Kimpton Secret Password - use before it self-destructs September 4
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 further expands its luxury footprint with Mr & Mrs Smith
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.
2023 hotel openings - our "can't wait to stay" list
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 16th 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 18th 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).). .
Six Senses wins award for Best Luxury Hotel Brand from LTI - 3rd year in a row
Luxury Travel Intelligence (LTI) has taken the past 12 months to apply a rigorously defined algorithm that measures the
performance and values of luxury hotel brands.
Six Senses has taken the top spot for the 3rd consecutive year for its ability to deliver, “passion, commitment, ethos and
values, as well as the quality of its management and staff.”
The algorithm has 128 touch points relevant to the luxury hotel sector. Each has its own weighted score value with a total maximum
accumulative score of 4628. They relate to overall brand performance, not the performance of individual properties.
Continuing investment and how it’s used is also a major factor – particularly for new properties and the refurbishment of existing ones.
To make its decision, LTI researchers engage with everyone from the CEO to the management, hosts, and guests. Every year, the process starts
again so the results from previous years have no bearing on the following year and therefore reflect what is happening within the dynamic
hospitality sector. This is all part of the process for creating destination-led reports for the organization’s members, who wish to make
informed travel decisions based on its honest and detailed intelligence.
On awarding Six Senses World’s Best Luxury Hotel Brand, LTI noted, “We continue to be very impressed with Six Senses. It delivers an
authentic blend of wellness, sustainability, warm hospitality and crafted guest experiences.
Also, with Six Senses London and Rome due in 2023 this is an exciting time for the brand and its loyal followers.”
Responding to the award, Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs credited the whole team, “Six Senses hosts take a bow! To win this award three times
in a row reflects everyone’s unwavering commitment over three bumpy years and across our entire group. We take a proactive role in
sustainable well-being, whether that means for our guests, hosts, or the land and communities around us. But for it to work, it has to be
honest and championed with care. Perhaps this authenticity is what guests appreciate the most.”
Six Senses is one our preferred resorts and spa/wellness brands. It has long had a focus on bare-foot luxury with sustainability, so this success comes as no surprise to us. It is well-deserved.
Some properties participate in the IHG One Rewards loyalty program - that alone may be sufficient reason to sign-up as a member.
Pssst! Kimpton Secret Password Valid Through Early September 2022
Now through 5 September 2022, mention the secret password “Stay Cool” at check-in to score perks and other
benefits when staying at Kimpton Hotels (which are part of IHG).
Perks range by property, but can be free parking, a free breakfast, or a free room upgrade, etc.
In addition, Kimpton is now offering travellers an “emotional support beverage” at check-in if your arrival flight was
cancelled or delayed. Very considerate !
Kimpton is one of our favoured brands. Lovely properties, great service and a few quirks like the above and their very pet-friendly
approach
for authentic, brand-consistent touches of individualty.
Each year Travel + Leisure magazine taps into its readership and invites thousands to complete a survey that rates airlines,
spas, hotels, islands and more on many factors. The detailed survey evaluation results in its readers' rankings of the best hospitality has
to offer from around the world.
Participants in the survey collected data from late October 2021 through to the end of February 2022. They rated (with a maximum score
of 100) hotels, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, etc on numerous characteristics, with the option of rating excellent, above
average, average, below average and poor. A minimum number of responses was necessary for a candidate to be eligible for Travel +
Leisure‘s
World’s Best Awards.
This year’s results spanned a whopping 120 categories among hotels, resorts and hospitality brands in cities, countries and regions
globally; to spas, favourite global cities, and best islands, cruise lines, tour operators, safari outfitters, airlines, car rental
companies and National Parks.
Some key observations:
The overall winner was the super-luxury Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, Montalcino. Rosewood also had 2 other properties in the top 100.
Auberge and Shangri-La also both had 3 properties in the top 100.
The groups with the most properties in the top 100 both have Indian roots - Oberoi and Taj both had 6 properties in the
list of top 100 hotels.
While Preferred Hotels owns no hotels of its own, it markets (and offers a loyalty program) for 5 of the top
100 hotels (Pendry Chicago #25, Riggs Washington D.C. #31, Finca Cortesín Hotel Golf & Spa, Málaga #44, Grand Hotel Tremezzo – Lake Como,
#53 and Rancho Santana – Tola, Nicaragua, #56).
