Hotels

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement with Sun Days International for Tourism Investment to develop a US$70 million luxury resort, on the shores of the striking Jordanian Dead Sea.

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Retreat is surely the most beautiful luxury family wilderness lodge in the Cederberg (270 km from Cape Town). A family idyll, loved by children and parents alike, this escape is a safe sanctuary for flora and fauna, and is surrounded by ancient rock art and untamed beauty, open plains, crystal waterfalls and deep ravines. The gardens are a delight and children love the wide-open spaces.

Ravenwood Lodge offers a range of shooting and hunting facilities for visitors. Located on the eastern edge of the Kansas Flint Hills, Ravenwood offers a spectacular mix of sporting opportunities for its visitors in a fun and safe environment. They also have women’s shooting events and family programs.

Hotelopia, the online hotel booking specialist who powers the ‘hotels’ section on the easyJet website is inviting customers to log onto easyJet.com, pick their ideal hotel from the thousands available, and enter a competition to win free stays at their Dream Hotel.

Qualia celebrates its six-month anniversary by welcoming Mischa Barton and her mother Nuala as guests. The well known British-born Hollywood actress and style icon, spent a few days being pampered at qualia after attending the MTV Music Awards.

After a £4 million refurbishment the historic Best Western Mosborough Hall is set to open its doors this week with an appearance from one of the most powerful leaders among British independent television, former Director-General of the BBC, Greg Dyke.

Caring for the environment is simply regarded as common sense at Austria’s ultra-family-friendly Kinderhotels. And the best bit: sustainable family holidays don’t come at a premium price here.

Dive Worldwide is offering 7-nights for the price of 5 at Tobago’s fabulous Toucan Inn, a small, fun resort with a guaranteed lively nightlife, courtesy of the famous on-site Bonkers Bar & Restaurant. 7-night dive specials depart London until the end of July 08.

SHA Wellness Clinic in Spain is to open in July 2008. Devoted to improving and prolonging wellbeing, SHA will be the first destination spa in Europe to offer the macrobiotic system of diet, which was developed by Michio Kushi, the internationally recognised ‘father of modern macrobiotics’.

The Vincent opens in Southport at the end of May, and is expected to redefine the concept of a cool English seaside hotel. With 60 beautifully decorated guest studios, residences and penthouse, the Vincent has a hip, design conscious ambience and blends ultra chic contemporary décor and a fastidious concern for the comfort and relaxation of guests. There’s also a sense of fun, a belief in chilling out in style.

Discovery at Marigot Bay, nestled on St Lucia’s scenic west coast, has been included on the prestigious National Geographic Traveler Stay List for 2008. Only 150 hotels from Canada, Mexico, the United States and the Caribbean were selected for the list which celebrates properties with location-inspired architecture, ambience and amenities, eco-stewardship, and en ethic of giving back to the community.

Studley Castle, set in the heart of Warwickshire, is the latest addition to the Best Western brand, bringing the number of individually owned and managed hotels in the groups collection of member hotels to 283.

The luxury four star Lánchíd 19 design hotel, lanchid19hotel.hu, in Budapest has made it onto the Hot List 2008 that is produced annually by one of the world’s most respected travel magazines, Condé Nast Traveller.

Fed up of junk mail? Tired of having to go through the same questions every time you check into the same hotel - and being sent hundreds of pieces of marketing that isn't relevant to you?

Dnata Travel Services has announced a further expansion to its portfolio of luxury products and services with the creation of Luxury Hotels by Dnata. The new division is dedicated to representing the world’s most luxurious hotels in the Middle East and will offer sales, marketing and PR support to raise their profile in the region.

Hotel Brand Ranking, Worldwide Europe’s leading market research and consulting company MKG Hospitality, Paris, lists Best Western as the strongest hotel brand worldwide, based on number of hotels and rooms.

The Cosmopolitan drinking, Manolo Blahnik wearing women of Sex and the City will be back in our lives on the big screen from May 28th and it’s pretty much guaranteed that women everywhere will be wearing their little black dresses, skyscraper heels and heading out with their girlfriends to celebrate.

Twelve years after his first arrival in Luton in 1995, Stelios, the serial entrepreneur returns to the original home of his 'easy' empire, where he has cut the ribbon to open easyHotel Luton.

Why not relax at The Howard after a morning at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery where you can view 150 remarkable and memorable photographic portraits from that unique barometer of cultural zeitgeist - Vanity Fair Magazine.

Whitbread PLC, the UK’s largest hotel and restaurant group, has announced the development of six new Premier Inn hotels, with 1200 rooms, to be opened in London over the next three years, with an overall investment equivalent to £100 million.

Exclusively Hotels, the accommodation supplier to the travel industry, has launched an impressive new website with improved search facilities that will help agents get the very best accommodation information quickly and easily. Hotels can be filtered by price, city district, star rating and amenities, while destination maps pinpoint all available hotels so that agents can choose a hotel in the ideal location.

Embassy Suites, the national brand of upscale, all-suite hotels, has recognized John Steinbach, Embassy Suites Lake Tahoe – Hotel & Ski Resort as General Manager of the Year. More than 45 awards were presented to hotels and individuals chosen from the brand’s portfolio of nearly 200 hotels throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and South America. The hotel is owned by Roppongi – Tahoe L. P. and managed by Embassy Suites Management LLC.

For a real room with a view, spend the night in Ålesund’s hottest new abode – Room 47 tucked away in an old lighthouse. The newest addition to the refurbished boutique Hotel Brosundet, Room 47 is sure to appeal to travellers looking for somewhere slightly quirky to stay. The lighthouse at the end of a small pier in the harbour will be the perfect place to spend a romantic night listening to the sound of the lapping waves.

This could be the world's first ever 100 per cent ecologically-friendly hotel - and its 'green' credentials will set the benchmark for hoteliers around the world. The solar powered 'Innovation Hotel' - which is the brainchild of the InterContinental Hotels Group - outlines the latest technology in energy and water conservation and recycling.

Manchester United’s securing their place in the UEFA Champion’s League final has led to a 350% rise in searches for hotel rooms in Moscow on the night of the final, according to the world’s leading hotels website, Hotels.com.

Hostelworld.com, the market leader in online hostel reservations, is demanding a radical dictionary change to avoid the ‘down-and-out’ stigma of the word hostel. The firm wants major dictionaries in the UK to scrap current definitions that a hostel is either for homeless and destitute people or just for workers, students, or youths.

Those wanting a short break away without paying for the rising value of the Euro can find fantastic offers right here in the UK. There’s no time wasted checking in at airports or travelling either! The award-winning Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel promises the perfect base for both couples and families. Situated in the Lake District and boasting views over Lake Windermere, this boutique hotel offers plenty to do on its doorstep that will keep all ages entertained.

The last weekend in June marks the very first Festival of Food in Jersey. Overseen by The Grand’s consultant chef Albert Roux – described by many as the godfather of modern restaurant cuisine – and inspired by the ‘good old days’ when Jersey farmers and fisherman would set up in town halls and on St Helier’s seafront to sell and showcase the produce that Jersey is now world renowned for, this 3-day epicurean extravaganza brings together a selection of some of the UK’s finest Michelin starred chefs, in a celebration of the culinary excellence in and around the island.

No-one here at The White Swan Inn will bark at the dog – in fact, far from it, for this is one of the few and increasingly scarce dog-friendly hotels where canine friends are warmly welcomed along with their human owners! And this is where the expression ‘let sleeping dogs lie’ could be fairly said to be true of the owners’ philosophy: guests’ needs and requirements, whatever they are, come first while they are resident at the noted White Swan Inn, situated in the centre of the old market town of Pickering in North Yorkshire – and accompanying dogs come a close second!

