Our congratulations to Mandarin Oriental  and all the nominees!

There are rankings of the best hotels in the world, but this list, released by the members-only group LTI – Luxury Travel Intelligence, ranks hotel brands rather than individual properties. The ranking analyses many hotels within a brand in “granular detail,” using more than 100 “touch points” to evaluate “a brand’s ability to deliver,” ranging from its ethos to staff, according to a press release.

When announcing the rankings, LTI noted that "Mandarin Oriental has always performed well in LTI's ratings. This year, they have improved further across all our touch points, placing them at No1.

It is an engaging brand with a loyal and growing following, who appreciate its commitment to excellence"   (including us - it is a long-term favourite),  "...the much-anticipated opening of their London Mayfair property could be a pivotal moment for them."

Luxury Travel Intelligence memberships cost $700 per year and grant access to the group’s travel research. It doesn’t sell advertising, and research is independent and funded by subscriptions, according to its website.


The best luxury hotel brands

Mandarin Oriental was recently named the best luxury hotel brand in the world by LTI — Luxury Travel Intelligence. There are other rankings of the best hotels in the world, however,this list, released by the members-only group LTI – Luxury Travel Intelligence, ranks hotel brands rather than individual properties. The ranking analyzes many hotels within a brand in “granular detail,” using more than 100 “touch points” to evaluate “a brand’s ability to deliver,” ranging from its ethos to staff, according to a press release. Luxury Travel Intelligence memberships cost US$700 per year and grant access to the group’s travel research. It doesn’t sell advertising, and research is independent and funded by subscriptions, according to its website.


2023's best luxury hotel brands

Here are this year’s results, reflected as percentages, with last year’s positions in brackets:

1. Mandarin Oriental    81.4% (2)
2. Oetker Collection     81.3% (6)
3. Auberge                    79.6% (4)
4. Six Senses                79.0% (1)
5. Aman                         78.8% (5)
6. Belmond                   76.3% (8)
7. Four Seasons           76.1% (9)
8. One&Only                 75.1% (7)
9. Rocco Forte              73.8% (11)
10. Rosewood                 72.1% (3)
11. Peninsula                  69.8% (New Entry)
12. Raffles                      68.5% (New Entry)

Mandarin Oriental took the top spot for the first time, — topping Oetker Collection by a very narrow margin, despite Ortker's  ranking rising by 4 places. Oetker Collection operates 12 hotels across the globe, including the icons Le Bristol in Paris, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, France, and The Lanesborough, London.

In 2022, Six Senses was ranked No. 1, followed by Mandarin Oriental (No. 2) and Rosewood (No. 3). So two of last years leaders have fallen a surprising number of spots - Six Senses has dropped 3 places and Rosewood has dropped 7 positions.

Auberge Resorts Collection — ranked third on the list — operates hotels like Mauna Lani in Hawaii, The Lodge at Blue Sky in Park City, Utah, and The Vanderbilt in Newport, Rhode Island. Those are just three of the 27 hotels and resorts under the Auberge brand.

Two well-known brands are new to the list this year: Peninsula Hotels and Raffles Hotels & Resorts.


Other recognized brands

LTI also highlighted other brands that it said “rated sufficiently” enough to be monitored. The brands are: 1 Hotels, Alila, Anantara, Banyan Tree, Como, Dorchester Collection, Firmdale, Jumeirah, Leela, Oberoi, Park Hyatt, Ritz-Carlton, Shangri-La, Soho House, Red Carnation, St. Regis, Taj, The Luxury Collection and Viceroy.

Additionally, brands that have fewer than 10 properties — the minimum required to make the list — but were rated highly are: Airelles, Althoff Collection, Bulgari, Capella, Cheval Blanc, JK Place, La Reserve, Maybourne, Montage, Nikki Beach, Pendry, Soneva, Ultima Collection and Virgin Limited Edition.

Our associated Travel Agency - Rewarding Travel has a preferred relationship status with 10 of the top 12 brands and over half of the brands that rated special mentions. To see what makes them so special and how we can make your stay even more luxe at no additional cost, contact Rewarding Travel to discuss your preferences.


The scoring system

Luxury Travel Intelligence uses an algorithm to assess hotel brands, which has a maximum of 4,663 points, said Crompton.

This year, it measured 130 “touch points,” evaluating factors like in-room dining, guests’ pre-arrival process and a brand’s social media engagement, Crompton told CNBC Travel. The group uses a points-based system to remove “inevitable emotiveness and personal opinion” from the ranking, he said.

Crompton also noted that brands’ investments — either in new hotels or in the renovation of existing ones — was a major factor this year.

Crompton did not reveal how touch points are weighted, but said that “each year we tweak the touch points and the weighting.”

.

Hyatt's enticing promotions
5 Nov '23

World of Hyatt has a few interesting promotions running at present. T&C's apply to all, so read carefully.

Ongoing promotion for new properties:

There's an ongoing promotion for World of Hyatt members to earn 500 bonus points per night at new properties.

North and South America:

• Book before December 5, 2023 using promo code STAYNOW; select the Bonus Points Offer rate.
• Complete the stay before April 30, 2024.
• Receive 2X bonus points (10 points per dollar instead of 5).
• Blackout dates apply, and not all hotels across North and South America are participating.

Asia Pacific & SW Asia

Save up to 20%, plus a further 5% for World of Hyatt members. Book by December 5, 2023 for stays completed by April 30, 2024.

Europe, Africa & Middle East

An even better offer - Save up to 20%, plus members enjoy an additional 5% savings and free breakfast.

Luxury hotel Regent Hong Kong officially (re)opened its doors on 8 November 2023
3 Nov '23

Regent Hong Kong, officially opened on 8 November after a considerable transformation from InterContinental Hong Kong.

Part of IHG Hotels & Resorts luxury and lifestyle portfolio, the 497-key hotel is located on the shore’s of Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour, surrounded by landmarks including K11 MUSEA, ‘Avenue of Stars,’ Art Square and the Hong Kong Museum of Art. 

“As one of Hong Kong’s legacy luxury hotels and host to generations of cherished memories, we are proud to officially launch Regent Hong Kong and ignite a new chapter of unforgettable moments for our guests,” said the hotel’s Managing Director, Michel Chertouh.

The 497-room hotel’s redesign was managed by renowned Hong Kong-born designer, Chi Wing Lo, as his first hotel project. Through his expertise in architecture, interior design, furniture and art curation, Lo has featured tactile natural materials throughout the hotel, including natural oak and granite crafted by skilled artisans.  

Tom Rowntree, Vice President Global Luxury & Lifestyle Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “As we open the doors to Regent Hong Kong, we celebrate not only a new chapter for the brand but also a journey back to the roots of luxury hospitality. With a legacy steeped in innovation, breathtaking views and landmark destinations like Regent Hong Kong, the brand is returning in earnest to redefine luxury once more,” said Rowntree.

IHG Hotels & Resorts acquired Regent in 2018, working to reinvigorate the brand.  Regent Hong Kong is a flagship property within the new Regent portfolio.  Other properties include Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel; Regent Chongqing, Regent Shanghai Pudong, Regent Phu Quoc, and the soon-to-open Regent Santa Monica Beach.

This Hong Kong opening will be followed closely by Regent Shanghai On The Bund in late 2023 and Regent Bali Canggu in 2024. 

About the hotel

• 497 guest rooms, including 129 suites.
• A new Presidential Suite features a sleek and sophisticated 3,500 square-foot duplex with a private terrace and infinity swimming pool, all with sweeping views of the harbour.  
• Six globally acclaimed culinary experiences within the hotel, including the two Michelin-starred Lai Ching Heen, The Steak House, The Lobby Lounge and Nobu Hong Kong
• The grand marble staircase previous guests may remember remains 
• The pillarless Regent Ballroom can host up to 1,000 guests
• ‘Regent Experience Agents’ are on hand to ensure a seamless guest experience
• The Regent Club is an exclusive sanctuary and luxury residential retreat for guests on level two.   
• The Pool Terrace and Fitness Centre includes an outdoor pool, three-temperature infinity pools overlooking the harbour, and a gym fitted with Technogym equipment and is open 24-hours.
• Guests will have access to IHG’s loyalty program, IHG One Rewards.Rates start from HK$6,000 (about AUD$1,192) per night (plus 10% service charge) for a Classic Harbourview Room.

For more information, visit Regent Hong Kong.

Qantas upgrading international routes
28 Oct '23

In an update to its international network, the flying kangaroo will introduce its B787 Dreamliner aircraft on the Sydney-Honolulu route for the first time. 

Replacing the current A330 used on the route, the upgauge will give passengers the broad choice of Economy, Premium Economy and Business cabins on the popular leisure route.

The announcement comes ahead of Qantas’ return to Shanghai this weekend after more than three years of ceased operations. 

Elsewhere, Qantas and Jetstar are preparing for several new and upgraded services over the next month as international demand continues to surge. Among these are: 

• New routes from Brisbane including Qantas to Wellington and Honiara and Jetstar to Tokyo (Narita)
• An increase between Sydney and New York (via Auckland) to four flights per week
• An increase of Jetstar’s Brisbane-Auckland service to daily flights
• An upgauge on QF’s Sydney-Bali flights, from a B737 to an A330
• Increased frequencies on Melbourne-Hong Kong, Singapore, and Los Angeles route
• Doubled frequencies to Tokyo, providing four daily Australia-Japan flights from November 26

ParkRoyal Melbourne receives major facelift
22 Oct '23

Located just a few steps from the MEL airport terminals, the hotel will soon unveil an ultra-modern redesign from floor to ceiling

The most upscale hotel at one of Australia’s major airports is undergoing a multi-million-dollar refurbishment to reflect Australian lifestyle and nature and aimed at transforming the ‘in-transit’ experience.

The work on Parkroyal Melbourne Airport is due for completion in December 2023 and involves all 276 rooms, the lobby, restaurant, café, bar and the meeting and events floor.

“This refurbishment will elevate the experience for guests staying at the hotel, as well as those attending our myriad business events,” said Parkroyal Melbourne Airport General Manager, Cameron Mead.

The picture illustrates the new clean, contemporary look.

“We are excited to welcome guests to discover our contemporary new interior design aesthetic which has been influenced by Melbourne’s unique personality and inspired by diverse Victorian aerial landscapes, from the city’s grid-style urban planning to the organic form of the Yarra River.” 

Located just 30 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD and directly across the road from Melbourne Airport’s terminals, the property is the only hotel directly connected to the domestic and international terminals via an undercover pedestrian skybridge.

Onsite amenities include modern Australian restaurant Airo, the Airo Café and Airo Bar, which offers boutique beers, regional wines and specialty cocktails.

A fully equipped 24-hour fitness centre, heated indoor lap pool, spa, sauna and steam room further enhance the guest experience.

Every piece of furniture will be custom designed using plush fabrics alongside luminous metal finishes in the newly refurbished rooms. To improve functionality, luggage access, hanging space and the minibar offering will all be enhanced.

Raffles London now open for bookings !
16 Oct '23

The much anticipated opening of Raffles London at the OWO has arrived!

Raffles London is located in what was the Old War Office building, known today as The OWO. It was once home to legends such as Sir Winston Churchill and Lord Haldane. It was also made famous by Ian Fleming, author of the James Bond 007 novels.

Imagine staying in a building once occupied by these people, who are such a part of British history and culture.

Located in the heart of Whitehall, near the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the building has been meticulously restored and is now home to Raffles London at The OWO.

The 120 spacious rooms and suites offer an experience of refined contemporary elegance and beauty, tall windows and timber-paneled walls provide a remarkable essence of place.

As you would expect from Raffles, gastronomy is well catered for with 9 restaurants and 3 bars offering a range of option, including a signature restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco..,

The Pillar Wellbeing centre provides spa and wellness services and has a 20m indoor pool - a rarity in London.

Raffles London at the OWO partcipates in the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) loyalty program. 

I say, is that an Aston Martin parked out front?

Are you one of the many flyers disappointed by Delta's recent SkyMiles changes? Maybe Alaska would be better for you.
2 Oct '23

Fed up with the recent changes to Delta SkyMiles?

For a limited time, Alaska Airlines is offering a promo for any Delta elite who’d like to transfer their membership ( and tier status) to Alaska!

For more details click this link - Alaska Airlines: Status Match into Mileage Plan

WorldHotels to benefit from BWH's plans to expand in upscale properties
30 Sep '23

BWH Hotels plans extended-stay, upscale growth

During the company’s annual convention at the Hawaii Convention Center this past week, senior leaders from BWH Hotels shared updates on the company’s expansion into the extended-stay, upper-upscale and luxury segments through two growing brands.

WorldHotels Nearly five years after acquiring the WorldHotels soft brand and expanding it into different categories, BWH is looking to change the collection’s narrative, Ron Pohl, president of WorldHotels and international operations at BWH Hotels, said during the general session. 

“We need to be more competitive,” Pohl told the attendees. “Today's travelers want unique experiences, and developers want to create their own vision and story for their hotel.” As such, the new “Welcome to our World” brand story for WorldHotels will serve as a “platform” for each property to help connect with guests, he said, emphasizing authenticity and local qualities. The company is also launching a new logo to increase the brand’s visibility and recognition with a W replacing the previous swirl, and an updated website aims to help streamline the booking process for guests. 

“One of the opportunities that we saw with WorldHotels is [that] in the past, it primarily competed as a distribution channel for hotels,” Pohl said during the press conference. “We believe it's an opportunity to have a real brand.” To make a compelling brand, however, “you have to have a story behind it and you have to have a reason customers want to engage with it.” While all the hotel stories will be different, he added, “they're all aligned with a story—that the customers want an experience that is different and unique at their hotel.” 

Extended-Stay

The company announced its new @Home by Best Western extended-stay brand at last year’s convention, noting that the brand, then called Home by BWH, would fit in the midscale segment and be “lean” in terms of investment and square footage.

“Our new extended-stay brand will allow us to capture our fair share of the extended-stay segment, which is expected to generate over $18 billion in revenue opportunity this year alone,” President and CEO Larry Cuculic said during the opening general session. “We're entitled to our fair share. We're a global powerhouse.”

During a press conference later in the convention, Brad LeBlanc, SVP and chief development officer at BWH Hotels, said that while the company has approximately 2,400 hotels in North America, “very little” of that inventory is in the extended-stay category. As developers seek to pour money into that segment, he continued, they are looking for green spaces to develop their next brand. “Best Western delivers that.”

The company has 25 @Home properties signed so far as well as two five-packs, one in the upper Midwest and one in the Southeast. “@Home delivers a product where the market is,” LeBlanc said. “We talk about it all the time: Meet the consumer. We're meeting that consumer. We're also meeting the developer, so it's a perfect interchange.”

LeBlanc noted “some competitive pressures” within the space. “A lot of people are chasing us into that segment, but you know what? With our green space and engine, it's a winning formula.” BWH Hotels members “want a piece of that segment,” he added, and are “diving in.” 

Joelle Park, BWH’s new SVP and chief marketing officer, noted that consumer demands are changing, and the new brand is “an exciting opportunity to capitalize … on an unmet customer need.” @Home will cater to a wider demographic than traditional business and leisure travelers, she continued. “What we'll do is mine for those opportunities and then find the moments to talk to [potential guests], where they know the value of what we bring to an extended-stay experience.” The brand has more than 30 properties in the pipeline. 

RIU Class earn and redeem abilitiy improved
6 Sep '23

RIU Hotels has updated some of the terms & conditions of its RIU Class loyalty program.

Members will now find it easier to earn and redeem points.