Multi-brand Marriott had 4 properties, while Capella, Hilton, Six Senses (IHG), Rocco Forte and Mandarin Oriental each had 2 properties
rated in the top 100.
In terms of the Best 25 Hotel Brands in the World, the Accor stable rated very well, with 3 of its brands rated in the top
25 (Raffles #4, Sofitel Legend #6 and Banyan Tree #11). Global Hotels Alliance (GHA) also had 3 of its brands
rated in the top 25 (Viceroy #10, Anantara #14 and Capella #17).
Of the major, multi-brand chains, IHG (Six Senses #19), Hilton (St Regis #24) and Marriott (Luxury Collection #25) each had 1 brand in
the top 25.
If you'd like to know more about any of the hotels or brands, our associated Travel Agency is a specialist advisor for Langham, Shangri-La. Rosewood, Four Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, Raffles, Preferred
Hotels, Hyatt, IHG, Conrad and St Regis - able to offerfree perks like room upgrades and property credits when you book.
Our congratulations to Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco and all category winners. Far too many to list here entirely,
so we list below a selection of the results:
100 Best Hotels in the World
Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco (99.25),
Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection (99.22),
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi (99.11),
Pickering House Inn, Wolfeboro (98.95) and
One&Only Reethi Rah (98.93).
25 Best Hotel Brands of the World
Oberoi Hotels & Resorts (97.50),
One&Only Resorts (96.20),
Oetker Collection (96.15),
Raffles Hotels & Resorts (95.5) and
Red Carnation Hotel Collection (95.32).
5 Best Resorts - South Pacific
Namale Resort & Spa, Savusavu, Fiji,
Conrad Bora Bora Nui,
St. Regis Bora Bora Resort,
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora,
InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa.
Best Islands of the World
Ischia, Italy (94.61),
Maldives (94.44),
Bali (92.51),
Milos, Greece (92.50) and
Fiji Islands (92.38).
5 Best International Spas
Rancho La Puerta, Tecate, Mexico (95.76),
Sha Wellness Clinic, El Abir, Spain (95.20),
Therme di Saturnia (94.15),
Mountain Trek Fitness Retreat & Health Spa (93.26),
Chable Maroma, Punta Maroma, Mexico (89.90).
25 Best Cities in the World
Oaxaca, Mexico (92.96),
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico (91.77),
Ubud, Indonesia (91.73),
Florence (91.06) and
Istanbul (90.97).
Best City Hotels - Europe
Hôtel Madame Rêve, Paris (98.73),
Rosewood Villa Magna, Madrid (98.67),
Portrait Firenze, Florence (98.25),
Raffles Istanbul (98.25) and
Shangri-La at the Shard, London (97.86).
Best City Hotels - Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific
The Langham, Melbourne (92.53),
Park Hyatt Sydney (90.40),
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney (88.30),
InterContinental Sydney (87.76) and
Shangri-La Sydney (86.40).
Best Islands - Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific
Fiji Islands (92.38),
Moorea, French Polynesia (90.24),
Bora Bora, French Polynesia (87.70),
Great Barrier Reef Islands (86.90) and
Tahiti, French Polynesia (83.33).
Read More…
IHG marks 6,000 hotels milestone with new "club" to reward travellers
IHG is celebrating reaching its 6,000 open hotels milestone by unveiling the ‘6,000 Club’ and announcing partnerships with major
sports and entertainment events. The 6,000 Club features a collection of newly opened hotels around the world.
Hotels in the 6,000 Club will celebrate the occasion in the coming months by surprising select guests with 6,000 IHG One Rewards
points.
Some of the hotels in the 6,000 Club are:
* Six Senses Fort Barwara – a beautiful 14th-century fort in India which was converted to become a sanctuary of
well-being after a significant conservation effort
* Regent Phu Quoc – the first all-suites-and-villas resort under the upper luxury brand in Southeast Asia, located off the southwest
coast of Vietnam alongside a UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve
* Kimpton Margot Sydney – marking the Australian debut for the brand, this art-deco hotel features a rooftop
pool, wine bar, and a 1,725-square-foot “Celebrity Suite”
* voco The Hague – the first for the brand in Netherlands which includes a garden terrace designed by an expert ecologist who created a
welcoming space for nature to thrive
* Atwell Suites Denver Airport - Tower Road – the second hotel to open for IHG’s newest all-suites brand, featuring signature design
and adaptable spaces which support longer stays and allow for easy transition between business and leisure
* Staybridge Suites Al Khobar City - this all-suites hotel is located on the shores of the Arabian Gulf in
the heart of the corporate and shopping hub of vibrant Al Khobar
IHG also announced the launch of new "experience" partnerships, providing new ways to redeem IHG One Rewards points and celebrate
the universal love of music and sports. Highlights include:
* The Governors Ball, Lollapalooza, Reading and Leeds Festivals, Music Midtown, Ohana Festival: While watching live performances,
attendees can enjoy exclusive benefits with IHG One Rewards including backstage access and time in VIP Lounges.