Hotels.com, the world’s most visited hotel booking site*, has announced its further expansion into the Eastern European market with the launch of six new local language sites in Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Slovakia and Croatia.

As part of its £120m ‘Nip and Tuck” refurbishment programme, Marriott Hotels is introducing an exciting and extensive range of new dining and restaurant concepts in a major upgrade of its food and beverage offering.

The Columbia Beach Resort, the luxury five star hotel in Pissouri Bay Cyprus has been recognised by the World Travel Awards, with nominations in two categories in 2008; Cyprus’ Leading Resort and Cyprus’ Leading Spa Resort.

Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort – a AAA Four Diamond property – has announced the introduction of its Family Adventure Vacation, packing a month of activities into six days of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Rocky Gap will tailor a set of activities from more than 20 adventures at the resort, within Rocky Gap State Park and throughout the Mountainside of Maryland, which includes activities within a 75-minute drive of the resort.

Make the most of the three-day weekend and escape to a Warwick International Hotel in a choice of glamorous cities across the globe! Warwick International Hotels is proud to offer luxury accommodation in more than 40 locations around the world.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has recently opened Holiday Inn Express Cape Town City Centre, the group’s first limited service hotel in South Africa. Built at a cost of USD16.24 million, the hotel is the first of 25 properties IHG is developing across the country under an exclusive agreement with ISO Leisure, a leading hospitality industry developer in South Africa.

Hotelopia, the online hotel booking specialist has added the brand new luxury boutique five star Hotel Eme Fusion Hotel in Seville to its portfolio of more than 25,000 hotels, offering customers the opportunity to book luxury for less in one of Spain’s favourite city break destinations from just £73 per person, per night. The Hotel Eme Fusion, threw open its doors in March 2008 and is now available to book by logging onto hotelopia.com.

After weeks of tramping across farmland in search of the perfect pig, the liveliest livestock and the cheekiest chicken, the Urban Beach has now officially launched its new spring menu.

This summer, RIU Hotels & Resorts will be launching RiuLand, its new concept of children’s entertainment and activities created by its Entertainment and Activities Department’s team of professionals.

Women travelling to Manchester on business can now enjoy a little extra comfort and peace of mind at the four-star deluxe hotel Macdonald Manchester Hotel, as this month it recognises the growing number of lone female travellers to the city and launches a dedicated floor of 47 bedrooms designed specifically for lady travellers – with a cocktail bonus from Cointreau.

Acclaimed Manchester hotel, the Radisson Edwardian Free Trade Hall on Peter Street voted the city’s Best Large Hotel at the Manchester Tourism Awards 2007 and Large Hotel of the Year in the North West at the Regional Tourism Awards 2007, has scooped the Silver Award at the enjoyENGLAND 2008 awards.

At purplehotels you can take advantage of the May bank holidays without having to break the bank. Unwind, relax, chill out - whichever does it for you and treat yourself to a long weekend at one of 11 purplehotels, where they currently have a special offer just for couples and a great price for families.

Ladies looking for a great weekend escape with the girls should treat themselves to the ‘Weekend Madame’ programme at the five star Royal Olympian Spa & Thalasso resort in the Greek Peloponnese, voted Europe’s leading spa resort by the World Travel Awards.

Upmarket tour operator Planet Holidays is offering three special offers on all bookings for travel from 28 April – 01 June 2008 to the spectacular InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort Hotel, overlooking the famous Aphrodite’s Rock, 20 minutes outside of Paphos. This hotel has attracted its fair share of celebrities including Gillian Taylforth and family.

On 1st May, Emirates Hotels & Resorts, the premier hospitality management division of Dubai-based Emirates Airline will mark its debut in luxury serviced apartments accommodation with the opening of the Green Lakes Serviced Apartments - its second city-based property closely following the opening of The Harbour Hotel & Residence in November last year.

Think all-inclusive hotels and you probably think of either Spain or the Caribbean. Think again. Hungary now has a number of all-inclusive hotel options – including its first ‘spa all-inclusive’ that are perfect for families and couples looking for a good value holiday this year.

The Four Seasons Hotel in Perthshire is launching new adrenalin pumping packages for those with a wild streak and love of adventure. Guests can choose from two Walk on the Wildside packages.

The Edinburgh Residence has launched a new family-friendly package offering parents with young children a stress-free break in the city. The Edinburgh Residence is a five-star, Georgian-style hotel, comprising 29 luxury town house suites - perfect for families of three or four.

Jurys Inns Group, the Dublin based leading premium budget hotel group, today announced that its flagship hotel in Liverpool has opened for business. Jurys Inns Liverpool is the 17th Inn within the UK and brings the total number of Jurys Inns to 23 in the group.

Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts has opened it’s third hotel in the People’s Republic of China: the Swissôtel Grand, Shanghai. Following in the wake of the two existing hotels in Beijing and Kunshan, the new 5-star deluxe hotel will extend the portfolio of the international hotel chain with Swiss heritage in China. In only a few weeks a further hotel is set to open in the city of Foshan (Guangdong).

iBAHN, the leading provider of digital converged services for hoteliers, today announces that it has completed the installation of Secure High Speed Internet Access (HSIA) in the luxurious Regent Grand Hotel Bordeaux, a member of the Rezidor Hotel Group.

The Londa, the new upscale contemporary boutique hotel in Cyprus on the shores of the Mediterranean has again been recognised by the World Travel Awards, with nominations in three categories in 2008; Cyprus’ Leading Hotel, Cyprus’ Leading Spa Resort and for the first time Mediterranean Leading Boutique Hotel.

A landmark of Prague and the Czech Republic, the five-star Art Deco Radisson SAS Alcron Hotel is currently finalizing extensive room renovations that will be completed by the end of April 2008. The new room designs incorporate the most modern requirements, yet maintain the signature Art Deco style that makes the Alcron unique among Prague hotels.

Visit Malta and experience the Mediterranean’s first Wellness Rejuvenation Rooms at the Fortina Spa Resort. Be pampered in the Fortina Spa, dine in the Fortina's award winning restaurants and have the chance to explore Valletta and Medina.

Best Western Hotels are pleased to announce that The Wiltshire Hotel in Wootton Bassett, Swindon has become the latest addition to the largest group of independently owned and managed hotels portfolio increasing the number to 283.

Celebrate Father’s day in style at the Ickworth Hotel and Apartments in Suffolk, arguably the jewel in the crown of the Luxury Family Hotel’s collection. Whether you book one of the elegant, individually styled bedrooms or a spacious apartment you will experience in full the fantastic facilities the hotel has to offer.

Forte Village Resort in Sardinia and Chelsea Football Club are delighted to announce that from May to September 2008 coaches from the English Premier League side will be taking up residence at Forte Village's Football Academy. The resort comprises seven luxury properties, all distinguished members of Great Hotels of the World (ghotw.com), representing some of the world’s finest independent hotels.

The Millennium Knightsbridge Hotel has now completed the re-design of their Tangerine Café Bar & Restaurant. Experience the ambiance of this stylish Restaurant & Bar while you enjoy pre – dinner drinks with friends or before heading out on the town.

Guests at Park Plaza Nottingham are honing their golf skills in the middle of town with CyberGolf, Nottingham’s only indoor golf centre. Using the latest, cutting-edge technology, CyberGolf allows visitors to play golf with real clubs and real balls on over 50 of the world’s greatest courses. With four full swing golf simulators and large putting green, CyberGolf is a favourite with guests at Park Plaza Nottingham.

Following the huge success of Little Shompole, the latest addition to The Art of Ventures Collection in Kenya is a home away from home, Shompole House which opens next month. Sleeping up to four people Shompole House offers you unique safari style, stunning views, a relaxed atmosphere, private dining, spa treatments and the opportunity to take part in the many game viewing activities.