All members earn points for bookings made directly or via a travel agency or other channels. Extras charged to the room at RIU Plaza properties also earn points at the same fixed rates ( EUR 4 or  USD 6, or  GBP 3.6 = 1 point earned).
 
Earned points are automatically applied to a members folio at check-out, unless they elected to opt-out at check-in or via "My bookings", under the option "Request" at least 7 days in advance.  

Redemptions are also made at  fixed rates of 10 points = 1 USD 1, EUR 1, GBP 0.8.

If they are not redeemed in this manner, RIU points last for 4 years with no further member activity.  After a period of 4 inactive years, all points are forfeited and the member's account is closed.

So plenty of time to use points, or extend their life.

Marriott Bonvoy makes some minor changes to its T&C's - September 2023
2 Sep '23

The start of September 2023 saw some minor, clarifying changes made to Marriott Bonvoy T&C's.

(1) Under T&C's 2.1.b Bonvoy members can earn points on their own room plus 2 additional rooms during a stay.  Previously this required the member to "stay in one of the 3 rooms".  This has now been clarified to say that all 3 rooms must have the same check-in and check-out dates. Presumably this is to prevent the member collecting points for say 11 nights by staying only 1 night, while guests in the other rooms stayed  5 nights each.

The member must pay for all 3 rooms by paying a "qualifying" (non-discounted) rate or apply an Award Redemption for all of the rooms.

The benefit is aimed at families or groups staying together for a single vacation.

(2) T&C's for Marriott Homes & Villas were also clarified in a similar manner to align with hotel stays.  A member can earn (5) points per USD spent for up to 3 homes, provided the homes are in the same city and the bookings are for identical check-in and check-out dates.  Also, as with hotels, Elite Night Credits are only received for 1 of the homes (ie the one in which the member stayed).

Read More…

Virgin Australia looking to attract dis-satisfied Qantas frequent flyers
25 Aug '23

Virgin Australia has launched an offer looking to attract Qantas Gold status (and higher) frequent flyers.

If you apply prior to 15 September, Virgin Australia's Velocity will match your Qantas FF status for 3 months. If you fly only once during that period, that status is extended for a further 12 months.

To apply, email info@velocityfrequentflyer.com with "Velocity Discover Gold trial offer" in the heading.

Perks of  Velocity Gold Status include complimentary Virgin Australia Lounge access, priority boarding, preferential seating, additional baggage allowances (not available when travelling on a Lite fare), and bonus Velocity Points and Status Credits when guests book and fly with Virgin Australia.

Gold Status with both of Australia's major carriers provides a lot of flexibility.  Qantas is a member of the OneWorld alliance and has a cooperative arrangement with Emirates Airlines.  Virgin isn't currently a member of any alliance, but has an eclectic collection of partners who are, so can readily find a partner to take you almost anywhere (with good perks).

Terms & Conditions apply...
Read More…

Virgin Hotels opens in Glasgow
22 Aug '23

Finally, the wait is over!

Set upon the banks of the iconic River Clyde and just a stone's throw away from Central Station (and not much further to Queen St Station), The Virgin Hotels Glasgow is an easy walk to Central Station, St Enoch underground station and Buchanan Street (Glasgow's shopping area), making it an ideal base for exploring all that the beautiful city of Glasgow has to offer.

Virgin Hotels (the luxury lifestyle hotel brand by Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson) has a loyalty program - The Know.  No points earning to think about.  Just sign up and your loyalty is rewarded at every stay with room upgrades (st availability), member discounted rates and free cocktails during the Spirit Hour.  Members in The Know can also tailor their preferences for the duration of their stays.  You can book through Rewarding Travel - our associated travel agency.

From the vibrant dining & drinking scenes of Commons Club, to the breathtaking views from Highyard, come discover this wonderful new addition to the city. 

The Virgin Hotels Glasgow complements the The Virgin Hotels Edinburgh which as we anticipated in our post of March 2022,  opened 1 June 2022. Read More…

Qantas/Emirates airlines collaberation authority extended for a further 5 years by regulator
19 Aug '23

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) this week re-authorised the collaboration between Qantas and Emirates Airlines.

In its determination, the ACCC said the conduct between the two parties has not materially changed since initial authorisation was granted in 2013 and that “The ACCC considers that the conduct would be likely to result in public benefits, in the form of: increased connectivity and convenience; facilitating capacity restoration and expansion; and, better frequent flyer program benefits. The ACCC also considers the conduct is likely to result in limited public benefits through stimulation of tourism and trade,” the determination reads. A little odd considering Qantas' lobbying against the granting of 3 additional slots to Qatar in mid-July resulted in the Federal Minister for Transport (with advice received from the ACCC) rejecting Qatar's application.. 

Qatar was looking to add 21 flights per week into hubs such as Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Perth from the Middle East. The Federal Government sought out the opinion of Qantas as part of Qatar Airways’ application process for bilateral air rights. Qantas opposed the bid on the grounds that it would cause Australian job losses, according to The Australian..  Qatar Airways’ application rejection came amid high international airfares, which some attribute to a lack of competition.

At the time of its submission, Qatar Airways’ CEO, was amongst those criticising Qantas’ influence here. He highlighted that his airline continued to operate flights throughout the pandemic, even when Qantas suspended all flights except government-subsidised repatriation flights and reduced its local labour force.

If true, then this latest decision will do nothing to increase competition on key Australian routes..  

There is a caveat to the approval, however. The ACCC said it is concerned that the coordination between the two carriers could harm competition in the market between Sydney and Christchurch, New Zealand, as Air New Zealand is the only other carrier operating the route. Because of this, Qantas and Emirates have been directed to “provide regular updates on passenger revenue and operating costs to enable us to monitor competition on this route over the next five years,” the ACCC said.
.

Urgent : scam warning as Australia’s largest loyalty point programs, including Qantas are targeted
29 Jul '23

This article originally appeared in The Guardian on 25 July 2023.  Excerpts are repeated here to help spread the warning to users of loyalty programs, like you our readers. For the complete article and links to related ones, you should read the original article (which has copyright owned by The Guardian).

The ACCC has issued an urgent warning to customers of some of Australia’s largest loyalty reward programs, including Qantas Frequent Flyer, after detecting a new scam that targets valuable points. The National Anti-Scam Centre has received 209 reports to Scamwatch in the past four months, of the scam targeting Qantas frequent flyer, Telstra and Coles loyalty programs customers.

Australians lost a record amount of more than $3.1bn to scams in 2022, up from the $2bn lost in 2021, according to ACCC figures. New data from Commbank released on Tuesday showed Australians are becoming more cautious of answering the phone because of the increase, with three in four (76%) people only picking up if they recognise the number.

With the new scam, consumers receive a text message or email stating their loyalty points are expiring. It includes a link to a fake website, which prompts customers to log in. Customers may also be prompted to provide credit card details to use loyalty points. Scammers then steal customers’ points, their login details and personal information to use on other platforms and commit identity fraud.

The vast majority of reports to Scamwatch received so far are in relation to Qantas frequent flyer, Telstra and Coles loyalty programs, but Australians should be aware that any loyalty program could be targeted, ACCC deputy chair Catriona Lowe said.“The National Anti-Scam Centre has contacted the companies that have been impersonated by scammers and is working with web host providers to have the fake websites taken down, to minimise harm to the community,”

Lowe said. “We are very concerned that Australians experiencing cost-of-living pressures may be more susceptible to these scams. Scammers are deliberately panicking consumers by claiming their points are expiring soon. We urge people to immediately delete or ignore any message regarding a loyalty program that contains a link.

We advise our readers to be vigilant and if receiving any such emails or texts, to not use those links, but instead go directly to their loyalty program website and check there. There are details on the official sites that provide contact details should you need to speak to anyone.

Further details on the ACCC report can be found.... Read More…

COMO Orchard launch brings with it COMO's first hometown property & (very) special launch offer
27 Jul '23

The launch of COMO Orchard - a destination concept located at 30 Bideford Road, Singapore that unites COMO’s signature house brands and new partnerships into one inspiring lifestyle space -  includes COMO Metropolitan Singapore, which marks the hotel group’s debut homecoming to Singapore shores.

COMO Metropolitan Singapore offers the quintessential Singaporean experience with the best in COMO Group’s hospitality, fashion, wellness and cuisine across 19 floors, including including:

COMO Shanbhala - the luxury wellness and spa centre; and

COTE Singapore, a Korean Steakhouse from Simon Kim, who has garnered Michelin stars for his restaurants in New York and Miami.

Be one of the first to stay at this exciting new hotel and enjoy 4 nights for the price of 3.

• Book by 31 August 2023 for a minimum stay of 4 nights
• Stay between 19 September and 21 December 2023.

In addition, Comoclub members will earn an exclusive bonus of 1,000 Comocredits for every night stayed!
Bookings can be made through our associated travel agency, Rewarding Travel.

T&C's apply

Turkish Airlines debut in Australia still in a holding pattern
24 Jul '23

Expectations of an announcement last week fell flat, however the Star Alliance carrier says it aims to reach Australia soon. Turkish Airlines could land in Australia as soon as December, but with a catch...

Turkish Airlines says it is in advanced negotiations with both Sydney and Melbourne as it aims to introduce flights to Australia, with ambitions of touching down at either airport for the first time potentially before the end of 2023.

If and when Turkish Airlines does commence operations down under, it would be the only mainland European carrier to fly to Australia. Australians are also no stranger to Turkish Airlines, with the carrier welcoming nearly 119,000 Aussies on board in 2022 through various codeshare agreements it holds with other airlines

The airline is currently working through some legal loopholes before being able to add either city to its expansive network of nearly 130 destinations worldwide, however Turkish Airlines Chairman Dr Ahmet Bolat recently said in an interview that he was hoping for a final decision by next month.

But there appear to be two main (related) catches:

1. Lack of aircraft capable of non-stop flights

While Turkish Airlines has maintained an office in Sydney for some 35 years, another major problem standing in the way is the lack of an aircraft capable of making the non-stop journey from Istanbul to either Sydney or Melbourne.

At a flying time of at least 17 hours non-stop, the airline is banking on a future order of up to 15 Airbus A350-1000XLR or Boeing 777X as being the missing link, however neither aircraft are expected to be ready until near the end of this decade.

For now, flights to either Sydney or Melbourne could become a reality on its ready-made fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with a refuelling stop in Singapore in both directions.

“Our main goal is to fly directly to both Sydney and Melbourne every day, with the production of a new generation of ultra-long-range aircraft,” Bolat said.

2. The need to be able to sell tickets for the link between Singapore and Australia

For now, the airline requires ‘fifth freedom’ rights to sell tickets on the sector between Singapore and both Sydney and Melbourne for Australian flights to make economic sense.  This would enable it to pick up and drop off passengers in Singapore.

Turkish Airlines operates the world’s largest network and currently holds rights to land in Australia up to four times per week under an existing air rights agreement with Australia, however Bolat has ambitions of eventually offering daily flights to both Sydney and Melbourne.

“We are eager to add Australia to our network and connect Australian people to the world with our award-winning service quality.”, Bolat said.


Turkish Airlines has won several Skytrax World Airline awards, including Best European Airline 2023 and best in both Economy and Business cabins specifically.
Miles&Smiles, its loyalty program alst has some very attractive features.

Dis-loyalty program to be launched by an Accor division
22 Jul '23

Ennismore, a group that that encompasses several hotel brands such as SO/, The Hoxton and Mondrian will launch it's own membership program on July 27, 2023.

Using "Dis-loyalty" as the program name seems to be a counter-intuitive marketing tactic.

A "teaser" video has been released and the only details so far are that "Ennismore is excited to announce Dis-loyalty – a new travel and food membership that beats boring and brings together 10 brands from our lifestyle collective… stay tuned for more…"

Ennismore and Accor entered a joint venture in 2021 to create a new autonomous entity, with Accor holding a majority shareholding. 

In 2022, Ennismore expanded across the lifestyle and leisure segments with the additions of Rixos, the luxury all-inclusive brand, and Paris Society, a leading operator of luxury restaurants & entertainment venues (including Maison Russe in Paris)., creating three new distinct business units.

How this new program will sit against Accor's overall loyalty/lifestyle program Accor Live Limitless will be intriguing.  I guess we will learn more in a week's time.

(Pictured is the lobby of SO/ in Paris)

GHA launches loyalty partnership with Regent Seven Seas | Triple rewards for limited time
22 Jul '23

Members of the GHA Discovery Program can earn elite status by sailing with one of the world’s leading luxury cruise lines.

In an interesting development, Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, has entered a loyalty partnership with luxury cruise line Regent Seven Seas Cruises (Regent), which offers access to 500+ ports of call around the globe.

This follows the recent trend of luxury hotel chains launching their own luxury cruise lines (Aman, Belmond, Four Seasons, Accor's Orient-Express, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club and Virgin Voyages), although only 3 currently have ships sailing.

GHA DISCOVERY members, who have access to 800 hotels, resorts and palaces operated by 40 hotel brands in 100 countries, are rewarded with the program’s rewards currency, DISCOVERY Dollars (D$1 equal to US$1).

Through this exclusive partnership, the program’s members will now enjoy the additional benefit of earning DISCOVERY Dollars by reserving a voyage with Regent and will be able to redeem those benefits in any GHA hotel, resort or palace, but not to book cruises or while sailing onboard Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships.

Benefits for GHA DISCOVERY members

• Between D$750 and D$2,500 for every Regent cruise reservation made, which can be spent at any GHA hotel or resort worldwide, valid for 12 months.
  
• Fast-track upgrade to GHA DISCOVERY Titanium status, valid for over 12 months (the remainder of the calendar year in which it is earned, plus all of the following calendar year), offering benefits such as double room upgrades, special amenities, early check-in, and late checkout at GHA hotels and resorts worldwide.
  
• On-board welcome gift of premium chocolates and Champagne with any Regent voyage reserved by a GHA DISCOVERY member.

Launch Promotion

To celebrate the launch of the partnership, GHA DISCOVERY members can collect triple rewards of up to D$7,500, The offer is valid for bookings until 30 September 2023 and cruises departing on or before 31 December 2023.


Our thoughts

While the luxury hotel chains of Aman, Belmond, Four Seasons, Accor's Orient-Express, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club and Virgin Voyages have chosen to create their own cruise lines, GHA instead chose to forge an alliance with a well-establisd existing luxury line in Regent.

This possibly reflects their background in managing alliances, but also has the advantage of providing immediate benefits for its Discovery members (and potentially many new passengers for Regent) without any teething problems.  

The value of Discovery program should aslo not be lost by Regent passengers, who would be wise to join Discovery prior to booking their next cruise

For more information regarding GHA Discovery, refer to our comprehensive guide to GHA Discovery, which has details on how to join.
For more information on the GHA/Regent alliance, please see the Frequently Asked Questions here.

Virgin Australia & ANA expand their alliance, boosting Japan access
19 Jul '23

Travellers can now access more of Japan on a single booking through the wider tie-up that includes 12 cities within Japan and others around the world. 

The boosted tie-up  allows customers to book airfares on ANA-operated flights between Australia and Japan on VA’s website for the first time.  .
When flying ANA, Velocity Frequent Flyer (VFF) members can earn points and status credits across over 130 destinations in the ANA network, including 12 domestic links in Japan (such as Sapporo, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Osaka-Kansai, Nagasaki, and Okinawa), and connections to Asia, North America and Europe.