Six Senses Vana opens, providing Health and Healing in the Himalayan Foothills of India
Established Indian destination spa and retreat Vana has been taken over by global hotel group Six Senses.
The property in Dehradun, India, has since been renamed Six Senses Vana. Launched in 2014 it is a 21-acre wellness destination
surrounded by clusters of Sal forest, and set within its own mango and lychee orchards. The retreat draws on ancient healing modalities from
Ayurveda, Tibetan healing traditions and yoga to create bespoke schedules for every retreat attendee.
Wellness facilities include a Tibetan Healing Centre, Ayurveda Centre, Yogasala, Wellness Centre, spa, private watsu pool, gym, thermal and
wet areas, tennis courts, paths for walking and two slate-lined pools – including one on the rooftop with views over the forest and into the
hills beyond.
Along with the wellness and spa facilities, Six Senses Vana will also be a Cinema Paradiso, courts for various ball games, and
experiences that tap into the retreat’s location to encourage movement and reconnection with nature.
Exhibitions, visiting artists, and performances will also continue to be woven into the retreat’s programming.
The destination features 82 rooms facing either the ancient forest or the garden and yoga temple, plus two restaurants and 55 treatment and
consultation rooms.
The new deal will see Six Senses Vana complement the brand’s debut property in India, Six Senses Fort Barwara in
Rajasthan. Sadly, neither of the India locations participate in the IHG One Rewards program. Sigh. Decisions,
decisions...
At the time of writing, Six Senses properties that do participate in IHG One Rewards include:
Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand.
Six Senses Laamu, Maldives.
Six Senses Botanique, Brazil.
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam.
Six Senses Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia.
Six Senses Fiji.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles.
Six Senses Kaplankaya, Turkey.
Six Senses Ibiza, Spain.
Six Senses Shaharut, Israel.
Six Senses Residences Courchevel, France (bookable now for the next season).
Six Senses Kanuhura, Maldives (once it opens later this year).
AboutSix Senses
Six Senses operates 21 hotels and resorts in 17 countries under the names of Six Senses and Evason and has signed a
further 33 properties into the development pipeline. Six Senses maintains a leadership commitment to community, sustainability, emotional hospitality, wellness, and crafted experiences, infused with a touch of quirkiness. Whether an exquisite island resort, mountain retreat, or
urban hotel, the vision remains the same: to reawaken people’s senses so they feel the purpose behind their travels and ultimately reconnect
with themselves, others and the world around them.
In early 2019, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) acquired Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas. However, not all Six Senses properies
participate in the IHG One Rewards program.
Six Senses Spas guides guests on their personal path to well-being in all resorts as well as a handful of standalone
spas. The high-tech and high-touch approach goes beyond ordinary beauty treatments to offer holistic wellness, integrative medicine, and
longevity.
"Secret" password for One Rewards members to receive a surprise for Kimpton stays
Kimpton Hotels have just launched their new Secret Password, “Stay Cool,” valid for stays through September
5, 2022.
IHG One Rewards Members who say these words when checking in are in for a "feel good" surprise that could be
anything from a complimentary breakfast or drinks to free parking (it's up to each individual hotel to decide what their offer is,
which is part of the fun).
With locations all around the world, Kimpton is a popular brand with travelers and IHG loyalists thanks to evening happy hours, its “raid
the minibar” perk for select guests and the brand's right royal treatment of four-legged guests - Kimpton is famous for being pet-friendly.
Better yet, you can book through our Travel Agent service, (an IHG Lifestyle Collection specialist) to receive advice and support, while still earning IHG One Rewards points.
Australia’s First Kimpton Hotel opens for Valentine's Day 2022
I’m pleased to say that one of my favourite hotel chains has opened its first Australian hotel today, on Valentine’s Day.