Beachcomber Tours has announced savings of up to 35 per cent off all new holiday bookings at the popular beachfront resort of Trou aux Biches on the north west coast of Mauritius.

Those searching for a holiday in the UK that the whole family can enjoy need look no further than the award-winning Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel in Lake Windermere. Promising a perfect base for a family break, this boutique hotel in the Lake District is situated within miles of open-countryside and offers plenty to do on its doorstep that will keep all ages entertained.

With white sand beaches, miles of turquoise blue sea and plenty of sunshine, the Maldives can easily be described as the ultimate destination to chill out.

The time has come: the first Mövenpick Hotel in Greece is due to open in the next few days. Following major renovation and extension over the last two years, the upscale Mövenpick Resort & Thalasso Crete is now ready to welcome its first guests and to offer them an exquisite combination of typical Greek hospitality and the traditional Swiss passion for efficiency, reliability, punctuality and precision.

Leading hotel and resort management company Mirvac Hotels & Resorts has entered into a hotel management agreement with Melview Developments for the management of a Quay West Resort in Melview’s Queenstown Kawarau Falls Station development, in the South Island of New Zealand.

Hilton Hotels Corporation has announced that the Rome Cavalieri Hilton, the preferred hotel for global travelers to the Eternal City and the hub for Rome’s society set, will become the first European property to join The Waldorf=Astoria Collection.

To celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Ian Fleming’s birth and the launch of the Imperial War Museum London’s new exhibition, “For Your Eyes Only: Ian Fleming and James Bond”, Rocco Forte’s Brown’s Hotel is offering a special package, The Ian Fleming Centenary stay.

The Exsus team have announced the opening of the first luxury Baobab Tree Villa at Mozambique’s Londo Lodge. The suite features a large living room with teak deck, a stunning roof-top bedroom with private veranda overlooking the Indian Ocean, beautiful bathroom, outdoor shower and private plunge pool. Tree houses don’t get more luxurious than this.

A coven of more than 90 witches attended a lunch at The Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel, raising more than £3,000 for charity. All proceeds from the Chester event were given to Claire House Children’s Hospice, which won a competition to hold a free charity event at the St John Street based Hotel.

Butlins today unveils plans to build a second hotel at its popular Bognor Regis holiday resort. With an investment of approximately £20million, the new 200-room hotel will provide guests with a wide choice of contemporary accommodation plus a state of the art hotel spa.

The Bedruthan Steps Hotel in North Cornwall is offering savings of 25% on stays of two or more midweek nights in a sea-view room between now and 23rd May 2008. This family owned four star hotel has won a host of awards over the past two years for its commitment to sustainability.

YHA Australia has trawled its network of more than 4000 hostels across the world to find the top ten unique and unusual accommodation options for the dollar-conscious traveller. From tree houses in Norway to castles in Scotland, YHA is proving that backpackers’ hostels are half the fun of travel.

Make the most of the two long weekends in May with a luxury break at one of the 11 Rocco Forte hotels. Each one is centrally located in a key European city and offers an ideal base from which to explore local events and festivals - here are just a few to choose from.

Hotelopia, the online hotel booking specialist has added a seductive selection of five star luxury hotels to its website hotelopia.com, allowing those planning a Shirley Valentine escape, the opportunity to start a romance in the beautiful Greek island of Mykonos.

The Westbury Hotel, off Dublin’s Grafton St. will this week unveil the latest stage of a comprehensive refurbishment programme that will see the hotel reclaim its pre-eminent position among Dublin’s elite five star hotels.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) today announces it has signed an agreement with Serbian-based Delta Real Estate to open the first Crowne Plaza in the Serbian capital of Belgrade.

The Waldorf Astoria Collection and DuVal Development have announced the signing of the Dakota Mountain Lodge, a Waldorf Astoria Collection hotel and and Hilton’s first ski management property.

For the ultimate country spa retreat dedicated to pampering parents and precious family time, head to the Elms hotel in Worcestershire, a member of The Luxury Family Hotel collection for the opening of its new Aquae Sulis Spa from 16 May 2008. Dedicated to parents expecting or with young families, the Elm’s Aquae Sulis Spa offers a contemporary spa experience in elegant surroundings. A haven without pretentions where the complexities of life can be left behind.

11 Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express hotels across Europe, Middle East and Africa - plus 19 in the United States and six across Asia Pacific - have been chosen to road-test the changes to the world's biggest hotel brand, which includes new bedding, new shower experience and, for the first time, a signature scent and sound package.

Has leading a London hotel got the measure of the mayoral race? Ken Livingstone is the clear front runner in London’s mayoral race - but only when it comes to cocktails. That’s according to the Park Plaza County Hall’s Spectrum Bar. The hotel has created a range of potent drinks to mark the forthcoming elections.

There's a $40k prize up-for-grabs for people who vote for their favourite hotel, and the most-popular 300 hotels will be published in an Insight Guides travel guide. WAYN are a global partner for the awards which are taking place in three main territories, UK+IE, Oceania and Asia.

Park Hyatt Tokyo, committed to offering discriminating travellers the highest level of individual attention, will unveil a collection of facial and body treatments tailored for men and created exclusively by Australian company Aesop, whose sublime products have cared for discerning clients globally since 1987.

A further deluxe hotel has been added to the portfolio of Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts in Germany - Swissôtel Dresden. The management contract between the Zurich-based hotel chain and Baywobau Dresden GmbH, a property developer with numerous ongoing projects in Dresden, has just been signed. The grand opening of the 5-star Swissôtel Dresden, planned for spring 2010, will enhance the portfolio of the international hotel chain with Swiss heritage.

Southern Ocean Lodge, the much anticipated and eagerly awaited world class wilderness lodge on Kangaroo Island, is now open. Kangaroo Island, widely regarded as Australia’s Galapagos, offers outstanding natural beauty, an abundance of wildlife and a protected natural environment boasting 21 national parks which cover a third of the island.

Dubai is best known for 7 star luxury hotels and for most Brits, seems like an extravagant destination a world away. Not any longer! Britain’s biggest and fastest growing hotel brand, Premier Inn, has announced the opening of its first hotel in the region.

The luxurious 5 Star Tanjong Jara Resort on Malaysia’s East Coast, has just scooped the Conde Naste 2008 Award for ‘Best Hotel Spa in Asia Pacific and the Indian Subcontinent’ and to celebrate tailor-made specialist, Trips Worldwide is offering 10-nights for the price of 9 for departures from London throughout June 2008.

Legacy Hotels & Resorts International has some exciting new developments in Africa including new properties Madagascar, South Africa and Nigeria. Legacy recently became the second hospitality group to commit to the Heritage Environmental Rating Programme in Africa, whereby all its properties will undergo continuous assessment and receive independent accreditation for being environmentally responsible.

The 10th anniversary party for the Swissôtel Métropole Geneva attracted a great many celebrities and generated an impressive volume of donations: from the famous football player Christian Karambeu and his wife model Adriana through the French actress Marlene Jobert, the comedian Michel Leeb and his daughter, the jazz singer Fanny Leeb, to Miss Swiss Romande Ivana Dugalic along with 150 invited guests – all enjoyed a lively celebration of the very highest standard.

Scottish country house hotel Cringletie House has joined forces with Stobo Castle Health Spa to offer visitors to Scotland the ultimate luxurious break just outside Edinburgh. The Spring Pamper Package is guaranteed to leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and ready for the summer.

Jurys Inns, the Dublin based hotel group, will be launching their newest UK hotel in April in Liverpool – the 2008 European Capital of Culture. The hotel, which will open for business on the Friday 18 April, will follow the successful Jurys Inns formula of offering guests superior budget accommodation with a stylish bar and restaurant in the heart of the city.