Earning points
Through the partnership, Silver, Gold and Platinum members flying on ANA planes with VA flight numbers will earn points on miles on top of base points, accruing 50 per cent, 75 per cent and 100 per cent bonus points respectively.  Gold and Platinum members on ANA flights will receive priority check-in, priority baggage and an extra checked baggage allowance among other benefits.  Meanwhile, to mark the launch, Velocity members will earn 20 per cent bonus points on eligible ANA-operated Sydney-Tokyo flights for travel between 18 July and 31 December 2023. The member must activate this offer by 1 August 2023 to qualify for this offer.  As part of the launch of the partnership expansion, Velocity is offering a 20% mileage bonus on ANA flights between Tokyo and Sydney through December 31, 2023, if they register for this offer by August 1. You can access this offer on Virgin Australia’s website here and ANA’s page for partner airlines here, where the offer's T&C's are listed.

Conclusion
ANA is Virgin Australia’s fifth Star Alliance partner and Virgin Atlantic, also a VA partner, recently joined SkyTeam. Virgin Australia used to be Delta’s Australian partner but switched to United Airlines (a Star Alliance member) instead. While some may wish for Virgin Australia to settle on joining one of the alliances (except perhaps OneWorld of which Qantas is  founding member), but having a diverse set of partners provides VFF members the ability to access to a wide range of partners within both Star Alliance and SkyTeam networks.

Awayz extends coverage globally with Accor properties now added
15 Jul '23

Product Updates:

Accor hotels are now supported! With this exciting addition, Awayz currently supports 30,000 properties. Plus, US users can filter Accor searches with Citi and Capital One points.

They note that they’ve also reached full global coverage! In addition to major cities, Awayz now supports all small cities.

Premium Awayz users now have 250 monthly searches to compare in real time points vs cash redemptions and the ability to set 10 award availability alerts! 

Last but not least, they have launched a neat new feature: free-form search. This feature allows Awayz users to search our supported hotel brands so they can view all different properties across the globe right on the map! Not to mention, with this update, you can partially write out the name of any hotel, city, or region, and it will quickly appear in the search bar.

To learn more about Accor's brands, property locations and loyalty program, see our comprehensive guide to all you want to know about Accor Live Limitless.

To check out Awayz (advertiser) or subscribe at our readers discounted rate, see points vs cash tool.


Our take:

We believe that this update makes Awayz an even more valuable tool. The enhanced search features are a great help.  But we are most excited about Accor now being analysed, because:

1. Accor has many more properties across Europe and the APAC region.
   
2. Accor's loyalty program is very solid and particularly attractive in APAC and Oceania.
   
3. The range of brands is fantastic and includes icons such as:
   

The range of brands is fantastic and includes icons such as:

Raffles
Fairmont
Banyan Tree
Sofitel
Angsana.

In Australia, many leisure/resort brands are present, including:

• Mövenpick
• Peppers
• Pullman
• Mantra
• The Sebel

COMO Confirms September 2023 launch for 156-room luxury hotel in Singapore
8 Jul '23

COMO has confirmed Metropolitan Singapore Opening Timeline - September 2023 soft launch for 156-room luxury hotel

The COMO Group this week reconfirmed a soft opening in September 2023 for its first hotel in the hospitality company’s home country, COMO Metropolitan Singapore. .

The property will be located within COMO Orchard, the brand’s newest immersive experience building spread over 19 floors in the heart of Singapore on Bideford Road.

Opening in successive phases starting in September 2023, the 156-room hotel boasts city-wide views and brings together COMO Group’s three hospitality pillars of fashion, wellness and cuisine into one location. COMO Orchard will host COMO Metropolitan Singapore’s 11 floors of luxury accommodations, a rooftop pool bar for guests, as well floors for dining, a wellness centre, and fashion retail.

The brand’s wellness centre, COMO Shambhala, has been at the forefront of preventative health in the hospitality industry for over 25 years throughout 16 global COMO properties. The newest addition to the COMO Shambhala portfolio, COMO Orchard’s wellness facility dedicated to holistic well-being offers luxury spa treatments and addresses both core movement – yoga, Pilates, Gyro, gym and functional fitness – and nutrition including gut health and body composition diagnostics.

Classes, workshops, one-day Wellness Packages and multi-day Wellness Paths allow guests to either choose their wellness journey, or have one curated for them.

COMO Orchard will host three dining venues and two floors dedicated to fashion retail.

Opening rates are expected to start from S$625 per night..

For more details, ...   Read More…

Award Availability search made easy
5 Jul '23

The folk at Odynn have been busy.  They have just released some very exciting news: they’ve launched award availability alerts! 

Award Availability Alerts:

(1)  You can now set award availability alerts in Awayz on the Trip Overview page. You can also customize the alerts by updating the dates on the Preferences page.
(2)  When award availability opens for a hotel you set an alert for, you’ll be notified through email and on Awayz when you log in. Premium members are allotted five alerts and Free users have one. Email alerts for award availability will launch early next week but for now, you’ll be notified on Awayz.

●  When award availability opens for a hotel you set an alert for, you’ll be notified by email and on Awayz when you log in.
● Premium users are allotted five alerts, and the alerts can be set on the Trip Overview page and also customized by updating the dates on the Preferences page.
● If you haven’t had a chance to check out the newest award availability alerts feature, please do and let us know your feedback.  

This new feature is an invaluable one.  Some programs are renowned for only releasing limited availability of award nights.  Awayz will help you find and book them faster than other members of Hilton Honors, World of Hyatt, Marriott Bonvoy and IHG One Rewards.

No need to miss out ever again!..


Premium hotel deal alerts newsletter now includes multi nights!

For premium subscribers, the links for the deals now take you directly to the Trip Overview page so you’ll know if you have enough points to book the trip!

Perfect for planning (and booking) your next holiday !

We are proud to be able to offer this great tool at a special rate for our readers.  Even more pleasing is the commitment to developing the tool to make it ever more useful for travellers using points to enhance the luxe level of their travels - like you and us. Read More…

Skytrax Awards 2023 - World's Best Airline is...
21 Jun '23

Presented in a gala ceremony held in the iconic Air and Space Museum at the Paris Air Show, the Skytrax World Airline Awards are tabulated from more than 20 million surveys submitted by travellers from 100 countries, who rated 325 different airlines between September 2022 and May 2023.


World’s Best Airline

Singapore Airlines claimed the prestigious title of World’s Best Airline in the 2023 Skytrax World Airline Awards, marking the fifth time the fifth time in the 23 year history of the awards.the carrier has taken out the prestigious accolade.

The seven times winner of the prestigious Airline of the Year award, Qatar Airways, was ranked No 2 in the world for 2023, with ANA All Nippon Airways in third place, Emirates fourth, and Japan Airlines in fifth position, out of more than 325 airlines included in the survey results.

A new award was introduced in 2023, for the World’s Most Family Friendly Airline, this being won by Air Canada. This award includes family seating policies, dedicated family check-in facilities, priority boarding, children’s meals, children’s amenities / toys / activity packs, child specific onboard entertainment, free checked luggage and policies for carrycot / pushchairs, and the standard of service assistance from ground staff and cabin crew during the travel experience.


Big Winners

Notably, multiple award winners included Qatar Airways who scooped nine award wins, with Singapore Airlines also receiving nine awards. In North America, Delta Air Lines was the success in North America, winning six awards. In Europe, Turkish Airlines was dominant, receiving four awards including the highly competitive Best Airline in Europe title.

Qatar Airways continued its domination in business class, winning the awards for World’s Best Business Class, the World’s Best Business Class Seat, the World’s Best Business Class Lounge (the Al Mourjan lounge at Hamad International Airport), the World’s Best Business Class Lounge Dining and the Best Airline in the Middle East.

Singapore Airlines dominated the First Class travel awards, winning the awards for the World’s Best First Class, the World’s Best First Class Seat, the World’s Best First Class Comfort Amenities and took top position as the Best Airline in Asia.

ANA All Nippon Airways claimed third place in the global ranking, and repeats its earlier successes by winning awards for the World’s Best Airport Services and the World’s Cleanest Airline.

Kuwait Airways wins the 2023 award as the World’s Most Improved Airline, ahead of StarLux in 2nd place and PLAY in 3rd position. This is award reflects an airline’s Quality improvement across the entire Awards programme, evaluating an airline’s change in the global rating, and their performance in different award categories.

Cathay Pacific had a notable achievement for 2023 as they were judged as providing the World’s Best Inflight Entertainment for the very first time.

EVA Air won the award for the World’s Best Premium Economy Class (the travel cabin that EVA invented more than 30 years ago). EVA Air also won the award for the Best Premium Economy Class Catering.

Japan Airlines ranks No 1 in Economy Class, winning the award for the World’s Best Economy Class as well as the award for the World’s Best Economy Class Seat.

Fiji Airways secured the Best Airline in Australia / Pacific for the first time, and in a double success also won the award as the Best Airline Staff Service in Australia / Pacific for the third time.

In the India / South Asia region, Vistara reigns supreme and was again named winner of the Best Airline in India / South Asia award, in addition to Best Airline Staff Service for the region.

In North America, Delta Air Lines was the Best Airline in North America, in addition to Best Airline Staff Service for the region. Sun Country Airlines wins the Best Low-Cost Airline in North America title for the first time.

Alaska Airlines was the Best Regional Airline in North America in this very competitive market. Air Transat were another big winner from North America after being named as the World’s Best Leisure Airline – an award the Canadian airline has won on four previous occasions.


For a full list of the awards and winners, you can ...
Read More…

Renovated resort will become the first Marriott-branded all-inclusive resort in the world
9 Jun '23

The former Marriott Cancun Resort will reopen in early 2024 as an all-inclusive renamed Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort.

The resort will become the first Marriott-branded all-inclusive resort in the world.

The former Marriott Cancun Resort closed its doors in March 2023 to undergo an extensive renovation for the conversion.

It’s also the latest step in Marriott International’s quest to grow its all-inclusive footprint. In 2019 Marriott International announced it planned to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in all-inclusive resort product. Since 2019 Marriott has grown its All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy portfolio to 31 resorts.

Marriott and its competitors may be relative newcomers to an all-inclusive market already dominated in Mexico and the Caribbean by Spain-based hotel conglomerates (Iberostar, Barcelo etc), and other dominant players including Sandals Resorts. But they’re making up for lost time in a hurry.

Marriott says the renewed Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort will redefine what it means to be ‘all-inclusive’ and will debut newly redesigned rooms, suites, lobby, meeting spaces, and public areas, including new restaurant concepts, expansive pools, and a lazy river and waterpark.

The resort began renovations in March 2023. Meanwhile the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa sister resort is open and fully operating.

Delta unveils innovative prototype wheelchair securement/seating
7 Jun '23

Buckle up and prepare for some big news!

A major global airline has invested big bucks (not just lip-service) in bringing a wheelchair securement space to life.

Delta Flight Products, a subsidiary of Delta Air Lines that was “established to re-think aircraft interiors” has announced its backing of the Air4All wheelchair securement system on commercial jets — the company unveiling its design prototype at the Aircraft Interiors Expo 2023 in Hamburg, Germany.

Air 4 All works in a similar way to latch-type locking and securement systems used by many wheelchair users in their own vehicles. When a wheelchair user is flying, the seat folds up to reveal the securement space and attachments. If no wheelchair users require access, the seats function as regular airline seats.

The design has the added benefit of enabling airlines to retain the design of their cabin on every seat, ensuring a cohesive brand experience for all passengers. Air 4 All will facilitate a smoother boarding and disembarking experience and will also significantly reduce the number of wheelchairs that are damaged through poor handling.”

John Morris of wheelchairtravel.org tried out the seat design that has a securement system that can accommodate a wide range of both powered and manual wheelchairs. He felt that critical reporting on this product, its advancements, features and opportunities for improvement should come from within the disability community.

John says, “Are you ready to have your mind blown? I tested out the wheelchair securement space unveiled today by Delta Flight Products — it's nothing short of amazing, and I'm more confident than ever that we'll see a wheelchair space on airplanes not only in my lifetime, but soon! “ You can read and watch his demonstration here: https://wheelchairtravel.org/first-look-air4all-airplane.

Imagine the number of people whose travelling will be made soooo much more enjoyable once this becomes available from airlines.

Kudos to Delta !

How six of Spain's top hospitality companies keep their operations more sustainable
5 Jun '23

Since 1973, the United Nations has recognized June 5 as World Environment Day, an annual event that it says "puts a global spotlight on the pressing environmental challenges of our times". This seems like the perfect time to highlight a few hospitality businesses and their sustainability initiatives.

In the hospitality industry, embracing more sustainable practices is more than a moral imperative; it makes good business sense. That's because sustainable tourism has become a top priority for a large number of travelers. (This is especially true of millennials and members of Generation Z.).  For some in the hotel industry, implementing more sustainable practices might mean taking small steps — they could replace plastic straws with reusable glass or metal ones, for example — or it might mean making major changes to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and eliminate food waste.

According to a 2022 Sustainable Travel Report from booking.com, 73% of travelers say they would be more likely to choose an accommodation that has implemented sustainable practices — and 81% intend to stay in an environmentally friendly location at least once in the next year. 

If this is you, read on to learn more about how these 6 hotel chains lead the way in conscious and meaningful sustainability.

Barceló Hotel Group

Barceló Hotel Group is Spain's second-largest hotel chain, with more than 250 four- and five-star urban and holiday hotels, and more than 55,000 rooms across 22 countries. The company's properties are marketed under the brands Royal Hideaway, Barceló, Occidental and Allegro. 

It has an active loyalty program - my Barceló. 

What they’re doing

Recognizing climate change as a global environmental crisis, Barceló Hotel Group has made a commitment to reduce its environmental impact.

At its Occidental hotels in the United Arab Emirates, for example, the company's sustainability practices are implemented through eco-friendly cleaning products, water and energy conservation, and waste reduction.

Occidental Al Jaddaf, for instance, uses solar panels to operate water heaters for energy conservation and features low-flow devices in public bathrooms and showers to reduce water consumption.

Barceló Hotel Group's vice president for sales and marketing for GCC, Raquel López, said in a news release: “We aim to be at the forefront of sustainability within the hospitality industry to ensure that our properties are not only safe for our guests at this current time, but also for the generations of travelers yet to come. The introduction of this comprehensive strategy has allowed us to lay the framework for even more sustainable initiatives in the future.”

Iberostar

Operating more than 100 hotels in 16 countries, Iberostar has built its brand image on its dedication to promoting responsible and sustainable travel. The Iberostar Group's offerings range from all-inclusive beachside resorts in Mexico, Jamaica and Brazil to chic urban hotels in cities like New York, Barcelona, Marrakech and Lisbon.

It has closed its own loyalty program - Iberostar Horizons.  Almost all properties now participate in the IHG One Rewards program via a marketing alliance.

What they’re doing

Iberostar's Wave of Change program signals that the international hotel chain is committed to moving towards a circular economy, promoting the responsible consumption of seafood and improving the health of coastal environments.

In addition to phasing out single-use plastic items in 1999 — eliminating the use of over 420 tonnes of plastics annually — the company has committed to making its operations waste-free by 2025 and carbon neutral by 2030.

Earlier this year, Iberostar reopened its Cristina hotel in Playa de Palma, Mallorca, following an upgrade in its energy supply that has eliminated the use of all fossil fuels in favor of electricity from renewable energy sources. This move makes the hotel greener by reducing its carbon footprint to zero without compromising the guest experience.

Iberostar has also pledged that its seafood consumption will be 100% sustainable by 2025, and it has already hit that target in Mexico. Investment in sustainable fishing supports local communities and helps preserve local ecosystems for future generations.

Iberostar is hoping that, by 2025, Wave of Change will be a major driver for 60% of all hotel-room bookings at its properties.

Meliá Hotels International

One of the 20 largest hotel companies in the world, Meliá Hotels International operates more than 380 properties on four continents.