The Kimpton Margot, Sydney is a gorgeous repurposing of an art-deco ex-public building into a luxury hotel. There is a rooftop pool (for
guests only) and a separate rooftop bar to enjoy those balmy evenings.
No water views but very centrally located on Pitt Street within an easy walk of Town Hall Rail and Light Rail stations, Hyde Park and
Chinatown.
IHG Rewards members can currently book an awards stay for 33,000 points per night – a premium compared to the 27,000 points required at the
(older but still very nice) InterContinental Sydney that is closer to Circular Quay.
A few hours go, IHG announced that it will be making several changes to its loyalty program - IHG Rewards Club.
The first to be shared relates to a new tier and bonus point earning structure:
a new Silver Tier is being introduced. Qualification is 10 nights (only). Tier bonus will be 20%.
Gold Tier will have higher qualification requirements - 20 nights or 40,000 points (currently 7 nights or 7,000 points) The biggest
increase, but tier bonus will increase from 10% to 40%
Platinum Tier will have higher qualification requirements - 40 nights or 60,000 points (currently 30 nights or 30,000
points). Tier bonus will increase from 50% to 60%.
The top Elite Tier will have much higher qualification requirements - 70 nights or 120,000 points (currently 55 nights or 55,000
points)
Renaming of the ‘Spire Elite’ tier to ‘Diamond Elite’ - tier bonus to remain at 100%.
So far, no changes to be made to the Ambassador or Royal Ambassador programs.
All members’ statuses have been extended through February 2023. To requalify, you will need to satisfy the requirements under the new tier structure which goes live from March 2022.
Note that due to Covid-19 there are currently reduced earning requirements in place, which will remain until the changes go live on March 1,
2022 – these are as follows:
Gold Elite qualification by earning 7,000 points or staying seven nights
Platinum Elite qualification by earning 30,000 points or staying 30 nights
Spire Elite (soon to be known as Diamond) qualification by earning 55,000 points or staying 55 nights
One concession is that all stays from January 1, 2022 will count toward your new status when it goes live.
So, consider some of the current IHG promotions to help you get
status before the criteria change in March. A 7 night stay somewhere before 1 March could be enough to qualify for
Gold tier.
We will cover this program in greater detail once further details on the changes to the program are released.
Initial reaction - subject to seeing what additional benefits will be included at the various status tiers, this looks like a less
attractive development. The lowest elite tier now has a minimum number of nights rerquirement only (points/spending won't get you there) and
the bar has been lifted significantly for qualification at higher tiers. Read More…
Six Senses Laamu is Rewarded For Its Conservation Efforts in the Maldives
Six Senses has long been highly regarded as a luxury spa brand with a sustainability focus (before other chains more recently caught up).
Recently, Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI) the marine biology team at Six Senses Laamu, has been named Marine and Coastal
category winner
at the 2021 Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards for a second time (the first being in 2018).
Three independent sustainability experts judged 50 entries from 26 countries, placing MUI top in its category ahead of five other projects.
Philippa Roe, MUI’s Head Marine Biologist said that “For years, the partners within MUI – Six Senses Laamu, the Manta Trust, Blue Marine
Foundation, and the Olive Ridley Project – have been gathering research on Laamu’s marine ecosystems and species, much of which was used as
evidence to support marine protection.”
Shortly after this announcement, the Maldivian President and his administration designated six naturally unique and eco-rich areas in Laamu
Atoll as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs):
the turtle nesting beach, mangrove and seagrass area of L. Gaadhoo (a neighboring uninhabited island of Six Senses Laamu),
the channel between Six Senses Laamu and L. Gaadhoo,
the mangrove of L. Hithadhoo (an inhabited island on the other side of Six Senses Laamu),
as well as two channels, a mangrove, a wetland and an island in other areas of the atoll.
Congratulations (and thanks) to Six Senses and more specifically Six
Senses Laamu
(advertiser).
Six Senses resorts and spas can be booked either direct or through IHG to earn IHG Rewards points.
IHG Rewards Members can also book award stays for 100,000 points per night.
The all-suite and villa resort InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort will be a rebrand of the hotel formerly known as
Fairmont Sanur Beach Bali, and will relaunch soon with a fresh identity and ready to welcome guests.
It boasts 26 villas, each with a private pool, as well as 94 suites and is located on Sanur Beach which is known for its long stretch of sandy beach with shallow waters.