One of Edinburgh’s most elegant hotels is to benefit from a £7.5m makeover, cementing its position as the city’s top luxury four-star hotel. The Roxburghe Hotel, in the city’s stylish Charlotte Square, is undergoing extensive refurbishment over the next 18 months, creating luxurious bedrooms and suites, plus a £1.7m redevelopment of the public areas to offer a new contemporary restaurant and bar areas.

Hilton Garden Inn, one of the fastest growing brands within the Hilton Family of hotels, with locations throughout North America and Europe, has been named the top midprice hotel brand in the 2008 Business Travel News’ U.S. Hotel Chain Survey.

Three Choirs’ new lodge rooms in the heart of the vineyard combine luxurious accommodation with a haven of peace and tranquillity in leafy Gloucestershire. If you yearn for a relaxing and original way to while away a weekend, look no further than these beautifully designed wooden lodges opening in June. Situated just 500 metres from the main vineyard buildings, the lodges are nestled in between the breathtaking vines and overlook the string of ponds in the valley below the restaurant.

When you imagine the Wyndham Grand think of a contemporary yet restful space where you are free to while away the hours sipping on cocktails whilst watching the yachts bob on the harbour or observing the chic stars that frequent the hotel.

The Milestone Hotel adheres strongly to its motto: No request is too large...no detail too small. And, added to their long list of luxurious accommodations and beautiful location overlooking Kensington Palace, this award-winning hotel offers a substantial roster of wonderful amenities, impeccable service, and even a package designed to make its four-legged guests yearn to return.

On 27th March, 2008, The Old Government House Hotel & Spa located in St. Peter Port, Guernsey, Channel Islands, was acquired by Red Carnation Hotels for an undisclosed amount.

Guests staying at the Edwardian homestead of Portee (portee.com.au), South Australia, the last week of June (25th – 30th) will experience the added thrill of watching a truly authentic Australian activity, and on a world class level, as the Australian Sheep Shearing team hones its skills prior to the world championships to be held in Norway in October 2008.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), one of the world's largest hotel groups by number of rooms, today announced the signing of its first Holiday Inn Express hotel in Taiwan. The hotel will be located in Taichung, Taiwan's third largest city, and will be the city's first global hotel brand.

The editors of National Geographic Traveler magazine have named Wentworth By the Sea Hotel & Spa in the magazine’s first-ever, annual "Stay List." The list, which debuts in the April 2008 issue of the magazine, includes 150 properties in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Wentworth By the Sea is the sole New Hampshire hotel on the list.

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away, a lively trip with friends or a family break, stay at The Howard and spend a day taking in Scotland’s breathtaking countryside in the car that revolutionised sports car design – The Jaguar E-type Roadster.

Thailand’s highly popular King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament returns to the hills in 2008. Event organiser Anantara Resorts announced that the 2008 tournament will take place from March 31 to April 6 in the northernmost region of the country known as the Golden Triangle. This year’s event will see 12 teams go trunk to trunk to win the coveted King's Cup trophy.

Travellers to Australia looking for environmentally sensitive accommodation devoid of mobile phone reception, yet rich in old fashioned Outback hospitality, should look no further than 7,453 acre Rawnsley Park Station (rawnsleypark.com.au) located in the heart of the Flinders Ranges only 400 kilometres from Adelaide.

Rotana has announced the near completion of the Al Ain Rotana Hotel expansion project, which will be finished in April 2008. Al Ain is situated close to the Abu Dhabi/Oman border and is the fourth largest city in the United Arab Emirates.

Hotelopia, the online hotel booking specialist, has landed yet another major airline partnership with Gulf Air, the airline with the biggest network in the Middle East, to provide accommodation services on Gulfair.com.

Following a number of successful design, quality and service assessments at the four star Best Western Mount Pleasant Hotel in Doncaster, Best Western is pleased to announce its addition to the groups ‘Premier’ portfolio. With only four hotels achieving this status outside of London the hotel now proudly holds the title as Yorkshire’s only ‘Premier’ hotel.

New figures just released have confirmed that El Gouna, the Red Sea’s premier leisure destination, remains a popular choice with travelling Brits. The statistics demonstrate that the UK is now resort’s fourth largest source market, with nearly 1 in 10 arrivals, guest nights and room nights all being attributable to UK visitors.

Haven Holidays are offering a full week at a choice of UK holiday parks for only £199 – for a family of four people. Comfortable holiday home accommodation and a wide range of facilities are included in the price - if you want to keep the kids happy during the school holiday break it’s almost cheaper than staying at home!

Longueville Manor is proud to announce the launch of its New Leaf Campaign, the umbrella under which its strong commitment to environmental responsibility will live and take shape.

The soon-to-be-launched luxury Iru Fushi Beach & Spa Resort, part of Sun Hotels & Resorts, located in the Maldives, has announced the appointment of German national Ingo Möller as executive chef.

Hotelopia, online hotel booking specialist recommends two contrasting hotels from its Barcelona portfolio giving those who book a break to the city the option for either an ultra modern or super historic stay in one of Spain’s favourite city break destinations.

Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts has launched its brand new website under Swissotel.com. The new website complements the style of the international hotel chain superbly. Its elegant layout reflects the company’s corporate identity in a clear, modern and contemporary design.

Luxury and Bootcamp are not two words that are usually used together – but this is exactly what is one offer at the Blue Palace Resort in Crete. This award winning hotel has joined forces with Joe Fournier, former England basketball captain and now personal trainer to the stars, to offer a combination of arduous workouts and relaxing spa treatments in its Luxury Shape Up Bootcamp.

Millennium and Copthorne Hotels are serious about chocolate this Easter and are offering guests who stay at one of their 19 hotels during the Easter period a 50g Lindt bunny.

Following a €7 million hotel renovation, it is only fitting that the Spa at the Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona has also been given a rejuvenating facelift for 2008. With the introduction of new products and treatments from luxurious brand Éminence Organic Skin Care, and a highly qualified homeopathic doctor as Spa Manager and Owner, Kempinski Estepona’s new luxury organic Med-Spa is a first for Spain.

Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort – a AAA Four Diamond property in Western Maryland – today introduces the Women's Wellness Weekend, scheduled for May 2 through 4. Designed to enhance the mind, body and spirit, planned activities include yoga, meditation, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, rappelling, healthy dining and much more.

Millennium and Copthorne Hotels are opening five new hotels in China during 2008, in Beijing, Chengdu, Qingdao, Xiamen and Wuxi. The 352-room Millennium Harbourview Hotel Xiamen is in a strategic location juxtaposing a wonderful sea view with the convenience of the city.

El Gouna, the Red Sea’s premier leisure destination, has announced it is set to host a kite surfing jamboree, 18-27th April this year. Set to be one of the biggest events in the Red Sea area for kite-boarders and their fans, there are a variety of activities scheduled during the week-long event that even non-fans can enjoy getting involved in.

IHG, one of the world's largest hotel groups by number of rooms, and Lane Hospitality, a hotel real estate and management company, have announced the official opening of the first Crowne Plaza prototype, the 198-room Crowne Plaza Milwaukee-Wauwatosa.

Everyday is a romantic day at The Chesterfield Palm Beach. This jewel of a hotel is delighted to offer the Sweethearts' package. Treat yourself and your loved one to the breathtaking and intimate surroundings of Palm Beach.

The annual Andrew Harper Hideaway Grand Award list singles out properties that have demonstrated a strong individual personality coupled with devotion to personal service. This is the exact ethos of Summer Lodge Country House Hotel, Restaurant and Spa, an idyllic hotel situated in the picture postcard village of Evershot, deep in Thomas Hardy Country in Dorset.