It has an active loyalty program -  Meliá Rewards, for which we have a detailed guide.

What they’re doing

Meliá's commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement has led it to identify specific medium-term environmental objectives related to combating climate change.

Driven by innovation and technology, Meliá has developed an efficient management system designed to reduce the use of natural resources and shrink each hotel's carbon footprint.

The company's sustainable strategies include:

• Implementing sustainability criteria throughout the supply chain, beginning with hotel concept and design
  
• Using certified sources of renewable energy, standardizing efficient management systems and implementing systems that reduce water usage
  
• Reducing or eliminating high-impact waste from the ecosystem
  
• Measurement and control of consumption through tools, indicators and scientific criteria
  
• Training employees and raising customer awareness through programs focused on respect for the environment and biodiversity

NH Hotel Group

NH Hotel Group is one of the 25 largest chains in the world and operates 356 hotels across 33 countries in Europe, the Americas, Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

It recently migrated its loyalty program to participate in GHA Discovery.

What they’re doing

NH Hotel Group has dubbed its environmental management plan UP FOR Planet, which is its roadmap for fulfilling the commitments it has made to combat climate change and progress towards decarbonization, the efficient management and consumption of resources and the development of more sustainable products.

The company has set a number of sustainable development goals, with the aim of achieving the following:

• 64% of energy use by hotel buildings is to come from renewable energy sources
  
• 15 million single-use plastic amenities (e.g. plastic straws and cups) eliminated each year
  
• 35% yearly reduction in energy consumption per room nights
  
• 89% local purchases

Palladium Hotel Group

Palladium Hotel Group is an international hotel chain based in Ibiza, with 48 hotels in six different countries (Spain, Brazil, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Italy) around the world.  

Palladium has its own loyalty program - Palladium Rewards.

What they’re doing

Palladium's green practices are focused on the following goals, among others:

• Reducing single-use plastics 
  
• Moving towards digitalization
  
• Rational, sustainable use of water 
  
• Measuring the company's carbon footprint more accurately 
  
• Reducing energy consumption 
  
• Circular economy initiatives 
  
• Reducing, recycling and reusing waste 
  
• Protecting biodiversity 

Palladium's sustainability initiatives include a turtle conservation and release program in Jamaica, beach cleanup and maintenance at all of its hotels, and a program that monitors the health of the mangrove forests on its properties along the Riviera Maya.

Paradores

The state-owned Paradores de Turismo specializes in cultural and nature tourism, with 97 properties throughout Spain's autonomous communities and one in Portugal. In addition to having Paradores in nine cities that have been declared World Heritage Sites, the company also operates accommodations in national parks and other natural areas, often housed in heritage properties such as castles and monasteries.

Paradores has a little known loyalty program - Amigos de Paradores.

What they’re doing

Paradores has implemented a Climate Action Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate its impact on climate change, with the objective of being net-zero in 2030.

A few milestones on Paradores' sustainability journey to date:

• In 2019, the organization announced that it would replace plastic straws, bottles and cups with compostable alternatives.
  
• Starting in 2020, Paradores has calculated the carbon footprint of all of its properties with an eye toward replacing deficient or highly CO2-emitting equipment as well as the improvement of automatic control systems for energy consumption.
  
• Electricity at each of Paradores' properties is generated through the use of renewable resources.
  

To find out more about sustainability in the hospitality industry, visit the website of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. Members of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance include some of the biggest names in the hotel industry, such as Iberostar, Accor, Hilton and Marriott International.

Kimpton Secret Password - use before it self-destructs September 4
28 May '23

Kimpton Hotels have a funky boutique hotel brand image. One of many aspects of its charm is the Kimpton secret password  that guests can mention at check-in to get a perk, benefit, or bonus. These include items like free parking, a free breakfast, a free upgrade, etc.

What's the latest Kimpton Hotel Secret Password?

It's been several months since the last secret password, which expired on February 20, 2023. Now, there's a new password running May 26–September 3, 2023.

When checking into a Kimpton hotel between those dates, you can use the secret password “no shade” to (hopefully) receive a special perk or privilege.

Kimpton Hotels have provided seasonal or monthly secret passwords to guests for years. The tradition started before IHG acquired the brand in 2014. Some of the secret passwords have been phrases such as “stay cool,” “flip flops,” “baby, it's cold outside,” “chilled to perfection,” and even “marshmallow.”

This summer, Kimpton Hotel is using the secret password “no shade.” It is valid at all participating locations May 26–September 3, 2023. Kimpton Hotels have stated that every hotel honors the secret password differently, so it's a surprise what you'll get.

Secret Password Perks You May Receive

Historically, guests have reported a wide range of bonuses when using the Kimpton Hotels' secret password. Here are some examples:

• Free parking (regular or valet)
• Complimentary breakfast
• Free upgrade
• Complimentary bottle of wine
• A whisky-tasting tour
• Cupcakes
• A movie night in your room
• Free drinks at the bar
• Surprise gift-wrapped presents
• Drink kits (like Bailey's hot chocolate)
• Mini-bar credit

The bonuses aren't always at the hotel, as some hotels have partnered with other companies. For example, such as another restaurant or perhaps a whisky distillery. It's been three months since the last password “expired,” so it's nice to see the Kimpton secret password is back. It's just a little thing, but adds to the vibe of the Kimpton brand, which I like.

If you do have a stay booked this summer, make sure to check Kimpton's social media to see if there's a new password.

Hyatt launches new All-Inclusive brand - Impression by Secrets
25 May '23

Hyatt Hotels has announced the opening of Impression by Secrets Isla Mujeres in Mexico. The adults-only luxury resort marks the launch of the Impression by Secrets brand, part of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection.

Impression by Secrets will target the top end of All-Inclusicve stays, with a range of personalized service and amenities offered to guests via an extension of the brand’s “Endless Privileges” concept.

Guests of Impression by Secrets Isla Mujeres can indulge in a multitude of privileged inclusions before even checking in. Butlers will welcome guests on the mainland as they board a private yacht from Marina Hacienda del Mar to reach the resort’s private pier, following which they are taken to the island and guided to their rooms. These complimentary transfers ensure guests’ needs are met from shore to sea with a full bar and butler service available during the 25-minute sail.

Located on the southern end of the island, the resort offers views of the Caribbean Sea, Atlantic Ocean and Isla Mujeres. The use of natural elements such as bamboo and local wood complements its setting atop a coastal cliff. Complete with butler service and complimentary laundry services, the resort’s 125 suites offer in-room amenities such as double rain showers, terrace whirlpools, custom-stocked wine fridges and yoga mats.

The resort has eight à la carte dining venues, nine bars and lounges with unlimited top-shelf spirits, pool and beach service, as well as in-suite dining available 24 hours. Gourmet restaurants include an open terrace restaurant, Spezia, serving Mediterranean cuisine; and Unik, the rooftop restaurant that hosts live music in the evening.

Pure SPA offers a range of experiences, from touchless therapies in the island’s only Floatarium to the hammam and six private spa cabins. Additionally, a fitness center, complete with a certified personal trainer, equipment, fitness classes, and a variety of wellness-focused activities such as SUP yoga further enhance a holistic wellbeing journey.

Located on a white-sand beach ideal for snorkeling, the resort has four oceanfront infinity pools, Bali beds and hammocks, an over-water lounge ideal for observing marine life and a four-story waterslide. The daily activities calendar and nightly entertainment include options such as cooking classes, coffee and wine tastings, and sunset paddle boarding.

To explore the five-mile-long island, the resort provides guests with complimentary golf carts and bikes to enjoy Isla Mujeres’ coral reefs, rocky coastline, ancient Mayan ruins and local boutique shops and eateries.

Impression by Secrets Isla Mujeres is an Hyatt Category F property, for which Standard rooms usually vary in price from 42,000 to 58,000 points per night.  

A quick look revealed that a standard room currently cost 50,000 points per night until 1 September, after which the rate drops to 42,000 points per night.  Mid-December 2023  through April 2024 are currently priced at 58,000 points per night.

For more information, visit www.impression-by-secrets-isla-mujeres.

Points or Cash? Special deal for this new tool which finds best value - in real time
24 May '23

The new tool
A new tool has been launched to help members of major loyalty programs decide which method of payment provides best value - cash or your hard-earned points.

After trialling it myself, I found it easy to use and quickly found good deals which I was able to independently verify.

I liked it so much that I approached them to see if there was a way readers could readily access their tool.  I am pleased to say that I have been able to obtain a special deal for our readers. Details are below.

Currently applicable for loyalty program members of IHG, Hilton, Hyatt and Marriott (the big 4), I have my fingers crossed that there are also more waiting in the wings..

Subscribers to Awayz By Odynn (advertiser) are able to:

• see when awards nights are available at a property on a 12-month outlook and
  see when to take advantage of fourth/ fifth-night free offers for IHG, Marriott, and Hilton hotels

• compare cash and points pricing side-by-side to determine the optimal way to pay for their next stay - LIVE ! Not with points valuations that are updated monthly and are  out-of date during seasonal peaks and troughs - exactly the times you need most accuracy.
  
  
• see when to use Free Night Certificates
  
  
• receive tailored redemption recommendations based on their (stored) existing hotel points and (US) bank rewards balances - a great feature is that active bank transfer bonus promotions are taken into consideration as well.
  
  
• redeem their points as cash through transfer award programs like Bilt, Citi, Chase, and Capital One.
  
  

Lastly, Premium subscribers are always kept up-to-date on the latest points deals thanks to the weekly hotel deal alerts newsletter that uses the live cash vs. points pricing.

As you can imagine, there must be some sophisticated number-crunching in the tool to be able to do all this.

Most importantly you now don't need to do it!

Standard Pricing
There are 3 tiers available from Awayz:

Premium, which includes all the above valuable features with a generous limit of 150 monthly searches. The pricing for this tier is usually US$11.99 monthly, or an annual rate of US$99.99 (a discount of 30%).  Ideal for regular travellers and points enthusiasts who are tired of juggling multiple websites when planning their stays. 

Trip Pass: provides Premium Tier access (without the weekly deal alerts newsletter) and 50 searches for US$4.99 per 72 hour pass. 

Free: provides Premium Tier access (without the weekly deal alerts newsletter) for 5 searches per month - enough to get used to the tool and see how valuable it is.

Special Offer for pointsNplaces readers
For our readers, Awayz is offering a promotional offer of free 72-hour trial of Premium plus a US$10 discount off the annual subscription and you will keep that rate forever, as long as you renew the subscription each year.

That's an annual subscription for US$89.99 (excludes tax) for as long as you maintain this special subscription.

Just imagine how much this could save you over a year!  Just one stay could pay for the entire year's subscription - and save you a heap of your time as well as money..

Subscribe now and start seeing the value Awayz can add for your next summer break. 

The best value is in the Annual Premium tier - at a discount to the already discounted annual rate (an overall discount of 37.5%). To take advantage of the offer either use the link above, or enter the code pointsnplaces on the Packages page on their website awayz.com.

Happy bargain hunting !
 

Link your Qatar Airlines and Accor ALL accounts before June 10 - receive bonus points for both
21 May '23

In September 2022, Accor Hotels improved its partnership with Qatar Airways. Since then, members have been able to double dip on Accor hotel stays and Qatar Airways flights. To do this, you need to link your ALL account with your Qatar Airways Privilege Club account. You can do that with Accor Hotels or Qatar Airways. Even better, if you haven't already done this, members now can earn a bonus through June 10, 2023 just for linking their accounts. If you already took advantage of the ALL and Flying Blue partnership or the ALL and Qantas partnership, you'll need to choose which airline you want to double dip with. You can link your ALL account to just one airline at a time. If you linked your ALL account to Flying Blue or Qantas in the past 12 months, you need to wait until the end of 12 months before you can link to Qatar Airways. This promotion is available to members who have not linked their ALL and Qatar accounts before May 10, 2023. If that is you, link your ALL and Qatar Airways accounts before June 10, 2023. After doing so, complete an eligible stay and/or flight before August 31, 2023 to earn bonus points and Avios. Members will receive 500 bonus ALL Reward points on the stay and 1,000 bonus Avios on the flight. Terms & Conditions Members must link accounts for the first time between May 10 and June 10, 2023 (at 11:59pm Arabia Standard Time, GMT+3) before booking a stay or flight. Book the stay or flight before June 10 and complete it before August 31, 2023. Accor stays must be booked directly with Accor. Qatar Airways flights can be booked through any channel. Members can only claim this promotion once. Make sure to provide the applicable membership number at the time of booking. After completing an eligible stay, bonus points will credit to the member's account within six weeks. Regular points from the stay will credit within seven days, and Avios will credit within 10 days. After completing an eligible flight, bonus Avios will credit to the member's account within six weeks. Regular Avios will credit within 24 hours, and ALL Reward points will credit within 10 days. This promotion stacks with other Accor or Qatar Airways promotions. Stays at onefinestay are not eligible for this offer. Stays and flights that are partially or wholly purchased with loyalty points are ineligible. You can link your accounts either through Accor Hotels or Qatar Airways. Fast Track to Elite Status The Accor and Qatar partnership includes a fast track to elite status in both rewards programs. Accor elite status members will earn Qatar Airways Privilege Club elite status after their first qualifying flight: ALL Gold status members will receive Privilege Club Silver status. ALL Platinum status members will receive Privilege Club Gold status. ALL Diamond status members will receive Privilege Club Platinum status. Conversely, those with Privilege Club elite status can earn ALL elite status after the first qualifying hotel stay: Privilege Club Gold status members will receive ALL Silver status. Privilege Club Platinum status members will receive ALL Gold status. The Fast Track offers are available only once per person. Your complimentary ALL elite status will last until the end of the following calendar year. To maximize this, try to get your status as close to the beginning of the year as possible. Complimentary Privilege Club elite status will last for 12 months from the date it's received. This is a great partnership, especially for Australians, offering better value than the Accor-Qantas partnership, combining the same access to OneWorld partners with the wide range of Accor properties and perks available in APAC..

Etihad Rail to bring luxury railway service to UAE
21 May '23

UAE is building its very own Orient Express.  

Etihad Rail is planning a luxury train that will connect Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah and Oman, aimed at showcasing the region's diverse heritage and beauty to visitors from around the world

A luxury train service is set to bring a new golden age of rail travel to the UAE. The country’s railway operator, Etihad Rail, and Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale on Tuesday signed an agreement at Abu Dhabi’s Middle East Rail conference to establish the service.

A launch date was not revealed but the service, which has been called a “rail cruise”, is expected to cross the UAE from Fujairah in the east down to the historic Liwa desert in Abu Dhabi. The train will consist of 15 luxury carriages and work on them is being undertaken in Puglia and Sicily, Arsenale said.

It brings to mind the great railway journeys of yesteryear such as the famed Orient Express.

More details are expected in the coming months but Arsenale said the carriages will reflect Emirati heritage, while the “production, craftsmanship, quality of on-board services, interior design and know-how will be Italian, and the ‘made in Italy’ signature branding will be the basis on which the entire project will be developed”.

“By establishing a luxury train experience, we are introducing a unique world-class rail-cruise offering to the region and contributing to boosting the tourism sector in the UAE ” said Shadi Malak, chief executive of Etihad Rail, in statement released on Wednesday..

“Furthermore, we will be able to showcase the country’s diverse heritage and beauty to visitors from around the world.”

It is Arsenale’s second international luxury train project following the recent announcement of The Dream of the Desert project in Saudi Arabia. Arsenale is also planning to operate a luxury train service called ” La Dolce Vita” in Italy.

