The great outdoors
British weather does not always invite us to spend much time outside, but if your hotel has the space, you should be making the most of this to increase footfall from guests who’d like to sit outdoors.
When considering your outdoor furniture, here are some key points from leading hotel supply specialist, Hotel Buyer, to take into account:
FURNITURE
You’ll have to consider the same things as you would on the interior, such as style, appearance, comfort and shape. In addition to this, however, the outdoor setting brings additional consideration points such as ground stability, temperamental weather and the aesthetics of your space; all things that could make or break the first impression with your guests.
Storage is also a huge factor. If you don’t have the space to store outdoor furniture when not in use, you’ll need to make your choices based on products that are durable enough to leave out.
For a beer garden-style setting, it might be more suitable to simply invest in some wooden picnic benches. These are more casual, and they are easier to maintain due to being sturdy and weather-resistant.
SUN & RAIN COVER
Rain is always a problem, but with the right cover in place, your guests can still drink, dine and socialise outside. Permanently sheltered areas may be the best option, but this may not always be possible depending on the space you have available or the brand you’re creating for your hotel.
Where permanent shelters aren’t an option, large and sturdy parasols can be ideal. These are easy to set up and take down, and they also provide shade on sunny days.
HEATERS
Patio heaters are becoming increasingly vital for outside areas. Firstly, smokers will appreciate having a warm area outside throughout the year, and diners will also be more comfortable on cooler evenings.
Heaters are expensive, and they use a lot of power, so think carefully about whether you really need them and how many you need. It’s important to take into account how much electricity a heater uses, and also look for products with adjustable heat direction.
MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE
Having a quality outdoor space can bring in a whole new range of customers to your establishment, from making the most out of your overnight stay residents to bringing in locals. Although you may need to invest to create an appealing outdoor, the benefits are clear in the long-term.
Choosing quality items is key. High-quality furniture will last a long time, and with the day-to-day use plus British weather, durable products will save you money over time.
www.hotel-buyer-store.co.uk
Readies, steady go!
John Apthorpe, Commercial Director from G4S explains why cash remains king in the hospitality sector.
On Monday 20th March, parliament debated a petition which secured more than 55,000 signatures. The objective of the petition was to maintain payment choice and make it illegal for retailers and services to decline cash payments.
Whilst the Government denied the proposal, this was evidence that whilst the digital revolution continues to drive consumers towards contactless technology, cash is going nowhere in the short to medium term.
Indeed, recent research commissioned by LINK, the UK’s largest cash machine network, found that at the end of 2022, around 70% of people said they’d recently used cash to make a purchase.
What’s more, there are lots of demographic groups that will be left behind if cash acceptance is no longer a payment option. Research shows that groups including the elderly or those with physical or cognitive disabilities have a clear preference to making payment via cash.
However, it’s not just payment preference. The British Retail Consortium has seen the cost of accepting debit card payments rise steadily since 2015.
What has become clear is that whether the payment preference is cash or card, customers should have the right to choose what method works best for them.
As a consequence the modern hotelier has to make adequate provision to ensure appropriate security is in place and that positive cash flow is maintained, for both digital and physical cash payments.
Failure to do so can result in serious financial consequences and supplier frustration - all of which has a negative impact on the people that matter most - your customers.
So how to approach cash handling? G4S has a number of options:
CASH360 is a secure and integrated cash management and cash collection service from G4S. The service involves the installation of one of our intelligent cash safes on your premises. The solution uses software to create a link back to central monitoring services, in effect it becomes a bank branch within your own premises.
When cash is deposited into your smart safe, the amount will be credited into your bank account while the notes and coins are still on site. Then, with the software, you can see your cash flow – from physical, online and terminal sales – in real time.
Of course, your cash can be collected too.
G4S cash collection service uses trained personnel and a fleet of armoured money transport vehicles to pick up cash at your chosen location. From the moment cash is collected and transported it is no longer your responsibility, so you have full peace of mind.
Find out more and access preferential rates by contacting us on 0845 644 1239.
Sublime skin
Introducing Comfort Zone, promoting a balanced approach to beauty backed by science and produced sustainably. Tracy Brasenell, Comfort Zone’s UK Country Manager, invited us to explore the brand and how it can elevate your spa offering.
Please introduce us to Comfort Zone and what the brand strives to achieve.
Comfort Zone, as part of the Davines Group, is a proud certified B Corporation™ delivering luxury, science-backed and sustainable products and treatments.