The Montague on The Gardens’ new two-bedroom Suite epitomizes design chic. Enter through its marble corridor where the walls are adorned with a faux suede fabric and a series of original prints strategically placed to create the ‘wow’ factor. On the floor is crème marfil and brown maron marble tiles and under-floor heating. Ceiling spots set the scene for that perfect setting.

The Mövenpick Hotel Hamburg was awarded one of the world’s most important real estate awards in Cannes on 13 March 2008. This hotel, which opened in June 2007 and is housed in a historic water tower built under the direction of Patrizia Projektentwicklung GmbH, received the MIPIM Award in the Hotels and Tourism Resorts category.

The four star Low Wood Hotel on the shores of Lake Windermere is launching a series of new outdoor activities for children. The Low Wood Watersports Centre has just been awarded a license from the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) which means its instructors can teach children a number of exciting outdoor activities, without a parent or guardian present.

Parents-to-be – it’s your time and we at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa know just how to make it your best ever. The hotel has a special package that caters to your every whim. Enjoy pampering Twelve Apostles style – there really is nothing like it.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), one of the world's largest hotel groups by number of rooms, has won a number of industry awards in China, the fastest growing region for the company in Asia Pacific. At the 2007 China Hotel Starlight Awards, IHG was named Best International Hotel Company. Its Priority Club Rewards, which has 37 million members worldwide and 1 million members across China, was named Best Loyalty Programme in China.

Opening in June 2008, the £180 million Sofitel London Heathrow is set to become one of the largest luxury airport hotels, meeting and events venues in Europe. Directly connected to Terminal 5 via a link bridge, the 605-bedroom hotel will be situated at the heart of one of the most strategically important locations in the UK.

A Hilton budget hotel that is to be built at the foot of Constitution Hill in Birmingham has been hailed by civic leaders as another vital cog in the city’s regeneration story.

According to HolidayCheck, the Mövenpick Hotel Berlin is one of the 99 most popular hotels in the world, and is in the Top 3 within Germany. The travel industry's prestigious public award was presented on 5 March 2008 on the occasion of the International Tourism Trade Fair (ITB) in Berlin.

Sun Valley Resort today announces that its Trail Creek Course has been voted No. 4 on Golfweek’s state-by-state list of “America’s Best Courses You Can Play.”

Tamarack Resort today announces its award-winning Osprey Meadows Golf Course has been named No. 1 in Golfweek’s annual state-by-state ranking of public access courses.

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts is taking its first step into central London after forming a strategic partnership with the prestigious 5 star Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington, which is currently undergoing a multi-million redevelopment programme of its upper three floors.

Boutique apartment company, The Chambers, has teamed up with Leeds College of Music to support a drive to discover the city’s next chart-topping music sensation – following in the footsteps of Corinne Bailey Rae, The Kaiser Chiefs and The Pigeon Detectives.

According to research by Holiday Inn, the average mum and dad manage to squeeze in just 15 minutes a day enjoying each other's company amid their hectic family life - and that's nearly always in bed.

Rotana hotel company is announcing an exciting new brand structure with two unique additional offerings within its portfolio; alcohol-free and all-suites. The rebranding of the company will now include four brands; Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Centro Hotels by Rotana, Arjaan by Rotana and Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts by Rotana.

With 25 hotels across the UK and France, the von Essen group has an array of beautiful stunning destinations. From 17th century Manor houses to a Tudor Castle, there’s a luxury hotel to suit everyone’s desire of a Spring-time getaway.

Lincoln business, The Old Bakery Restaurant with Rooms is celebrating after reaching the finals of a national award where they will be competing head to head with Jamie Oliver's restaurant Fifteen.

Basking stylishly within the grounds of a beautiful old farm, the ultra contemporary Jiva Hill Park Hotel, near Crozet, France enjoys 35 hectares of its own natural parkland with stunning vistas of both the Jura Mountains and Mont Blanc range. The hotel has taken full advantage of this space, equipping itself with a wide variety of facilities to suit all interests – especially the sporty types.

While Delia Smith returns to TV with a new series of culinary programmes, The Greenbrier resort in West Virginia is set to host a series of unique gourmet events dedicated to impassioned foodies from wine tastings, culinary demonstrations to hands-on classes/seminars. These culinary weekends commence in March and run through November 2008.

Online travel and leisure retailer lastminute.com has seen a staggering 40% increase in hotel bookings since the beginning of this year as consumers are more confident booking hotel rooms independently.

Extending Emirates Hotels & Resorts’ well-established signature spa operations, The Harbour Hotel & Residence in Dubai, the hospitality division’s first city-based hotel, opened the doors to its very own ‘Timeless Spa’.

The noted White Swan Inn, nestling in the centre of the bustling market town of Pickering has shaken off the mantle of winter and is looking forward to the coming spring and summer months with a great programme of outdoor activities.

Experience the ultimate girls’ weekend break with a visit to The Vitality Show and a stay at Park Plaza Victoria. The UK’s largest health and beauty show, The Vitality Show runs from 27 March through 30 March 2008 at Olympia. The show hosts over 400 health, beauty and wellbeing companies offering advice, services and products to combat a hectic lifestyle.

Taba Heights, Egypt’s most naturally luxurious resort, has confirmed its ever-increasing popularity with UK guests. New figures just released indicate that Taba Heights is a firm favourite with travelling Brits, with around one in three room nights (38%) being filled by guests from the UK.

Luxury west coast hotel Ardanaiseig has been awarded the title of Intimate Wedding Hotel of the Year at the Scottish Hotel of the Year Awards 2008. This is the second consecutive year the independent hotel has been recognised for its uniquely romantic location and first class service.

Luxury west coast hotel Ardanaiseig has been awarded the prestigious Gold Medal for Management in the Scottish Hotel of the Year Awards 2008. Head Chef Gary Goldie also received a special commendation in the category of National Hotel Chef of the Year.

Staff at Macdonald Pittodrie House Hotel near Aberdeen are celebrating after scooping a new star from the AA launching it into the luxury four star category. The historic 27-bedroom hotel is mid-way through an intensive 12 month programme of investment - not just in the building and its fabric and fittings but also in its employees.

The Square Restaurant’s Gourmet Wine Dinners already boast a popular reputation. Yet, this April, the restaurant – located at the Vineyard Hotel and Spa in Cape Town - is set to launch their 2008 series in a most spectacular fashion with invited honoured guest, world-famous French Sommelier Georges Pertuiset.

Celebrating a century of inspiration to the British, the Ideal Home Show brings innovative home and garden ideas to London from 14 March through 6 April 2008. Take the ideal weekend further with a stay at Plaza on the River Club and Residence.

In January 2008 The Royal Crescent Hotel joined the prestigious Relais & Chateaux Association - an exclusive collection of 470 of the finest hotels and gourmet restaurants in 55 countries, established in France in 1954. The Association’s mission is to select outstanding properties with a truly unique character that have to meet very strict criteria.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), one of the world’s largest hotel groups by number of rooms, announces the addition of Jet Airways as Priority Club Rewards’ newest airline partner.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), the biggest hotel operator in the booming Russian international-branded hotel sector, continues its Russian expansion with the announcement of the signing of a further Moscow property, its 7th Holiday Inn in the city.

A getaway to beautiful Barbados is now even more tempting, thanks to the recent opening of the Chakra Spa at the Accra Beach Hotel & Resort on the island’s south coast.

Imagine galloping on horseback along the beach in short sleeves, the sun on your face and ocean spray glittering around you – this is a riding adventure to Tarifa, Andalucia, with The Riding Company. The company’s unique equestrian hotel is located right on the beach and also has its own wave school, where guests can have a go at surfing, kite surfing and wind-surfing.