It is envisaged the UAE service will eventually extend into the GCC.

Footnotes

The Orient Express was established in 1883 and ran from Paris to Istanbul. It became synonymous with sophistication and glamour.

Etihad Rail (previously Union Railway Company) was established in June 2009 to develop, build, and operate the railway infrastructure within the UAE. It is owned by the government of Abu Dhabi (70%) and the federal government of the UAE (30%). The railway infrastructure will become a vital part of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) rail programme. The GCC railway network will connect the UAE with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman and is expected to be ready by 2024.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was established by an agreement concluded on 25 May 1981 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia among Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and UAE in view of their special relations, geographic proximity, similar political systems based on Islamic beliefs, joint destiny and common objectives.

Marriott first to "prominently display" Resort Fees - effective from May 15
6 May '23

In response to a court settlement in 2021, by mid-May Marriott will be the first to respond to consumer pressure with upfront full rates on its website and app.

Marriott International in mid-May is going to prominently display on its website and mobile app rates inclusive of resort or destination fees, according to multiple reports. Marriott is making this required moved based on a 2021 settlement in a Pennsylvania court regarding resort fees as a deceptive practice. 

Now the question becomes how quickly other hotels, hotel companies and online travel agents will follow suit before similarly pursued by states.

As of now, online travel agencies such as Expedia can show Marriott rates with resort fees displayed much less prominently.

Marriott issued a statement on the afternoon of Monday May 1st (local time):  “Marriott International is committed to providing customers with clear and transparent pricing. We have long been focused on ensuring that any resort/destination fees charged by hotels are separately and clearly stated. We have been working diligently over the last several months on the technology required to update our room rate display and further enhance the way these fees are disclosed, in accordance with our agreement with the State of Pennsylvania. In fact, when we deploy our changes by May 15, 2023, we expect to be the first hospitality company to change its display, leading the industry on this important issue."

Other hotel chain have also had resort fees associated with some properties that were not fully disclosed until payment.  Some resort fees were applied to properties that were clearly not "resorts".

Further, even though the members of some loyalty progrms may have had resort fees waived, not all programs did so.


This added price transparency is a win for consumers.  We hope the online travel agencies join the party soon.

Marriott expands its affordable/midrange presence in Caribbean and Latin America region
2 May '23

Marriott announced today that it has completed its acquisition of the City Express brand portfolio from Hoteles City Express, S.A.B. de C.V. (BMV: HCITY). With this acquisition, Marriott International has entered the affordable midscale segment and is launching its 31^st brand, City Express by Marriott.

With this brand acquisition, Marriott has significantly grown its presence in the Caribbean and Latin America, making it the largest hotel company in the region,

The existing City Express hotel portfolio, consisting of approximately 150 properties, is now part of Marriott’s franchise system. These properties include urban, suburban, and extended stay offerings in Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Chile.. The transaction has increased Marriott’s presence in the CALA (Caribbean and Latin America) region by approximately 45 percent.

The City Express brand portfolio consists of five sub-brands: City Express, City Express Plus, City Express Suites, City Express Junior, and City Centro.

In the coming months, the City Premios loyalty program is expected to be retired during 2023, as it is integrated into the Marriott Bonvoy platform.

Hyatt further expands its luxury footprint with Mr & Mrs Smith
29 Apr '23

The announcement
Mr & Mrs Smith has announced an agreement for a Hyatt affiliate to acquire London-based Mr & Mrs Smith, a platform offering direct booking access to a carefully curated collection of over 1,500 boutique and luxury properties in some of the world’s most desirable locations. The transaction is anticipated to close in the second quarter of this year, subject to the usual closing conditions.

The move is the latest in a string of acquisitions and partnerships fuelling Hyatt’s expansion into luxury and lifestyle hotels as well as deepening its portfolio of European properties.

What it means for Hyatt
The planned acquisition of Mr & Mrs Smith is expected to build on Hyatt’s leadership position in luxury and further strengthen Hyatt’s distribution capabilities, especially across Europe - a region where Hyatt has historically been under-represented.

This acquisition builds on a transformative growth period for Hyatt in the last 12 months, which included the recently completed acquisition of Dream Hotel Group’s lifestyle brand and management portfolio and the conversion of a portfolio of over 30 franchise agreements with Lindner Hotels & Resorts and me and all hotels, as well as substantial organic growth of Hyatt’s global portfolio.

As a result of Hyatt’s expanded brand portfolio and ever-growing offering for every stay occasion, membership in the World of Hyatt loyalty program has more than tripled during the past five years.

Adding Mr and Mrs Smith could make 36-million-member Hyatt’s loyalty program more valuable to it users, complementing Hyatt’s offerings (eg expanding into Villas). Initially, Hyatt will  seek to leverage Mr & Mrs Smith’s one-million-strong membership base.

It aims to launch direct booking access to properties within the luxury specialist’s platform and also attract its members to the World of Hyatt program,

Benefits for World of Hyatt members
World of Hyatt members will gain access to even more global luxury of offerings across hundreds of geographies – including over 20 countries where there are currently no Hyatt hotels such as Fiji, Croatia, Iceland and Anguilla (though World of Hyatt members can find points-earning and redemption options in some of those places thanks to the program's affiliation with Small Luxury Hotels of the World).

Hyatt plans to unveil direct booking access to properties within the Mr & Mrs Smith platform through Hyatt’s distribution channels, including Hyatt.com and the World of Hyatt app.  Hyatt is exploring ways to enable World of Hyatt members to earn and redeem points across eligible hotels in the Mr & Mrs Smith collection.

IHG loses out
The deal comes at the expense of IHG Hotels & Resorts, which for a few years had a marketing partnership with Mr & Mrs Smith where IHG selectively offered to its loyalty members access to a few hundred of its 1,500 hotels in markets where IHG didn’t already have a strong presence of similar upscale properties like InterContinental, Kimpton or Six Senses.

Unfortunately, that partnership never really got onto solid ground from a loyalty program perspective.  

*  When staying at Mr & Mrs Smith hotels as an IHG One Rewards member, many travellers noted it was a clunky endeavour to book the hotels via IHG, and you often had to manually remove any other brand option but the Mr & Mrs Smith partnership in the search.

*  Disjointed loyalty recognition was another sticking point amid the IHG partnership, as IHG One Rewards members earned one set of benefits while those in IHG's separate InterContinental Ambassador and Kimpton Inner Circle members enjoyed elevated benefits at Mr & Mrs Smith properties

That deal presumably will end by the time this transaction closes.We expect that Hyatt’s experience with its SLH partnership will mean that many of these types of issues will not be faced by World of Hyatt members.

The fact that these hotels and others in the Mr & Mrs Smith ecosystem will now be part of Hyatt puts significant pressure on IHG to find a new partner with unique luxury properties to entice its members to remain loyal. This comes on the heels of several other challenges IHG has faced recently, including a planned Six Senses property in New York City that switched brand affiliation to Accor’s Faena label.

Parting thoughts
This acquisition will strengthen Hyatt’s position in the luxury traveller market, broadening the range of properties available and further addresses Hyatt’s historically small footprint in Europe relative to its main competitors. What we like most is Hyatt’s focus on quality and strategic acquisitions, rather than being drawn towards being bigger just for its own sake.


About Mr & Mrs Smith
Founded in 2003, Mr & Mrs Smith is the travel club for hotel lovers: an award-winning boutique and luxury hotel booking service specialising in the world’s most seductive stays. There are now more than 1,800 hotels and villas in the collection, all hand-picked and anonymously reviewed. 

Which is better for your next trip - Points or Cash?
16 Apr '23

Points and miles enthusiasts now have a new tool at their disposal to help find the best price on hotels around the world.

Combining real-time data Awayz claims 99% accurate price comparison from all sources for:
* hotel room pricing,
* points balances,
* award availability (up to 12 months) and
* credit card benefits.

After trialling it ourselves, we believe this is one travel subscription you must have. It will enhance your points and miles experience and save you $$$. Read More…

Accor ALL launches Flight+Hotel bookings - flexible & convenient
12 Apr '23

In its attempt to own more of the traveller experience from start to finish, AccorHotels  is enabling guests to book hotel and flight packages, who can choose from more than 200 AccorHotels properties in 30 destinations worldwide. The feature caters mostly to leisure travellers.

Flights choices come from multiple airlines, both network carriers and low-cost, and the booking engine

Key points are:

Save up to 20% off your booking​ - The best Flight + Hotel deals, negotiated by our ALL experts, all year round.
Customise your perfect package​ - Choose from our range of quality hotels worldwide and from any airline at your preferred flight time.
Earn points on every stay - Members of ALL earn Status points & Reward points on every package booked.
Save up to 20% off​​​ - Whenever, wherever you want, you will save 20% off all year round with a Flight+Hotel package.
Your holiday, your way​​​ - Choose from Accor's wide range of hotel, resort, and apartment brands worldwide, then select your preferred airline and you're ready to take-off.
Boost your points balance​​​ - Earn 1 Status point and 1 Reward point for every 2 euros you spend on a Flight+Hotel package. Note that ALL points are also earned on additional purchases during your stay.

Our thoughts - this is an attractive and convenient package for ALL members.  We like that you

1} can select any airline, not only ALL's alliance partners Air France/KLM or Qantas.  

Flights choices come from multiple airlines, both network carriers and low-cost, and the booking engine will automatically suggest the best flight schedule for the consumer. However, travelers can also change the flight options, and choose exactly which flights or airlines they wish to book, with the package cost adjusting automatically.

2) earn both reward points and status points on the flight portion
3) receive a significant discount to publicly available pricing.

On the downside,

1} The ALL Members' Rate and Accor Plus members' rate does not apply.
2) Member benefits during stay (welcome drink, complimentary breakfast, upgrades etc ) and bonus offers do not apply.
3) Payment with points does not apply to bookings online or at the hotel.

Overall, we like this development from Accor and ALL.  It is definitely worth checking out when planning your next (especially overseas) trip.
Read More…

Shangri-La Melbourne slated to open in 1Q2024 - not long to wait
7 Apr '23

60-storey luxury Shangri-La Melbourne arriving in less than 12 months

Part of the Sapphire by the Gardens development in the Melbourne CBD, Shangri-La Hotel Melbourne CBD will take up residence in one of two 60-storey-plus skyscrapers when it opens in Q1 2024.

The five star hotel will occupy the taller 62-floor tower, spread across approximately 57,114 sq m gross floor area. The other tower will house 325 luxury apartments. The two towers overlook Melbourne’s World Heritage-listed Carlton Gardens and will be connected by a Sky Lounge two-thirds of the way up.

Upon completion, Shangri-La Melbourne will incorporate an impressive range of luxury accommodation choices, including approximately 500 spacious guestrooms which will have a 50sq m average size and a couple of the bigger penthouses being about “six bays” – equating to about six guestrooms in size each.  Some of the well-appointed guestrooms, will have exquisite family rooms – the first of its kind in Australia – with Horizon Club guestrooms, Premier and Presidential Suites on the upper levels.

Shangri-La Hotel Melbourne will feature a striking façade embellished with champagne gold fins. The facility will also deliver the largest ballroom space in the city’s CBD with elegant six-metre-high ceilings. Other amenities will include restaurants, a lounge and bar, spa, fitness centre with gym and yoga space, as well as both a roof garden pool and indoor heated swimming pool.

Shangri-La is one of my favourite brands for city stays.  Shangri-La's newest Australian property is eagerly awaited.

JW Marriott enters the Luxury Safari market
4 Apr '23

Marriott today announced the opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, marking the company's highly anticipated debut in the luxury safari segment.

Sitting within the Masai Mara National Reserve in Southwestern Kenya, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife and wilderness conservation regions, the lodge is a sophisticated sanctuary from which to discover animals and breathtaking vistas in harmony. Exhilarating guided game drives offer guests the opportunity to observe the “Big Five” that Masai Mara is home to, including lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros, and elephants. Between June and September, the reserve is host to the annual great wildebeest migration, which sees more than 10 million animals travel a distance of 1,800 miles from the Serengeti in neighboring Tanzania.

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is a 30-minute drive from Keekorok Airstrip and a 25-minute drive from Sekenani Main Gate.

Bookings for JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge are now open with prices from US$1,450 per person, per night (all-inclusive board basis). For more information, visit www.marriott.com.or contact Neil at Rewarding Travel, our associated agency which is an affiliate of Fora Travel Inc.

Singita is the historical leader in this market, so it will be interesting to see how Marriott's new entrant will measure up.

Virgin Australia's "Low fare, more air" sale ends April 3
27 Mar '23

Virgin Australia today launched a new promotion - its Low fare, more air sale.   (advertiser)

Get up to 30% off fares to 35 local and international destinations, including (one-way) Melbourne to Gold coast from AUD 99, or Melbourne to Hamilton Island from AUD 139.  

Return flights are available from Melbourne to Bali from AUD 589 or  Melbourne to Fiji from AUD 559.

But be quick!   These prices only last until midnight (AEST) on April 3rd.  Other T&C's also apply.

RCYC's second ship to open for bookings to Bonvoy members before the public release
24 Mar '23

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will this week open reservations for the inaugural season of its second ship, Ilma, exclusively to top-tier members of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. Bonvoy members will be privy to nearly a month’s head-start on the opening for general sales.

Bookings for the 228-suite Ilma will be available first to Ambassador Elite members from 15 February 2023, then Titanium and Platinum Elite members from 24 February; and Gold and Silver Elite members from 2 March. From 9 March 2023, bookings will be made available to the public. The dates listed are in US timezone. 

As previously stated by RCYC, Ilma‘s itineraries will range from 7 to 10 nights and are slated to commence in 2024 in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. The program will also include transatlantic sailings between those regions.

RCYC boasts that Ilma will have “the highest ratio of space per guest at sea”. On board will be five restaurants, six bars and a wine vault.

Under construction by French shipyard Chantiers de l’Atlantique, Ilma will offer eight suite categories – all with private terraces, will feature seven restaurants (plus in-room dining), and a more spacious marina than RCYC’s first, 149-suite yacht, Evrima.

Ilma and Lumiere are nearly double the gross tonnage of Evrima, at 46,750 gross tonnes, versus 25,400 gross tonnes. The larger yachts will have a capacity of 456 guests compared to 298 on the original vessel.

Among the suite categories are the aptly named Ilma of which there are four, each running parallel with one another at the aft of the yacht on Deck 6. They range from 47-61 square metres internally and have a terrace of 27-28 square metres. 

According to deck plans, Ilma will feature its main restaurant called The Orche Room on Deck 3 which will offer an “ever-changing menu of dishes”. Branching off from The Orche Room is  a ‘Fine Dining’ venue that offers “tasting menu inspired by Europe’s Michelin-starred restaurants” and ‘Dining Privee’, billed as a “private enclave within The Ochre Room for an exclusive dining experience, the perfect setting for celebratory dinners and other special events.”

Ilma will offer a larger-scaled version of the Southeast Asian restaurant, Talaat Nam, however it doesn’t appear as though Evrima‘s S.E.A. dining venue has been carried over to the new yachts, based on information on the current deck plans. S.E.A. is a dining experience designed by Chef Sven Elverfeld, so the venue may remain unique to Evrima.

There also appears to be a new Juice Bar on Deck 4

Ilma‘s carbon-copy sister, Luminara, is forecast to take to the seas in 2025.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a Virtuoso Preferred member.