Our scientific approach is rooted in pharmacognosy, the study of potent and active molecules derived from natural sources. Through research and testing, our team produce vegan-friendly, organic formulas rich in natural-origin and high-tech ingredients, clinically proven to regenerate the skin. Inspired by nature, our continuous innovations led by visionary Dr. Davide Bollati, founder and pharmacist, feature biomimetic textures that mimic the skin.
For every skin concern, we aim to visibly correct and restore skin health with the support of botanical extracts, antioxidants, anti-ageing peptides, rejuvenating acids and retinoids. Free from silicones, parabens, SLES and artificial colourants, our products ensure optimal skin absorption and comfort.
How can the Comfort Zone range work to enhance a luxury hotel’s spa?
Our products compliment the luxury hotel experience by offering unique, sensorial treatments and wellness rituals, enhanced by signature massage techniques. Aside from our core treatments, we offer bespoke programmes for spa’s who have guests that require support with cancer care or menopausal and peri-menopausal skin.
We support hotel spas and salons with a 360 degree service which includes bespoke treatment menus, spa education, a marketing calendar and operational support that includes uniforms, equipment and amenities. We also offer products for the spas retail area so clients can further the benefits of their treatments at home.
There is a consumer demand for sustainable initiatives, how does Comfort Zone invite sustainability into their approach to skincare?
We are proud to be one of the highest scoring beauty corps, meeting the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability.
Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our eco-designed products. Our carbon and plastic-neutral packaging is created with renewable energy using 100% recyclable or bio-based materials. We use ingredients from organic agriculture because we know this practice contributes to biodiversity protection, sequestering carbon in the earth’s soil, and supporting climate change mitigation. To do this, we partnered with leaders of the regenerative farming movement, Rodale Institute, to build the first European Regenerative Organic Centre.
As a founding partner of Sustainable Spa Wellness and British Beauty Council patron, we believe the spa industry has a responsibility to protect the world, and to take care of our natural resources.
How can our readers work with Comfort Zone?
If you’re considering a new luxury skincare brand within your spa, get in touch: customercareuk@comfortzone.it
The Dial House
If you were to try and describe The Cotswolds to someone who lived in a cave then you’d probably describe the achingly picturesque Bourton-On-The-Water. Then, if you carried on and described a typical Cotswoldian building, I should think that The Dial House Hotel in Bourton-On-The-Water would be effortlessly imagined.
It was built in 1698 by local architect Andrew Paxford - his wife’s initials are carved on the front of the building. It was originally named “The Vinehouse” but was renamed after the large sundial above the front door in the early 19th Century. It has been a hotel for the past 30 years and is hugely popular with visitors to the area as well as locals who often dine in the hotel restaurant or Maxi’s Tipi in the garden.
Laurence’s vision for the project was to,
“make The Dial House a design beacon to bring new life to the traditional elegance of Cotswold designers like William Morris, balanced with 21st Century expectations of luxury indulgence and comfort.”
A few miles from here, in Cirencester (recently named by The Times as being the best place to live in the South West) you’ll find a little corner of Maximalist heaven. Uncharacteristically for its eponymous owner, Llewelyn-Bowen Design appears at first glance to blend seamlessly into the beautiful Cirencester architecture.
This Pattern Powerhouse is steeped in Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen’s ‘design DNA’ and there’s no escaping it, not that you’d want to! Flowers, tropical birds, animals, bright colours, bold designs all come together brilliantly and the whole place feels like a well considered, albeit rather large reading nook.
All of Laurence’s patterns start life as a sketch on a page, a simple pen and ink drawing that is filled with details most people wouldn’t even consider; tiny fleur-de-lis on the body of a camel in Menagerie Artois (see above, left); the glint of a peacock’s eye in Galleria; the folds of the sunflower petals in Oscar In The Wilde (see above, right). All coming together, not so much as a feast for the the eyes, but more a chance to allow your eyes to gorge themselves silly.
Laurence has his office ‘above the shop’ where he works with Team LLB to bring his designs to life as they conspire to take over the world, one boutique hotel at a time.
At first, Laurence wasn’t sure if The Dial House Hotel was his cup of tea. “I was a bit feisty about it at first as I’m just so bored of all the Cotswold cliches. Cotswold hospitality is wonderful, but the hospitality context is, frankly, Roundhead, with everything feeling a little bit puritanical.
There’s something Cromwellian about the contemporary Cotswold style, with the green-grey do-not-look-at-these walls and understated style and rickety furniture. We’ve become comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
So, the logical direction to go was completely the opposite way.