An award-winning hotel and spa complex in Austria has launched horse riding, spa and yoga breaks, for the ultimate in relaxation and adventure. The Reiter’s Burgenland Resort is a relaxing haven owned by Karl Reiter, voted the best Spa hotelier of the year 2007 by the international Relaxguide for spa hotels.

Just like the recently completed 10-million euro refurbishment programme at the Hyatt Regency La Manga, the resort’s website - Lamangaclub.com - has undergone a revamp to create a fresh new look.

Once again food and wine connoisseurs will have the opportunity to unite socially during the Kayumanis Food Festival hosted on 2nd and 3rd May 2008 at the gangsa. The Balinese Chefs from each Kayumanis property will join forces to take diners on a journey that excites the senses and transcends culinary boundaries.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announced the expansion of its resort portfolio in Bali, Indonesia’s top leisure destination, with the signing of the InterContinental Bali Sanur Beach Resort and a Holiday Inn Resort on Tuban.

The Cove, Cornwall’s all-suite boutique hotel, will this month unveil two new family suites aimed at style-savvy parents wishing to combine an indulgent break for themselves with quality family time.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is pushing ahead with its expansion strategy in Egypt. At the end of 2007 two new luxury cruisers set sail on their maiden voyage on the Nile and Lake Nasser, and just recently two projects were announced in Sharm El Sheikh.

A new holiday centre for disabled guests and their carers has opened in Cyprus. Purpose-built accommodation and activities, specially designed to suit the requirements of the less mobile holidaymakers is now available in Polis. The user-friendly C & A Tourist apartments are fully accessible to wheelchair users with roll-in showers, a swimming pool hoist and raised sun beds.

Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort (Maryland) – home to the state’s only Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course – has introduced the 2008 Rocky Gap Youth Golf Academy instructional program.

A leading family run hotel, located in the Scottish Borders, has won the Informal Dining Award at the Scottish Hotel of the Year Awards 2008. This is the third consecutive year Burts Hotel has received recognition for its outstanding cuisine.

The home of grilled food and the UK’s biggest and fastest growing hotel brand have arrived in Birmingham as a brand new Beefeater restaurant and Premier Inn hotel opened its doors.

It is a well known fact that Hyatt is expanding across the globe with a number of remarkable luxury hotels opening year upon year. In celebration of this fact we have picked some current short-haul Hyatt hotels that really showcase what the Hyatt brands already have to offer, setting a high standard for what is to come.

Sun Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives offers a wide variety of watersports activities in its two luxury resorts, Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort in South Male Atoll and Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort in South Nilandhe Atoll.

The luxurious, up-market Beech House B & B situated opposite the renowned Michelin-starred Olive Branch pub, the current ‘Michelin Pub of the Year 2008’, in the pretty village of Clipsham, Rutland, is offering special mid-week deals. Through spring.

Hilton Hotels Corporation has announced that it is has signed a franchise agreement with DIMATOUR to open the new Hilton Garden Inn Bologna/San Lazzaro in Italy.

The two week holiday is dying out, according to a new survey revealed today by Holiday Inn. Families across Britain are struggling to find the time or money to go away with their loved ones, and a whopping 52 per cent of families definitely won’t be going on a two week summer holiday this year, citing cost as the main problem.

Research released today by Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts has proved that absence really does make the heart grow fonder. Crowne Plaza asked more than 700 business travellers how travel away from home affects their relationships. According to the survey, a whopping 76% tell their partner they love them more often when away on business.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has taken yet another important step in its Middle East expansion strategy. A management agreement for a modern 5-star hotel in the heart of the Syrian capital, Damascus has just been signed with the owning company Toumeh International Group.

Luxury serviced apartment company, The Chambers, is celebrating having scooped a prestigious award at the Resi Prop Awards – sponsored by Variety Club Yorkshire - in recognition of the supreme craftsmanship afforded to its newest development – Park Place.

The international hotel chain Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts has opened a new deluxe hotel in the Estonian capital today - the Swissôtel Tallinn, Estonia. The building is now the tallest in the Estonian capital, and offers spectacular views of the historic Old Town as well as across the Baltic Sea.

Exclusive resort weddings are usually considered to be the domain of celebrities. But now all brides can have a truly memorable wedding with the exclusive use of one of the Caribbean’s most romantic boutique resorts. Nisbet Plantation Beach Club in Nevis has launched a Share the Love package which guarantees that the resort will be exclusively reserved for the use of the wedding party if they book 31 or more rooms for a minimum of five nights.

Tucked within 225 square kilometres of pristine desert landscape of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai’s very own Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, is set to recreate the adventure, romance, and excitement of the award-winning classic ‘Around the World in 80 days’.

For the ultimate treat this Mother’s Day, whisk your mum away to one of the finest luxury country house hotels. Situated in the Peak District, Moorside Grange’s facilities include a relaxation suite, Russian room, steam room and beauty salon so mum can be well and truly pampered.

Irresistible to those who know it, the glorious 1800 acre estate of Ickworth is building up to its spring splendour. The daffodils are blooming and the sheep are lambing not far from its stunning Dower House apartments.

Don’t you just long to stretch your vacation. Wouldn’t a special memento be wonderful. Well – Red Carnation – as always – is here to help. Over the past 11 years they have helped guests purchase the fantastic beds they slept on.

Consisting of three luxury suites linked by pathways, Little Garonga is the brand new Safari Camp that opened in the Makalali Game Reserve in December 2007.

In summer 2004 Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts announced the takeover of a resort on the Elephantine Island near Aswan. The extensive renovation and extension work is just about to be completed. The 5-star hotel, which now goes by the name of Mövenpick Resort Aswan, delights with its contemporary design punctuated with Nubian style elements.

Celebrate Greek Orthodox Easter in Cyprus in Pissouri Bay and stay at the five star Columbia Beach Resort – a luxury hideaway situated on a 2 km Blue Flag beach surrounded by rugged cliffs and acres of vineyards in the valley behind.

Sample a week of coastal chic at The Cove in Cornwall this April and get ‘Scilly’ with two free day trip flights to the idyllic Scilly Isles.

The Star School project was one of the first programmes implemented by Thanda’s JAC-Initiative to promote an AIDS-free lifestyle. Star School promotes the mantra "AIDS-free, that's me" and has been integrated into the curricula of high schools in KwaZulu-Natal.

Solís Cambrian Hotel & Spa in Adelboden, Switzerland celebrated its grand opening yesterday (20th February), two months after the property was re-launched on 20th December 2007, following a complete refurbishment that has seen the property emerge as an easy-going but luxurious hotel, with a contemporary design focus.

Dates have already been confirmed for 2008’s Sani Gourmet Food Festival, the annual culinary event held at the Sani Resort, Halkidiki, Greece. The festival is to be held from 17th – 24th May 2008 and, if last year was anything to go by, the event looks set to be an un-missable occasion for food and wine-lovers everywhere.

You might know that the Emirates Palace was and still is the most expensive hotel ever built; however, here are a few more interesting facts about Abu Dhabi’s iconic landmark.

In celebration of romance throughout the year, Hilton Garden Inn – the award-winning mid-priced hotel brand – has created an innovative online resource to help romantics everywhere prepare and plan a love sojourn.

The picturesque resort, Amathus Paphos Beach Hotel in Cyprus, is to re-open its doors in March 2008, featuring a sophisticated new European restaurant, improved suites and great new packages and offers.

Bruges’ very first five-star deluxe hotel, the Kempinski Hotel Dukes’ Palace, is set to open its historic doors for the first time in March 2008. “We are very much looking forward to welcoming guests in the New Year and are extremely proud of what promises to be an exciting addition to the charming city of Bruges.” said Philippe DeMeyer, General Manager.