Pre-pandemic, Sanur Beach was growing in popularity with an increasing supply of hotels, restaurants and bars and travellers looking to
enjoy the laid-back nature of Bali while being easily accessible from the both the airport and the city.
Tempted? Perhaps top-up your existing IHG Rewards balance to experience this relaxing luxury.
Read More…
IHG is running a targeted offer for some IHG Rewards members.
If you're part of the targeted campaign, you can register now and stay two nights between 1 January and 31 January
2022,
and you’ll earn 5,000 bonus points.
Worthwhile checking your IHG Rewards account to see if you have received this offer.Read More…
IHG's new Vignette Collection | launch hotel is in Brisbane
Hotel X Brisbane Fortitude Valley in Brisbane has officially opened as the world’s first hotel in IHG's new "collection" brand. Vignette Collection is IHG Hotels & Resorts’ first collection brand and part of the Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio of
brands, along with Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and Hotel Indigo.
Hotel X boasts 146 rooms and suites and three meeting spaces, including an open terrace overlooking Brunswick Street. Foodies will love Iris, the Mediterranean rooftop bar & restaurant, while Bisou Bisou, the phenomenally cool bistro will be dishing up French delicacies.
Hotel X celebrates a strong sense of individuality in this iconic Brisbane neighbourhood through ultra-cool art, Avant Garde lighting
and strong design.
Soon after the opening, signings of two additional hotels to the Vignette Collection were announced - one in each of Austria (pictured is Grand
Hotel Wien, Austria) and
Portugal.
Exciting new world-class luxury hotels with an independent ethos have joined the IHG family.
Start saving those IHG Rewards !
Kimpton's winter 2021 "secret" password | valid through 21 Feb 2022
Kimpton Hotels is a funky boutique hotel brand and is a luxury boutique brand of IHG.
One of its many charms is the Kimpton “secret” password or “social password” that guests can mention at check-in to get some form of perk,
benefit, or bonus.
Kimpton tweeted on its official account earlier today (after a hiatus while few people were travelling) that from today through to 21
February 2022, just say ‘Just Chilling,’ to the front desk team at check-in, and you’ll be rewarded with a feel-good
surprise.
Each hotel offers its own variation of the surprise, which can include items like free parking, a free breakfast, a free upgrade,
complimentary bottle of wine, or mini-bar credit.
Enjoy!
Six Senses Ibiza - anti-ageing program in a luxury spa retreat
Six Senses Ibiza (pictured) is the first sustainable BREEAM certified resort and residential community in the Balearics, occupying a breathtaking position in Xarraca Bay. It has teamed with RoseBar to
offer a residential anti-ageing health & wellness program.
At the time of writing, prices per night were from EUR 595 in early December 2021 and EUR 925 in mid-June
2022, including airport transfers. Alternatively, in both cases, 150,000 IHG Rewards points.
If you buy
IHG Rewards
during a promotion, you could enjoy a wonderful, luxury break to invest in your personal health & wellness - possibly the best
investment you can make!
IHG Rewards extends Elite Status & Points expiration
Once again, IHG Rewards is extending the elite status that members earned in 2019. This time the extension is good until February 2023.
Previously, elite statuses were extended through January 2022.
In addition, IHG is extending some free night certificates and its pause on the expiration of points until 31 December 2022.
Today, as part of the launch of its "Department of Epic" program, IHG Hotels & Resorts announced a contest that will give one
lucky US-based traveller
the chance to win back a year of missed adventures with 365 days worth of epic hotel experiences at various IHG locations around the world,
including InterContinental, Kimpton and Holiday Inn Express.
Pictured above is the InterContinental Bora Bora resort and Thalasso Spa - just one of many possibilities.
Read on for more details and how to enter.
Read More…
There was an article in Le Figaro (later syndicated through Reuters) saying that Accor was looking closely at IHG with a view to takeover
or merger. How would that look ? Where are the overlaps? What might it mean for the respective programs of Accor Live
Limitless and IHG Rewards Club?
Read More…
News & views on * IHG points promotion * Meliá hotels world’s most sustainable * Four Points Gatwick * Fairmont best Luxury Hotel brand *
More Hyatt/SHL options
Read More…
News & views on * IHG points promotion * Meliá hotels world’s most sustainable * Four Points Gatwick * Fairmont best Luxury Hotel brand *
More Hyatt/SHL options
Read More…