COMO looks to bring to Sydney its luxury ‘COMO Lifestyle’ – food and beverage, wellness & retail
4 Mar '23

COMO Hotels & Resorts expects to add an address in Sydney’s CBD to its global collection within the next two years.. The hospitality and wellness specialist has 16 properties around the world in Bali, Thailand, Bhutan, Maldives, Tuscany, London, Turks & Caicos, Australia (COMO The Treasury in Perth) and the group’s most recent addition, Fiji’s Laucala Island, which joined the luxury stable 14 months ago.

Representatives from COMO Hotels & Resorts have been travelling the country this week and last. Joining the delegation in Sydney from COMO’s HQ in Singapore was COMO’s Doris Goh, Vice President – Commercial. Goh offered insight on the brand to media, saying the Australian market was very important given its location to the bulk of COMO’s collection in Southeast Asia (three properties in Bali and two in both Thailand and Bhutan), the Maldives (two) and Fiji. She confirmed that Australian travellers were generating a significant share of business for COMO Laucala Island in Fiji. 

Sydney on the radar for Como

Domestically, COMO The Treasury has been part of the portfolio since its opening eight years ago in 2015. But when quizzed about further expansion in Australia and the potential of an asset on the east coast, Goh confirmed, “We’re looking at Sydney.” She said the NSW capital has been on the luxury hospitality company’s radar for some time.

“It’s always been the vision of COMO’s Founder, Christina Ong, to be in key gateway locations,” Goh said during her whirlwind visit. Pressed for a potential timeline for a Sydney debut of either 12 or 24 months, she flagged the latter duration.

Goh was tight-lipped on specific sites in Sydney, or if COMO had its eye on a take-over, restoration project or potential new build, or even a site inspection while she was in the country.

She did however state that Ong, is “very hands-on when it comes to food, wellness and aesthetics” at the brand’s hotels, and any new choice of property would be “personally curated by herself along with her choice of designers.” Paola Navone of OTTO studio is one interior designer Ong has used on existing COMO projects, including COMO Castello del Nero in Tuscany, Italy; COMO Point Yamu in Phuket, Thailand; and her latest work at COMO Le Montrachet in Burgundy, France. 

The name COMO itself is an acronym of the Founder’s initials and that of her daughter, Melissa Ong.

Growth and expansion

Announced in late 2021, COMO Le Montrachet will officially debut in June 2023 after a soft opening next month. The property, which dates back to 1842, is centered around a famous restaurant and an inn and will feature 30 rooms and suites. Nestled around the village square of Puligny-Montrachet (a village in the renowned wine region of Burgundy), the COMO Le Montrachet is spread across four heritage buildings that have been converted into chic sanctuaries. A COMO Shambhala Retreat is planned for the property in the future.

Also in June, Podere San Filippo will debut near the 740-acre COMO Castello Del Nero’s estate. The historic farmhouse has been converted into a modern family residence with 12 large and contemporary apartments – a mix of one- to three-bedrooms, some of which offer outdoor patios.

From 1 September 2023, COMO Hotels & Resorts will also “come home” to Singapore when COMO Metropolitan Singapore opens. Thirty years since the brand was last in the Lion City, the 150-room and suite property will feature Michelin Star restaurants, retail and fashion brands and a COMO Shambhala wellness facility. “At COMO Metropolitan Singapore, we are able to implement the entire ‘COMO Lifestyle’ – food and beverage, wellness, retail. It’ll be the first time we can bring it all together in one location,” she commented.

Additionally, COMO is set to welcome a second property in Italy in the northern alps – complementing its Tuscan retreat – and building on the brand’s existing presence in the Dolomites where it operates the COMO Shambhala Spa. Set within the five-star Alpina Dolomites Lodge for the past year, the ski resort will reposition as COMO Alpina Dolomites from December 2023. Not just a winter playground, Goh said the 30-room and suite Italian mountain resort is just as popular during summer months when the property commands higher rates than winter. It also has a very strong repeat business of 50%. Alpina Dolomites is currently a member of Leading Hotels of the World. It will close for enhancements to bring it in line with COMO standards. Goh did emphaise that the upgrade will “ensure that we do not take away the nuances that guests are familiar with and love.”

Further, Goh said the loyalty program of COMO Hotels & Resorts, COMOCLUB, is nearing the 1 million member mark. Now in it’s 29th year, COMOCLUB has over 800,000 members and has a “very engaged audience”, she said.


Gabi Vincent, Director of Sales and Marketing for COMO The Treasury said the Perth address is focused on immersive experiences guests can engulf themselves in while on-site within the heritage building. Home to six restaurants, four bars and ten retailers, COMO The Treasury offers a number of activations and curated experiences annually, such as Artists in Residence and ‘COMO Conversations’, alongside spring and festive campaigns to name a few.

To encourage more east-coasters to travel to the west for short breaks, COMO The Treasury partners with Ampersand Estates in Pemberton to coordinate five-night curated itineraries (two nights in Perth, three nights in the Margaret River region), to showcase the city and rural destinations.

Vincent also revealed that Singapore is driving the return of international visitors to the property, and that events at COMO have now kicked into another gear after the COVID drought.

More on COMO Hotels & Resorts at ... Read More…

Marriott Bonvoy Points Advance Feature Ends 28 March 2023
25 Feb '23

Marriott Bonvoy had a unique feature that allowed members to make an unlimited number of award reservations that were not backed up points in the accounts. Instead, you needed to have them 14 days before the intended stay. Under Bonvoy, the Points Advance has been devalued several times; the number of active award reservations without backed points was reduced to three, you needed to have the points within 60 days of making such a reservation or 14 days before the stay, and these reservations no longer locked in the points rates. 

Now, Marriott Bonvoy is ending them altogether on March 28, 2023, citing low demand as a reason.  You can access Marriott Bonvoy here.  

Important points to note:

• Rest assured, Reservations booked using Points Advance prior to March 28, 2023 will be honored.
• Remember, you must have the Points in your Account 60 days from the time of booking, or 14 days prior to arrival, whichever comes first. A Member may only have three (3) Points Advance Reservations at one time.

What happens if I need to modify or cancel my Points Advance Reservation between now and March 28, 2023?    
Prior to March 28, 2023, you may cancel or modify your Points Advance Reservations (e.g. change the dates or location, if available). You can modify or cancel your Points Advance Reservation in your Account profile on Marriott.com or the Marriott Bonvoy® Mobile App.

What happens if I need to modify or cancel my Points Advance reservation after March 28, 2023?    
Cancellation of the Points Advance Reservation is allowed, but always subject to the cancellation policy tied to the Reservation. If you are modifying the Reservation dates after March 28, 2023, it cannot rebooked as a Points Advance Reservation, only as a paid Stay.


Conclusion

Many Marriott Rewards members loved this program feature, because you could lock in the points reservations year in advance while planning your trips and firm them up or cancel closer to the intended stay while earning the required points.

Some members abused the feature, locking out other members from booking unti the last minute then cancelling unwanted trips. This led to changes limiting the number of active Points Advance reservations you can have at any one time.  The death knell though was more likely the move to dynamic pricing.  Reserving a room without knowing how many points you will need to redeem until using the booking was always going to lead to low demand among program members. All it did was signal demand to Marriott which would encourage a rise in rates (without the benfit of having locked in your own rate - better to delay the booking until certain.

I'm not surprised to see this option canned by Marriott. Far more useful is the cash + points feature which remains available - read more in our Guide to Marriott Bonvoy. Read More…

Qantas unlocks thousands of seats to book with Frequent Flyer points
24 Feb '23

Following the recently announced "million seat sale", Qantas is now releasing a huge amount of Classic Rewards space.

Qantas award availability has been notoriously hard to find, but Qantas is working on changing that perception. The Australian airline has announced the release of thousands of Classic Flight Reward seats starting Friday, February 24, 2023, at 11:00 am. Sydney time and and will include space in economy, business, and first class.

The release timing translates to:

• London 12:00 (midnight) Friday, February 24, 2023 — as Sydney is 11 hours ahead of GMT.
• New York: Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 7:00 pm — as Sydney is 16 hours ahead of NYC.
• Los Angeles: Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 4:00 pm — as Sydney is 19 hours ahead of LA.

According to the Qantas press release, the award availability will be across its entire international network featuring over 30 destinations. Also, Qantas is including all cabin classes in this award drop — including Classic Flight Rewards dropping in economy, business class, and first class.

Using Your Qantas Points

A quick glance at the Qantas Classic Flight Reward Chart makes it clear that longer awards in premium cabins are a little on the steep side. However, they are still a much better deal than the other, more expensive awards. Qantas prices its awards based on distance and which airline you are flying. 

Conclusion

Qantas Classic Rewards are the best way for Qantas members to maximize the value of their points. So, this is a great opportunity if you have some upcoming travel plans involving taking a Qantas flight. Remember that although Qantas is releasing all this award space, it is unclear if any of it will be making its way to Qantas’ Oneworld partners. So, if you see an award itinerary that works for you, you should strike while the iron is hot and have Qantas points at the ready.so you can quickly snap it up.

Qantas and Jetstar - New One Million (!) Seat Sale
23 Feb '23

Qantas and Jetstar have launched a one million seat sale with one-way fares available from A$39 on Jetstar and A$99 on Qantas.

Business class fares are available from A$499 on Qantas.

Between Qantas, QantasLink and Jetstar, the sales span more than 170 routes around Australia including capital cities and regional towns. Jetstar is also offering sale fares on more than 20 international routes, with fares starting from A$175 one-way.

“We’re seeing really strong demand as Australians continue to put travel at the top of their shopping list. We’ve been adding new routes to help meet that demand, especially to leisure destinations, and we’ve put a lot of sales into the market,” said Mr Joyce when launching this sale.

“This is the ninth network-wide sale from Qantas and Jetstar in the past six months and we have more planned,” added Mr Joyce.

This week, Qantas added tens of thousands of additional international reward seats – flights that can be booked for as few as 8,000 Qantas points – for its Frequent Flyers through December 31, 2023.

The airlines are encouraging customers with COVID credits – travel credit left over from the pandemic – to use them in booking their sale fares. COVID credits received during the pandemic expire at the end of 2023, with customers needing to book and travel before then. A dedicated hotline has been established to assist customers using their travel credit. Customers can call the Travel Credit Concierge Team on 1300 171 505 or visit the Travel Credits Hub online.

Virgin Atlantic is part of SkyTeam effective 2 March 2023
19 Feb '23

Virgin Atlantic announced at a press conference in London on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, that the airline would join the SkyTeam airline alliance. 

Now we have a bit more concrete timing. From March 2, 2023, London-based carrier Virgin Atlantic (VS) will become SkyTeam’s only U.K.-based airline. This is huge news for both U.K. and U.S. travelers, as routes between the 2 countries are the bulk of Virgin’s route network. Specifically, VS operates nonstop routes to the U.K. from Austin (AUS), Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Las Vegas (LAS), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), Orlando (MCO), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), Tampa (TPA), and Washington, D.C. (IAD).

As Virgin already has close ties with key airline members of SkyTeam such as Air France/KLM and Delta Air Lines, joining SkyTeam is a natural progression.

What We Know So Far About Virgin Atlantic Joining SkyTeam

Here is what we know so far:

• Virgin Atlantic will be admitted as a member from 2 March, 2023.
• Flying Club members will be able to earn and burn points with all alliance members. However, no rates have been announced.

In terms of elite status levels:

• Virgin Atlantic Silver will equate to SkyTeam Elite status.
• Virgin Atlantic Gold will get SkyTeam Elite Plus perks.

Elite members will receive the usual raft of benefits associated with status. These include priority check-in, baggage handling, lounge access, and more.

For more info see Virgin Atlantic FAQ on joining SkyTeam and SkyTeam's Statement on Virgin Atlantic becoming an alliance member.


Reciprocal Benefits
When Virgin Atlantic joins the alliance, frequent flyers will be able to spend and redeem their miles with up to an additional 15 airlines.

Perhaps even more exciting is that once Virgin joins the alliance, Flying Club elite status holders will receive SkyTeam Elite status, opening up reciprocal benefits with the other SkyTeam member airlines — and vice versa.

Virgin Silver members will receive SkyTeam Elite benefits, which include:

• Priority reservation wait list
• Preferred seating
• Priority check-in counters
• Priority or “at leisure” boarding
• Extra baggage allowance

However, it’s Virgin Gold members who will benefit from the full perks of the SkyTeam alliance. They’ll receive automatic Elite Plus benefits, which include:

• Guaranteed full-fare economy class (Y class) bookings on sold-out long-haul flights at least 24 hours before departure
• Worldwide access to lounges for the traveller and a guest, no matter the class of travel
• Priority baggage
• Extra baggage allowance.

Who may benefit the most?

Virgin will soon be joining Aerolineas Argentinas, AeroMexico, Air Europa, Air France, China Airlines, China Eastern, Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Garuda Indonesia, ITA Airways, Kenya Airways, KLM, Korean Air, Middle East Airlines, Saudia, TAROM, Vietnam Airlines, and Xiamen Airlines as part of the SkyTeam Alliance.

This development is most exciting for Virgin frequent flyers with Silver or Gold status who, until March 2, 2023, only have had some of the benefits of their status reciprocated with Air France/KLM and Delta.

For those travelers who already have SkyTeam status through another carrier, they will also benefit from the benefits of Virgin’s Flying Club. However, it's currently rumored that elites from other SkyTeam airlines won’t get access Virgin’s exclusive London Heathrow Clubhouse.

Potential Downsides - Will Sweet Spots Be Eliminated?

While it is great news for Virgin to join SkyTeam. Some Flying Club members will be concerned about what will happen to some of the best Flying Club redemption sweet spots. Currently, you can use your Virgin points for many excellent awards, including:

1. ANA first class from Japan to Europe or Central/Eastern US for 60,000 Virgin points each way plus taxes and fees.
2. Air New Zealand business class awards from New Zealand to either North or South America for 125,000 Virgin points round-trip plus taxes and fees.

Unfortunately, both Air New Zealand and ANA are members of Star Alliance. This puts them in direct competition with many of Virgin Atlantic’s new (SkyTeam) alliance partners. Will these great deals remain, or is the time up for these excellent redemption options? Only time will tell.


We can only hope that Virgin Atlantic joining SkyTeam leads to new excellent redemption opportunities within the alliance.

Capella Sydney Opening Date Confirmed - book while you still can!
12 Feb '23

Further to our post of 30 October 2022, Capella Sydney, the first Australian property in the Capella Hotels and Resorts portfolio, is now accepting reservations for arrivals beginning 15 March 2023.

It is the newest 5-star hotel in the Sydney CBD and includes 192 guestrooms (such as the one pictured) and suites, anchored by three ground-level food and beverage outlets: Aperture, Brasserie 1930 and McRae Bar.  . 

For travellers unfamiliar with this luxury brand, “The Capella brand is synonymous with luxury, excellence in the craft of hospitality and cultural immersion. Capella Sydney takes this to the next level through unparalleled experiences that go above and beyond the expected, underscored by world-class accommodation and dining,” said Marc von Arnim, Capella Sydney’s General Manager.

The beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites are replete with deluxe textiles, standalone tubs, custom Italian Frette linen and exclusive Haeckels amenities. Guestrooms at Capella Sydney offer an abundance of space, volume and natural light. Starting at 46 square metres, each room features curated artwork, sumptuous furnishings and intriguing objet d’art complete with luxurious pillow-top beds fitted with custom Italian Frette linen and exclusive Haeckel’s amenities

The  guestrooms start from AU$530 per night (Superior rooms - 46 square metres), while the uppermost jewel, the 235-square-metre Capella Suite on the ninth floor, boasts the largest offering in the portfolio, starting from AU$6,430 per night.  