With more hotels than ever in key cities like Shanghai and Beijing, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts rings in the Chinese “Year of the Rat” with a collection of properties ready to host guests for the upcoming 2008 Summer Olympic Games.

Enjoy the beauties of a new 5 star deluxe hotel-resort located in its own 6-acre grounds and only 15 minutes by car from the heart of Florence.

Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona in Spain opened on February 1, 2008 following a 7 million Euro refurbishment. Located just five minutes outside the charming village of Estepona, this luxury five star property sits within perfectly manicured gardens, on a sandy beach overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Thinking of a treat for Mothers day? Look no further, Flanders has the perfect answer. What better place than this small corner of Europe to stop and indulge mother for a special weekend treat. Beautiful hotels, mouth watering cuisine and excellent value for money make visitors want to come back again and again.

For a leap year to remember take a stroll around the beautiful landscape at Northumberland National Park then retire with your loved one to the magnificent Best Western Walworth Castle, Darlington. Take advantage of the four-poster tower suites with double Jacuzzi and the award-winning restaurant.

Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort – home to Maryland’s only Jack Nicklaus Signature-designed golf course – has announced enhancements and additions for 2008.

One of Australia’s most famous and luxurious cattle station properties is to undergo a $1.9 million refurbishment to reaffirm its iconic status in the Australian outback.

Hermitage Bay, Antigua’s newest all-suite luxury boutique resort, was recently ranked in third place in a list of the top ten all inclusive resorts in the world in TripAdvisor’s 2008 Traveller’s Choice Awards.

In March 2008, the Novotel Forest Resort Creswick will not only become Victoria's newest and most luxurious conference resort - it will also become Australia's first drought-proof, year round, green resort.

Hilton Garden Inn has announced the launch of the new URL for the upscale mid-priced brand: HGI.com to make it easier for travellers to find the nearest Hilton Garden Inn and enjoy their next getaway at one of more than 350 Hilton Garden Inn locations throughout North America and Europe.

Chrysalis Health, the leading Edinburgh based lifestyle company, have announced the dates for their luxury detoxifying health retreat based in the beautiful Granada province of Spain.

You've woken early to see the sun rise over Uluru (Ayers Rock); you've trekked through the ancient domes of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas); and you've seen the sunset from the back of a Harley.

Tickets for the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in August always sell out in record time. However, for those looking to experience this unique event, The Gleneagles Hotel, the world-renowned AA Five Red Star resort in Perthshire, is offering an exclusive residential package, which includes ‘the hottest ticket in town’.

Crerar Hotels is launching the biggest spa in the Highlands and Islands with the opening of a new, impressive facility at the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa at Craignure Bay on the Isle of Mull.

2008 is the fourth year in which Hastings Hotels are teaming up with Co-Opera Ireland to present three evenings of the finest Opera and Cuisine at the Culloden Estate & Spa, Belfast.

The Twelve Apostles Hotel And Spa has been voted third in the Hotel Spas Africa/Middle East and Indian Ocean section in the recent Condé Nast Traveller UK Readers’ Awards. This prestigious survey polls the country’s best-travelled and most discerning spa users, which gives the award, added weight and significance.

An upscale Mövenpick Hotel has officially opened its doors in the vibrant Turkish city of Izmir. The Mövenpick Hotel Izmir is now the Swiss premium group’s third hotel in Turkey, after Istanbul and Bodrum.

Proprietors of family-run rural retreat, The Loch Torridon Country House Hotel, have pooled their award-winning hospitality portfolio to create a contemporary new brand for 2008: The Torridon.

Corinthia Hotels’ dedicated Meetings, Incentives, Conference and Events (MICE) programme ‘Events@Corinthia’ last month featured among the three finalists in the ‘Best Customer Satisfaction Programme in Luxury Hotels’ category of the Annual Hospitality Awards 2007, organised by the MKG Group in Paris.

On March 1st, Mount Cinnamon, Grenada’s first boutique villa resort will open with 21 beautifully appointed and fully furnished one, two and three bedroom suites and villas.

In attempt to upgrade the back of the house areas and meet the new generations taste and expectations, General Manager of five-star hotel Corinthia Prague, Christian Grage invited local Graffiti artists, Lukáš Fokt and Zsolt Farkas to take charge and ‘turn the place upside down’.

At last there is a choice on the Norfolk Broads. You can now name your room at Broad House Hotel - History retained at this Queen Anne country estate hotel in Norfolk. From Bernard's Room to the Lady Betty Suite, the choice is luxuriously good!

MaisonMK, MarraKech, is an exciting new addition to the cultural and creative scene of Marrakech, one of the world’s most vibrant cities. Opening from February 2008, the hotel is the creation of professional fashion and portrait photographers Paul and Aoibheann Hopkins.

Ambitious plans to create a new destination offering a luxury eating, sleeping and shopping experience – showcasing the ‘best of Scotland’ – are being unveiled for the first time.

To celebrate the new 2008 holiday season in Cyprus, the Columbia Beach Resort has added a new Beach Bar to its first class facilities in Pissouri Bay. The Resort has an unrivalled position on a 2km Blue Flag beach in this exclusive Bay on the south west coast of the island.

Celebrate Mothers’ Day in style this year with a visit to one the spa magnificent hotels from the Von Essen collection. Special packages are available at hotels across the country treating mum to a well deserved rest.

Dublin’s leading boutique hotel, The Dylan, has launched a new service to cater for the growing number of customers who want to buy the same bed as the one they’ve just slept in. The hotel has linked up with Kaymed, Ireland’s leading designer and manufacturer of luxury beds, to offer guests the chance to bring the luxury experience of the Dylan home with them.

Britain’s biggest and fastest growing hotel brand, Premier Inn, today reveals it will launch a new multi-million advertising campaign featuring British comedian, Lenny Henry, later this month.

The Hualapai Lodge, owned and operated by the Hualapai Nation at Grand Canyon West, has placed new premium beds in all 60 of its rooms. The rooms now feature Elite 1350, FR Plush Serta mattresses and premium Serta box springs.

Wootton House, a handsome 18th century country property sleeping sixteen in the rural heart of Somerset is a delightful retreat for families or friends taking a holiday together.

The London Development Agency (LDA) has joined forces with the AA to launch a Get London Graded campaign. The London-wide drive aims to increase the number of graded B&Bs in the capital and is offering ungraded B&Bs help to become star rated.

Combe House, near Exeter, Devon (England) has been awarded a Michelin Rising Star for the second year in succession for its culinary excellence in the 2008 Michelin Red Guide, which is one of the most recognised and influential restaurant guides in Europe featuring only 122 restaurants in the UK with one or more stars.

The Hilton Family of Hotels has announced No Blackout Dates for all members of its HHonors guest reward program beginning in February.

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group, one of the world's largest hotel groups has announced its plans for a new-build 386-room Crowne Plaza hotel in Las Vegas. The hotel is expected to open in 2010.

Specialist tour operator, Libra Holidays is currently offering amazing saver deals when you book to stay at either the 5-star Azia Club & Spa Resort or at the 5-star Azia Blue Hotel in Paphos, Cyprus.

Titchwell Manor Hotel, near Brancaster overlooking North Norfolk’s unspoilt coast, is offering two-night weekend breaks for pet owners and their dogs until the end of February from £130per person B&B for two sharing plus £8 per night for ‘Rover’.

When Lydia Alexander’s Marigot Village home burnt to the ground in March 2007 she thought she would never again have a place to call her own. As an unemployed single mother of five, she saw little hope of being able to raise the funds required to rebuild and was forced to rely on the good will of family and friends to house her and her children, often in separate accommodation.

A luxury Lake District hotel is helping its female guests to propose to their loved-one in style on the 29th of February, with a ‘Leap Year Proposal Break’. To mark the special occasion, which only occurs every four years, the Lindeth Howe Hotel is offering ladies the chance to pop the big question in a romantic and tranquil setting, overlooking Lake Windermere.

Beachcomber's Shandrani Resort & Spa, the first luxury fully all-inclusive resort in Mauritius, has opened a new La Source Wellness Centre. Covering 2,400 square meters the centre will complement the existing La Source Spa.

Hard Days Night Hotel, the eagerly anticipated four star boutique hotel, themed with Beatles artwork in Liverpool is today opening its doors to guests.

Best Western Hotels GB is pleased to announce the arrival of their new look ‘coffee table’ style leisure and corporate brochure, entitled ‘The Hotel Collection 2008’. With a whole page dedicated to every property the Hotel Collection is bursting with information about each property and its facilities with directions, prices and glossy photographs to boot.

Julian Arlett has been appointed Chief Financial Officer of easyHotel.com. Arlett joins the super-budget hotel company from Ladbrokes plc (formerly Hilton Group plc) where he built an impressive network of contacts in the financial community as Head of Investor Relations.

Emirates Hotels & Resorts’ first city-based hotel, Emirates Marina Hotel & Residence has been re-named The Harbour Hotel & Residence. The 52-storey luxury property, a USD 141 million investment for Emirates Airline’s luxury hotel division, formally opened its doors in November 2007.

Hilton Garden Inn, the award-winning mid-priced brand, has announced the grand opening celebration of its 350th milestone hotel—the 128-room Hilton Garden Inn Billings in Billings, Montana.

Anantara Resorts, a leading hospitality and leisure organization in the Asia-Pacific region, is set to manage two unique five-star resorts in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

St Patrick’s Day is a very important day for the whole of Ireland, and Jurys Inns are giving you a chance to join in the craic with some great packages. As well as 16 hotels in the UK, the Dublin based hotel group has 6 hotels in Ireland, in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway so you’ll be spoilt for choice for where to be on the 17 March.

The Budock Vean hotel invites guests to treat themselves to a Spring Break and relax the Cornish way. On the water, on foot or in the spa, there is something for everyone. The Dolphin and Whale Watching Break promises to add a dash of adventure to a three night stay.

The Limassol (or Lemesos) Carnival takes place every year in spring, this year starting on 28 February. Join in the celebrations next month in the island’s second city and stay at the über-cool award-winning Londa Hotel where chic Italian design meets legendary Cypriot hospitality.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed an exclusive franchise development agreement with Siraj Capital Ltd (SIRAJ) to develop the Holiday Inn Express brand in Saudi Arabia. A total of 12 new properties are set to open within five years.

Embassy Suites Hotels, with 187 upscale, all-suite hotels in the U.S., Canada and Latin America, has announced the launch of Business Balance (businessbalance.com), a new initiative designed specifically to help business travellers stay on their “A Game” while travelling.

Feeling stressed or tired? Need to chill out and unwind? Want to boost your energy levels? Deserve some indulgent pampering? Then treat yourself at the new East River Spa - a stunning urban retreat set in indulgent contemporary surroundings at the impressive Radisson Edwardian New Providence Wharf Hotel with magnificent views overlooking the River Thames in Canary Wharf.

Located at London’s iconic May Fair Hotel, the May Fair Spa epitomises pure indulgence and tranquillity. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover a hidden retreat of relaxation and wellbeing. Experience a selection of exquisite pampering treatments inspired by beauty rituals from all over the world, guaranteed to visibly improve the skin for a healthy glow this winter!

Western Australia’s premier small luxury hotel Cape Lodge has once again consolidated its place as one of the world’s finest dining establishments by again making the top 10 in the prestigious annual Conde Nast Traveller magazine Gold List Awards.

The Island Resort & Casino – home to the much-anticipated Sweetgrass Golf Club – today announces several national touring acts will perform in 2008.

I know what you’re thinking. A new spa retreat – just like every other. But this really is a new concept, promising to leave you feeling young, fit, healthy, beautiful and energised. Helena Frith Powell, writer and journalist, came up with the idea just days after finishing her latest book, To Hell in High Heels.

Mauritius based Beachcomber Hotels, one of the leading hotel groups in the Indian Ocean, is expanding its portfolio into North Africa with the construction of a new €40 million luxury development in Marrakech, Morocco.

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has signed an agreement with H.E. Mohammed Bin Ajaj Al-Kubaisi to develop InterContinental Doha West Bay in Qatar. Targeted to open by March 2009, the 60-storey tower will be located in the city centre close to both the main shopping precinct and business district.

Parents have the chance to spend quality time together with the offer of a free nanny service in two new family packages from Half Moon, the luxury resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The Winter Escape Family Time and Good Life Family Time packages are available between now and 15 April.

Luxury travel company Grand Tourist is staging exclusive gourmet events in Chester offering the chance to sample the cuisine of a renowned Michelin starred Chef. Mauro Uliassi will travel from Senigallia on the Eastern coast of Italy, a town which is twinned with Chester.

International hotel group Marriott is ushering in the New Year in style by giving guests who book a two night break at any of its 5-star hotels in London or Dublin £100 with which to treat themselves.

In its takeover of two City Hotels in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, Vietnam, the Swiss premium hotel group has taken another major step in its expansion in Asia. The relevant management agreements have just been signed with the owning company VinaCapital Hospitality Co. Ltd.

As the long winter nights come to a close and spring is in the air, the Ardanaiseig hotel offers the perfect escape to enjoy the Scottish countryside as it regains some colour. Set in a remote and secluded part of Scotland, the hotel boasts magnificent views of the Argyll glens and sits on the calm waters of Loch Awe.

A Lake District hotel is putting the romance back into motoring with new Classic Car breaks. Storrs Hall, a stunning Grade II listed Georgian mansion set in 17 acres of grounds on the shores of Lake Windermere, is introducing the new breaks in February.

The luxury 5-star hotel, The Chester Grosvenor and Spa, has announced that the final stage of the £3 million refurbishment of its meetings and events facilities commenced on 4th January 2008.

Chef School, Folio Hotels’ innovative work-based learning programme for trainee chefs, has won a prestigious industry award. Folio Hotels was presented the award for Best Initiative to Attract Chefs at the Springboard Awards for Excellence 2007 at a ceremony at The Dorchester, London, on Thursday 17th January.

Folio Hotels’ latest offer is sure to be a hit with all parents wanting a post-Christmas break – the kids can come for free - and have their own room! For every two adults booking accommodation in any Folio Hotel up until the end of February, two children aged 16 or under can stay free in their own room.

Beachcomber Hotels has appointed Olivier Roussellier as the new general manager of its private island resort on the Seychelles island of Sainte Anne.

Enjoy all the ‘feel good’ benefits of chocolate without putting on a single extra calorie this Easter with a self-indulgent chocolate wrap spa treatment at Savill Court Hotel, Surrey.

For a very special treat this Valentine’s, book a night at Combe House, a wildly romantic Elizabethan manor hotel on a huge, secluded Devon country estate near Exeter where Arabian horses and pheasants roam freely.

Hot on the heels of winning Best Cheese Board at the recent British Cheese Awards, luxury Highland retreat The Torridon is hosting a Glorious Cheese Weekend on 22 and 23 February 2008.

Despite a turbulent past, the Scottish Borders is now associated with peace and tranquillity and an area with both a historical and cultural significance. For 2008, The Townhouse Hotel, and its sister establishment Burts are offering guests a unique new year escape in the award winning establishments.