To make a booking for this gorgeous new property in the heart of Sydney, contact our associated Travel Advisor, Neil McPherson at Rewarding Travel, and ask what perks he may be able to add to make your stay even more special.

Bonvoy Members to Earn Less For Africa Stays
12 Feb '23

Marriott recently announced some bad news to Bonvoy members planning to stay in Africa.

As of March 1, 2023, Marriott Bonvoy members will only earn 5X points at Protea Hotels (joining the other brands of Homes & Villas, Residence Inn, TownePlace Suites, and Element) and 1 Elite Night Credit for every 2 nights stayed. Here are the details of this change. 

Protea Hotels by Marriott

Marriott acquired Protea Hotels in 2013. As of 2023, Protea operates 64 properties spread across 9 countries in Africa — primarily South Africa, but also in  Algeria, Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. Marriott advertises Protea Hotels as mid-range, 4 to 5-star properties. 


Marriott's Reduction of the Earning Rate of Protea Hotels 

Until now, Marriott Bonvoy members earned the usual 10 points per dollar spent and 1 Elite Night Credit per night at Protea Hotels. As of March 1, 2023, those earnings will be cut in half.

Bonvoy members will only earn 5 points per dollar spent. Elite Night Credits will only be given for every two nights stayed. In other words, half an Elite Night Credit per night.

These changes go into effect on March 1, 2023. The change will be based on the checkout date, not on the booking date. In other words, every stay with a checkout date on or after March 1 will receive half rewards — regardless of when you booked
Conclusion

This certainly isn't good news for Marriott Bonvoy members looking to stay at Protea properties in Africa after March 1, 2023.  

Hopefully t his is not the beginning of a devaluation for Marriott Bonvoy points across several brands (again).

200 Meliá Hotels Receive 2023 Traveller Review Awards
7 Feb '23

Meliá Hotels International has had another successful year in the Booking.com Traveller Review Awards.

More than 200 of the company’s hotels have been rewarded this year for their exceptional performance and for having achieved a satisfaction rating above 8 in the reviews made by thousands of customers on Booking.com The award winners include hotels from all over the world and from all of the different company brands.

Among the more than 200 hotels, some of the company’s most luxurious properties achieved the highest scores, along with some of the most outstanding of the recently opened hotels: ME Barcelona, a new icon for luxury hotels in one of the most popular cities in Spain, and Villa Le Blanc, a Gran Meliá Hotel, which has revolutionised the luxury resort segment in Menorca by becoming the first carbon-neutral hotel in the destination.

Other luxury hotels operated by the company performed well, including the Meliá Serengeti Lodge, Member of Meliá Collection (Tanzania), located in one of the most stunning natural environments in the world and with an approach to sustainability which has helped it earn the highest score among all the company’s hotels.

Other strong performers include the Gran Meliá Iguazu (Argentina), which offers a luxurious experience with views of one of the most famous waterfalls in the world, and the Gran Meliá Xi’an, one of the luxury hotels the company operates in China.

The Meliá Hotels & Resorts brand achieved high scores with both its city and resort hotels in Asia: Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort (Vietnam), Meliá Vinpearl Hue (Vietnam) and Meliá Chiang Mai (Thailand).

Among other hotels operated under other brands that have achieved outstanding scores are: INNSIDE Liverpool (UK) and INNSIDE Lima Miraflores (Peru), Paradisus Los Cabos and Paradisus Playa del Carmen (Mexico), Sol Beach House Ibiza (Spain) and Sol Oasis Marrakech (Morocco).


If you would like to stay at an award-winning hotels mentioned above, you can discuss with pur associated Travel Advisors booking with one of the brands of Meliá.. Meliá have properties in Asia, Europe and the Americas. They also have a loyalty program -  learn more about how it may benefit you in our comprehensive Guide to Meliá Rewards.

Jumeirah Expands Presence in Europe with Key Acquisition in Geneva
7 Feb '23

Jumeirah Group, the global luxury hospitality company, today announced the acquisition of its first property in Switzerland as it continues its growth trajectory and international expansion.

The flagship property - Le Richemond - was founded in 1875 and is located on the banks of Lake Geneva in a prime location at the heart of the city’s business district and a short walk from the city’s luxury designer boutiques.

Jumeirah’s new property in Geneva is its fifth in Europe, joining The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, and Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel in London, UK; Capri Palace Jumeirah on the island of Capri, Italy; and Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa in Mallorca, Spain. Jumeirah Group, which originated in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, has a portfolio of 26 hotels and resorts across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. .

The art deco property with its charm and grandeur has been a popular destination for well-known personalities throughout the years. The hotel features 87 rooms and 22 suites, boasting stunning views across Lac Léman and the mountain peaks of Mont Blanc.

The property will undergo extensive renovations, which will commence as soon as possible, to reposition and elevate the guest experience to a level consistent with Jumeirah’s brand expectations. Jumeirah plans to introduce its signature wellness and fitness concepts and will also focus on bringing its culinary expertise to the banks of Lake Geneva.

The move signals Jumeirah’s appetite for investment in key cities that support the diversification of its portfolio and build brand equity as a globally recognised luxury hotel operator. Geneva, as a thriving city, synonymous with luxury living, a strong international business community and a robust high-end tourism sector, will support Jumeirah’s vision to become one of the world’s top five luxury hotel brands.

Meliá Hotels ranked as the most sustainable company in the world in the category of Hotels, Resorts and Cruises.
4 Feb '23

After the recent assessment by S&P Global ESG – the most comprehensive and prestigious international sustainability performance analysis, which evaluates more than 10,000 companies from all over the world –  Meliá Hotels International, has once again been ranked as the most sustainable company in the world in the category of Hotels, Resorts and Cruises.

Meliá has achieved the top position in both the Social and the Economic and Governance dimensions, and particularly high scores in such important areas as climate strategy, human rights, human capital development and customer relations.

As Meliá says."our passion inspires us to respond to the global challenges faced by our planet and continue to move forward to offer you an increasingly more sustainable experience in our hotels".

If sustainability is impotant to you, booking with one of the brands of Meliá is highly worthy of your consideration. Meliá have properties in Asia, Europe and the Americas. They also have a loyalty program -  learn more about how it may benefit you in our comprehensive Guide to Meliá Rewards.

2023 hotel openings - our "can't wait to stay" list
29 Jan '23

Exciting New Properties Opening in 2023

There are many brands opening new properties globally this year, as the worst of the global pandemic may be behind us. This is our ” bakers dozen” list of properties opening in 2023 that we are super excited about and can barely wait to book, listed in geographic regions.  With most of these, booking through Rewarding Travel can provide you with luxury perks (eg daily breakfast, room upgrade st availability...) at no additional cost.

It’s going to be a busy year…

1.  Raffles London at The OWO (2Q 2023)
An architectural masterpiece, the Old War Office on Whitehall (OWO) is undergoing a meticulous restoration to create the Raffles’s first UK hotel.  OWO dates back to 1906 and is famed for housing influential leaders. These include Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George and John Profumo. It also inspired Ian Fleming to write the James Bond series after working here as a key liaison.
The landmark building has undergone a monumental transformation and now features 120 lavish guestrooms and suites, 85 spectacular private residences, 9 ultra-stylish restaurants and 3 bars, bars including one gracing the rooftop with views across The Mall on to Buckingham Palace.

 An exclusive Guerlain spa and member’s health club (a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, saunas and steam rooms ) by movement and nutrition experts Pillar will offer private memberships for locals in the know.

2. The Peninsula, London (May 2023)
Swish Hong Kong hotel group Peninsula – famed for its Rolls-Royce fleets, crisp-suited bellboys and want-for-nothing service – is finally landing in London. Located at one of the most prestigious addresses in the British capital, overlooking Hyde Park Corner and the Wellington Arch, The Peninsula London is bringing the best of British – culture, art, and cuisine – to this new build in Belgravia.

Expect Peninsua’s usual sleek and understated elegance in each of its 190 rooms, while several destination restaurants, a Peninsula Spa (including a 25m indoor pool ) and a grand ballroom are also on-site. The Peninsula London also features a one-storey shopping arcade, with nine retail shops housing international luxury brands keeping luxury style very close at this new central London location.

 3. Mandarin Oriental. Mayfair (2Q 2023)
The luxury hotel chain is expanding its presence in London with the opening of Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London providing a smaller, more intimate sister property to the award-winning Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in nearby Knightsbridge. Situated on Hanover Square, Mayfair’s oldest square, the hotel will provide a calming, discreet sanctuary for hotel guests.

The property comprises 50 guestrooms and 78 private residences in the heart of Mayfair, one of London's most stylish neighbourhoods. Taking advantage of its world-class location within walking distance of London's admired fashion houses on Bond Street and the boutiques of Saville Row, as well as art galleries, the new hotel will offer guests and Fans of MO ( its loyalty program ) exclusive access and experiences from high fashion to art, culture, and dining. It will also house the first namesake Akira Back restaurant in the UK from Michelin Star award winning Chef Akira Back, as well as his 'ABar Lounge' concept. There will also be an urban spa, focussed on renewal and recalibration, featuring an indoor 25-metre swimming pool, sauna, vitality pool, relaxation room and a myriad of bespoke wellness treatments.

4. Adagio London Whitechapel (Late 2023)
For guests who desire the helpful services of a hotel and the freedom to live like a local in a neighbourhood apartment, Adagio offers an easy balance of both. Designed for longer stays, the 147 serviced apartments conveniently located on Whitechapel Road in East London will provide one or two-bedroom apartments, complete with kitchens.

5. 100 Princes Street  Edinburgh (August 2023)
Red Carnation Hotels’ group first Scottish property is to be 100 Princes Street, whose name is a nod to their illustrious address on one of Edinburgh’s most famous streets. The interiors – designed by the team behind Ashford Castle in Ireland – will be full-blown Scottish chic with custom-made tartan by Araminta Campbell, roaring fires and a central staircase with a hand-painted mural of Scottish explorers by Croxford and Saunders restoring the former Overseas League building to its former glory. There’ll be just 30 guest rooms, some looking to Edinburgh castle, and a staff ratio of 2:1, so you know service will be a priority.

6. Six Senses Rome (March 2023)
For their new Rome hotel, Six Senses painstakingly restored parts of a Roman 15th-century compound, including the exterior Renaissance facade and interior staircase. Architect Patricia Urquiola is masterminding the interiors - guest rooms feature traditional cocciopesto plasterwork, locally-sourced travertine limestones, and sun-drenched terraces. Located steps from the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain, overlooking via del Corso, it is a great place to rest after a long day exploring the city. They currently have an opening offer, valid until 30th of April:- 15% off best flexible rate.- Includes: breakfast, upgrade upon availability, a welcome drink, use of Roman Baths, Sleep questionnaire, bedding and sleep tracker and access to their Earth Lab. From Deluxe Suite onwards receive a one-way Airport transfer as well and a 20-minute skin instant lab. Contact RewardingTravel for more details.

7. Bulgari, Rome
The eternal city’s hotel scene is seeing an injection of fresh style with new branches of Nobu Hotels and Six Senses, plus the boutique ROMEO, in a 16^th century palazzo. But top of our must-visit list for OTT luxury is Bulgari Rome. This Italian brand owns hotels as far afield as Shanghai and Bali, but finally opens its flagship on home city turf this coming spring or summer. Set in a 1930s modernist building dripping in travertine marble and red brick, it’s sure to be the epitome of more-is-more Bulgari style with warm jewel tones, fabulous artwork and unashamedly luxurious suites.

8.  Anantara Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi. (April 2023)
Following extensive restoration and renovation works, the heritage hotel – occupying a 13th-century monastery and former Cappuccini Friars Convent – will be restored to its original glory. The historic 52 guest room and suite  property will reveal new-look accommodation, refreshed dining concepts and a completely redesigned spa, all perched on a clifftop 80 metres above sea level with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Coast.

9. Maison Delano Paris (Early 2023)
Located in the heart of the ultra-chic 8th Arrondissement, Maison Delano Paris is an oasis within the bustling city. Occupying an 18th century courtyard building at 4 Rue d’Anjou, this is a place to experience exceptional and exclusive culinary concepts by three-star Michelin Chef Dani García, a fresh perspective on wellness and hyper-exclusive curated moments.

10. COMO Le Montrachet (2Q 2023)
Fine wine plus a fine spa – what else do you need? Launching in picturesque Burgundian village Puligny-Montrachet , COMO Le Montrachet is the latest (and first French) property in the wellness-focused COMO resort group is a celebration of life’s good things. Spread across four 18^th century stone buildings, serene contemporary suites will channel pure Gallic serenity; meanwhile the Shambala Retreat spa will turn out deep tissue massages and hydrating facials. The restaurant will come with a superb Burgundian wine list, of course. Prefer spirits? Look instead to another exciting French opening: La Nauve, a former cognac distillery turned hotel near the Charente river.  Teasingly Olivier Jolivet, CEO of the COMO Group has said that “ Besides Europe, we will also add a new luxury resort in the South Pacific to the portfolio next year.”  (ie 2024)
.
The COMO Group is an international privately-owned company with long-term investments in the world of fashion, wellness, high-level sports and luxury hotels. The group also supports its philanthropic mission through the COMO Foundation. Its subsidiary, COMO Hotels and Resorts, includes 14 international properties. Destinations in APAC include Bali, the Maldives, Bhutan, Thailand and Australia. In the Americas, the group own and operate a private island in the Turks and Caicos. In Europe, The COMO Group operates two city hotels in London and a resort in Tuscany.

11. The Standard, Singapore (late 2023)
Opening right off Singapore’s famed Orchard Road is the Standard Singapore, which aims to enhance the city’s already vibrant cultural scene with its buzzy, night-life-focused brand. In addition to their 143 rooms will be a signature restaurant, an infinity pool, and a bar set within a botanical courtyard. 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 for irreverent and playful sensibility".

12. Capella Sydney (March 2023)
The first property for Capella Hotels and Resorts to open in Australia will be housed in a magnificent heritage-listed sandstone building, centrally located just a short walk from the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge Capella Sydney is all about contemporary luxury balanced with the historical Edwardian-Baroque features – grand soaring ceilings, marble-clad foyer – with contemporary design, international art and 70 species of local floral on a seven-metre-tall ‘green wall’ of this 100-year-old building. Guests will also be granted access to the private Living Room – a signature of Capella properties across the world. Here, local pros or Capella Culturists will be on hand to organise guest activities both in and outside the hotel.

Over eight levels, 192 guest rooms and suites feature walnut wood, natural stones and deluxe textiles with standalone tubs, custom Italian Frette linen and Haeckel’s amenities in the bathroom. Three ground-level bars and restaurants include Brasserie 1930 and McRae Bar is a modern rendition of a Victorian-era drinking den. On level six is an Aruga spa, fitness centre, yoga platform and 20-metre heated indoor swimming pool. While the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are all within walking distance.

13. The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne (March 2023)
At the Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, which promises to be Australia’s tallest hotel, check-in happens at the Sky Lobby, 80 floors above the city. All of the hotel’s high-rise rooms, spread across levels 63 to 79, will have stunning views of the city and Port Phillip Bay. 

 A sharp eye for design, and two highly respected chefs are set to be the calling cards of Australia's latest Ritz-Carlton, delivering local, seasonal and cutting-edge cuisine across the luxury hotel's culinary offering. The restaurant will sit a cool 80 floors above the CBD alongside the lobby, and below it will lie a holistic wellness spa that includes a heated indoor infinity pool, spa, sauna and yoga studio.  The 257 carefully appointed rooms will feature interiors with custom leather and velvet furniture, handmade glass panels and marble bathrooms with art works by local artists gracing the walls.



Exciting Renovated Properties that will Re-Open in 2023

Not quite "new" but having had significant renovations or refurbishments, these half-dozen properties are also on our list. 

1.  The Dorchester: London
The Dorchester has been a London icon for the last 90 years, and now it's slated to debut its largest renovation since the '80s next year. French designer Pierre-Yves Rochon is redesigning the hotel's entrance, promenade, guest rooms and suites, along with a new Cake & Flower boutique. The legendary Martin Brudnizki Design Studio is redesigning the famous cocktail bar, which is now dubbed Vesper Bar.

2.  The Royce Hotel, Melbourne (4Q 2023)
What do you want from your next trip to Melbourne: a culture hit or a dose of nature? At The Royce, sitting on the border of the CBD and South Yarra’s parklands, you can enjoy both. This 1920s gem is being restored to its art deco glory, complete with a 14-metre high marble fireplace in the lobby lounge and a two-metre wide chandelier. The name pays tribute to its former roles as Rolls Royce (Australia) HQ and major showroom.  
The latest refurbishment, which aims to immerse guests in glamour with its 94 guest rooms, a marble staircase and fireplace, 24-hour concierge, and a swanky bar. In the rooms, freestanding baths, Molton Brown amenities and botanical wallpaper will round out this trendy South Yarra spot.

3.  Le Meridien Melbourne (early 2023)
From its Bourke Street perch, Le Meridien Melbourne will bring a touch of French flair to the theatre district. Expect plenty of surprises behind the art deco façade including an immersive arts program, house-made gelato and a dazzling rooftop pool deck with views looking over Parliament House towards Fitzroy Gardens.  The Parliament end of Bourke Street will welcome back Le Méridien to Australian shores. Originally built as a hotel in the 1850s before going through lives as a cinema, nightclub and theatre, the building will return to its origins as a hotel for the first time in decades. The 235-room hotel is set to have expansive views over the Royal Botanic Gardens along with a rooftop pool deck.

4.  Fairmont Port Douglas
Port Douglas is where the rainforest meets the reef and luxury brand Fairmont promises that its new Port Douglas resort will immerse guests in the area’s spectacular nature.enabling them to  connect with nature amidst eco-friendly luxury.  Expect organic architecture, a treetop walk, and butterfly nets above the children’s swimming pool, as well as an operating philosophy focused on sustainability.

5.  Manly Pacific, Sydney
A seaside favourite gets a new lease of life courtesy of the MGallery Hotel Collection and designers Coco Republic, who have given Manly’s best-located hotel (right on the foreshore)  a five-star makeover. Apart from the spa and the rooftop pool, highlights include a French bistro and Tokyo Joe restaurant, featuring sushi, sashimi and more courtesy of an ex-Nobu chef..

6.  W Sydney (October 2023)
Darling Harbour’s distinctive new development has already attracted plenty of attention for its eye-catching architecture. It will become even more of a landmark once W Sydney opens with all the modern pizzazz of the W brand . With 585 stylish guest rooms and suites occupying 25 floors with spectacular Darling Harbour views and interiors inspired by the waterfront location (think powder blue tiles and deep circular tubs and stunning Sydney views) we expect this will be one of the city’s buzziest hotels. 
Forming part of the development that includes an IMAX theatre and a retail wing. W Sydney features a two-storey rooftop bar, Level 29 WET® Deck with a heated 30m infinity pool, AWAY® Spa, FIT gym, all-day restaurant, Living Room bar, 1300sqm of event space and direct access to Darling Harbour waterfront precinct, and links across Cockle Bay and Sydney’s International Convention Centre (ICC).). .

The Standard Melbourne confirmed on track for June 2023 opening
28 Jan '23

Speaking recently with Rowan Hand VP Global Sales for Standard International, he confirmed that the timing for the opening of The Standard Melbourne in Fitzroy's hip Rose Street remains on track for June 2023.

The Standard, Fitzroy will come to life as a 127-room hotel built over seven levels (including a rooftop bar), with design cues inspired heavily by the local area and its long-standing industrial heritage.

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 for irreverent and playful sensibility".

The Standard is also a pet-friendly group of hotels.  So depending on your preferred vibe, you can choose to book your stays with either Kimpton or The Standard properties and know that you pet will be made very welcome (read "pampered").

See also our post of 4 August 2022, when we first brought this news to our readers.

Bonza sale ! Australia's new carrier has fares starting from $49
27 Jan '23

After much fanfare around its arrival, Australian low-cost carrier Bonza is finally open for business. 

Twelve destinations on 15 routes are on sale for travel until late October 2023, with fares starting from just $49 one way.  

The carrier’s first flight will take place on Tuesday, 31 January, from the airline’s Sunshine Coast home base to the Whitsunday Coast.

Bonza says flights from its second base at Melbourne Airport should go on sale in the next few weeks. 


Among the routes to go on sale from today are Sunshine Coast to Coffs Harbour ($49), Newcastle ($59), Albury ($69), Avalon ($79), Whitsunday Coast ($59) and Cairns ($79).

Flights from Cairns to Mackay ($49) and Rockhampton ($59), Rockhampton to Townsville ($49) and Newcastle to Whitsunday Coast ($79) are also on sale from today.

“The wait is over! 2023 is the Year for Australia, with low cost air travel to many holiday spots, some of which are relatively undiscovered. It’s time to see more of your own backyard for less,” Bonza chief commercial officer Carly Povey said.

The airline’s promise

Bonza says that the flights on sale indicate “what’s here to stay” for the airline. 

“It’s important that Aussie travellers know we’re on sale, not having a sale. We’re committed to low cost fares which will in turn, stimulate new markets for Australia’s domestic tourism industry,” Povey added.

“We’re confident whenever customers choose to travel, all our fares and not just our starting fares will represent great value.”

Meanwhile, Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Andrew Brodie said Bonza’s launch into the Sunny Coast would be a massive boost to two-way tourism.

“The Sunshine Coast is a wonderful place to holiday and visit and now with Bonza, more people can experience our beautiful region,” Brodie remarked.

“Not only will people choose to holiday here, they will also use our airport to easily connect through to other regions making travel for our regional visitors a whole lot easier.”

The first Hyatt hotel to open its doors in Scotland announced on Burns Night 2023
25 Jan '23

Fittingly on Burns Night,Hyatt has announced the opening of SCHLOSS Roxburghe (pictured), marking the debut of the Destination by Hyatt brand in the United Kingdom. 

“As the first Hyatt hotel to open its doors in Scotland and the 14^th property in the UK, this immersive country retreat reflects the growing demand from World of Hyatt members and guests for discovery-filled experiences in some of Britain’s most sought-after locations,” said Arnaud de Saint-Exupery, area vice president of Hyatt in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Just a few miles from the scenic market town of Kelso, and an hour from Edinburgh and Newcastle, SCHLOSS Roxburghe raises the bar on luxury for travellers seeking a tranquil, rural escape in Scotland. In keeping with the brand’s ambition to build a distinct portfolio of luxury properties that connect guests with people, cultures and places, the property capitalizes on the growing demand from travelers seeking to escape their daily routine in style. The extensive range of amenities across SCHLOSS Roxburghe’s 300 acres of scenic countryside gives guests a true sense of place.

Formerly owned by the Duke of Roxburghe, the elegant countryside retreat offers a total of 78 guestrooms and suites, all within or nearby the historic manor house and The Estate House. Looking ahead, the property is set to introduce 50 additional cottages, planned to be available to guests early in 2023.

Located in the beautiful woodlands on the SCHLOSS Roxburghe estate, surrounded by wildlife and right next to the golf course, each of the 12 cottages benefits from having additional living space, fitted kitchens and furnished garden terraces. These additional amenities allow guests the added flexibility to appreciate and take advantage of the hotel’s services while having the option enjoy to an intimate dining experience provided by the property or themselves in the privacy within their own home-away-from-home.

Featuring striking high ceilings and decorated with a combination of Scottish tartans, the 20 guestrooms and suites located inside and adjacent to the historic main house feature oak wood, natural stone, and sumptuous textiles. These beautifully furnished rooms are each unique in character and highlight the eternal beauty and history of the time-honored building.

Extravagant fittings and fixtures such as four-poster beds and private balconies can be found within The Estate House. Offering some of the finest views of the estate, these 58 additional guestrooms are spacious and flooded with light, providing stylish, yet modern comfort in the most enchanting of settings.

Guests in all accommodation categories are able to take full advantage of the wealth of facilities across the stately grounds.

An oasis of calm

The 12,000 square foot (1,100 square meter) SCHLOSS Spa is a first-class wellbeing facility which includes an outdoor heated infinity swimming pool, complete with an underwater sound system. It is accompanied by a plunge pool and hot tub, allowing guests to truly soak up the hotel’s serene atmosphere.

To further set the stage for guests to dive into the estate’s natural beauty while pampering their soul, the large, 6,400 square foot (600 square meter) relaxation area features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the landscaped grounds and rolling views toward the Scottish Borders.

For the ultimate indulgence, three treatment rooms ensure guests can take full advantage of the soothing range of natural treatments available. The luxury spa also offers a fully equipped fitness suite plus a rustic Finnish dry sauna and a glass-fronted aromatic sauna, both with pool views.

The great outdoors

In addition to a myriad of scenic walking trails, the dog-friendly facilities also include extensive outdoor pursuits, ensuring anyone staying at SCHLOSS Roxburghe is perfectly placed to take full advantage of the unspoiled countryside.

Capitalizing on its enviable surroundings, the property boasts its own Country Sports Centre, ideal for those interested in tapping into the wealth of more adventurous activities on their doorstep. From salmon fishing along the River Teviot to field sports such as archery and clay pigeon shooting, the venue’s expert team will help unleash guests’ competitive sides in one of Scotland’s most spectacular settings.

The hotel also offers an 18-hole championship golf course that maximizes the landscape’s natural topography, embedded amongst glorious rivers and mature woodlands, providing an enjoyable and challenging game for golfers of every level.

Upscale Food and Beverage Experiences

Guests and local residents alike have two on-site gastronomic experiences alongside a tearoom and various lounges to choose from, each serving up a modern twist on traditional Scottish cuisine. These include Charlie’s restaurant, with its curated ‘Scottish bistronomy’ themed menu and terrace, and the cosmopolitan, fine cuisine of Sunlaws. The Drawing Room, meanwhile, provides the perfect spot for a sumptuous afternoon tea.

Under the guidance of Executive Head Chef Olivier Borja and the vision of the hotel’s culinary director Mark Drummond, the gourmet menus prioritize fresh, local produce to help elevate the hotel’s culinary experience. Having studied catering in the Scottish Borders before working his way up the ranks in prestigious London establishments, Drummond is perfectly placed to provide guests with a truly memorable dining experience. Key to showcasing the local area and delivering a modern twist on traditional Scottish fare will be SCHLOSS Roxburghe’s ‘Estate to plate’ philosophy, with many ingredients grown within the hotel’s own grounds

Guests also have a wide choice of places to enjoy a relaxing beverage while taking in the spectacular views across the grounds. Whether pulling up a stool at Bar 1745 – the sophisticated and cozy library bar with a roaring open fire – or enjoying a fine wine in the fire-lit State Room Lounge, there are plenty of opportunities to relax in style.

The property’s purpose-built banqueting suite and extensive meetings facilities also make the hotel an unforgettable choice for weddings and conferences alike.



What is Destination by Hyatt ?

Hyatt says that "the Destination by Hyatt brand is a diverse collection of independent hotels, resorts and residences that are individual at heart yet connected by a commitment to embody the true spirit of each location. Ranging from upper-upscale to luxury, each property is purposefully crafted to be a place of immersive discoveries, authentic design, and warm and welcoming service. As an honored host, each Destination by Hyatt location connects guests to both people and place—offering a sense of belonging that invites all to make our destination yours"

Bonza Receives Certification To Commence Flying
14 Jan '23

Bonza, the startup Australian budget airline on January 12 received an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) after the carrier submitted final documents and successfully completed proving flights. 

The AOC is required before an airline is permitted to fly scheduled passenger-carrying flights in Australia..

The airline is now “finalising its preparations to go on sale” with the first flights to fly out of the Sunshine Coast followed by Melbourne.

Bonza was cryptic about the exact date tickets would go on sale, with chief executive Tim Jordan saying it would welcome people aboard “soon”. 

However, Bonza's initial 27 routes linking 17 destinations was also released.  The airline says 93 per cent of its routes are not currently served by any other airline and 96 per cent currently have no low cost carrier.

Australians who are looking to book a flight with Bonza are urged to download the airline’s app, which is the only way they will be able to book outside of a small group of local travel agents.

Bonvoy adds ability to convert Krisflyer Miles to Bonvoy Points
14 Jan '23

KrisFlyer have announced that you can now convert points and miles between both programs. While you have been able to convert your Marriott points to Singapore miles for a long time, the ability to transfer your Singapore miles to Marriott points is new.

The new two-way conversion ability is a new trend from Marriott and seems to be aimed at enhancing the value of their points and program. However, the conversion rates leave a lot to be desired.

You can currently convert points and miles between both programs as follows:

• from Singapore KrisFlyer Miles to Marriott Bonvoy points at a ratio of 2:1.
• from Marriott Bonvoy points to Singapore KrisFlyer miles at a ratio of 3:1.

This news is the second one in a short period of time after Marriott just recently announced new two-way transfers between its program and Korean Air SkyPass. Perhaps this will be a Marriott trend for 2023, but we will have to wait and see if more programs will follow.


Marriott Two-way Conversion Partners

The following programs now offer two-way conversion between themselves and Marriott Bonvoy.

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles	2:1
HawaiianMiles	2:1
Korean Air SkyPass	2:1
Singapore KrisFlyer	2:1
United Mileage Plus (Premier status members only)	1:1

Is Transferring Marriott Points to Singapore KrisFlyer Miles Good Value?

In short  No.

Our redemption value for Singapore KrisFlyer miles is USD 24.90 per 1,000 miles. On the other hand, we value Marriott Bonvoy points at USD 10 per 1,000 points.

At a transfer ratio of 2:1, you would exchange around USD 49.80 worth of Singapore miles for USD 10 worth of Marriott Bonvoy points. This is a clearly not a good idea!

On the other hand, transfers from Marriott to Singapore at a ratio of 3:1can make more sense.   In effect, you would exchange around USD 30 worth of Marriott points value for USD 24.90 worth of Singapore miles value. Although this seems like a bit of a loss, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer offers some excellent award options that could make it worthwhile, especially for aspirational awards on Singapore Airlines' own planes.


When Should You Convert Singapore KrisFlyer Miles to Marriott Bonvoy Points ?

There are a couple of instances when converting your KrisFlyer miles to Marriott Bonvoy points can make sense.

 *  Singapore miles expire after 36 months, and you cannot extend their validity without paying a hefty fee. Therefore if you have a bunch of miles that are about to expire and don’t want to use them or hand over the cash, transferring them can be an excellent get-out.

*  Another option is if you are a few Marriott points short of a redemption and need to boost your balance. Although transferring a few thousand Singapore miles works out as a loss, it is still valuable if it lets you hit an aspirational award. Just make sure you exhaust your other options first, as you  also transfer Amex Membership Rewards points to Marriott Bonvoy at a ratio of 1:1. There have been transfer bonus offers in the past, so you might be able to get an even better transfer rate during one of these promotions.

Overall

The news that you can convert Singapore KrisFlyer miles to Marriott Bonvoy points is a welcome. if minor enhancement. as it gives members more options to use their points. It's always nice to gain the flexibility to ytsmsfer your points from one program to another — even in circumstances mainly limited to the need to top up an account or avoid point expiration.