It’s very typical of Laurence to take the opportunity to share his knowledge of art, design and history whenever possible and shaking things up at The Dial House was the perfect podium for him.
“I’ve always wanted my designs to be like an afternoon with Google, that takes you off into all sorts of places you’d never visit on a normal day”
He designed five suites, each with its own inspirational Arts and Crafts hero at the heart of the design. You’ve got Oscar (Wilde) Owen (Jones) Walter (Crane) Aubrey (Beardsley) and May (Morris).
They take you on a journey of the mind and will hopefully coax the less adventurous home owner to dip their toe into Maximalism when they return from their well-earned break in this little cocoon of lux.
All suites are designed with the Llewelyn-Bowen Design patterns, from floor to ceiling, giving each space it’s very own identity. They also feature details such as faux book fronts in May from Original Book Works, a beautiful wall hanging showing one of Laurence’s original artworks in Aubrey and a screen in Oscar to act in lieu of a wardrobe.
The May Morris suite (left) became the most challenging room due to its low ceiling and sharp eaves. Laurence felt that by leaning into its unusual dimensions, rather than designing tricks to hide it, he could recognise the history of the room while also achieving a warm, exciting space. It went from the room they’d struggled to invite people into, to the most popular room in the hotel! The patterns ‘Down The Dilly’ and “Pants On Fire Rainbow’ are on full display and complement the multicoloured bespoke faux book headboard.
The Walter Suite (above) is a luscious and vivid embodiment of nature, complete with ethereal green tones and feathered embellishments. The pattern ‘Birdity Abserdity’ covers all walls and is a direct homage to the English illustrator, Walter Crane’s work. It features exceptionally detailed line work and the multiple colourways throughout the room provide a fun and somewhat youthful charm to an already characterful space.
The Owen suite (above) elegantly explores the subtle glamour of pearlescent colouring to create a voluptuous and comfortable space. ‘Suburban Jungle’ wallpaper (above), available from Wallpaper Direct, is a decadent statement design enlivened with wild details. Regal leopards luxuriate the room while the dusky jewel-toned hues are in concert with luscious palm leaves. ‘Pants On Fire Pink’ and ‘Mint Bargello’ on soft furnishings complement the walls to to create a darlingly delightful aesthetic.
Using artwork from Laurence’s romantically Arcadian landscapes as a starting point, the tapestries in the Aubrey suite (right) impart a deep, luxurious sense of historical comfort and glamorous coziness. ‘Pesky Meddling’ (right) and ‘Naughty Aubrey’ add flickers of pattern to contrast the ink work of the tapestries.
The Oscar suite (bottom right) is adorned with the warmth of golden, yellow hues and wrapped in the vibrancy of exotic oriental design. This stunning room is an intimate haven that offers an elegant interior space. Patterns ‘Oscar In The Wild’ and ‘Sunny Side Up’ (above, right) provide a summer vibrance to an otherwise small and
bijou room.
Head outside, and in the garden you’ll find Maxi’s Tipi. Designed to encapsulate long, drawn-out summer evenings, it is filled with sofas, cushions, lampshades, giant floor cushions and feels like the living room furniture has been dragged outside so everyone can fully loaf. “It’s sophisticated, but kinky and feels like we’re bing subversive in a rather suburban way.”
Laurence doesn’t simply look at a room and decide to fill it with patterns and colours of his choosing. He looks at the whole and brings together a work of art that one can recline in and become absorbed by.
Since launching The Tipi and the new suites last summer, the designs that were created for The Dial House have proven to be wildly popular. They’ve featured on Changing Rooms, are in the new collection at Next and are firm favourites at the aforementioned showroom in Cirencester.
Our 3D renders of the Tipi allowed us to showcase our visions to the clients early on in the process. They were able to visualise how our pattern, product and the space’s natural lighting will come together to create the maximalist emporium from Laurence’s vision.
These designs are a small glimpse of the huge array of patterns that Laurence has designed since opening up the showroom in 2021 and there’s plenty more where they came from.
Spa at St. David’s rejuvenated with OSKIA
The Spa at St. David’s, located within vocoÆ St. David’s, Cardiff, has re-opened following a recent £300K investment in the rejuvenation of its leisure facilities. With a new sauna, revitalised pool, shower area and changing rooms; the renovation project also includes the introduction of a brand new, premium treatment house, ‘OSKIA’. The multi-award-winning British brand, which has its manufacturing and skincare laboratory in Monmouth, South Wales, has exclusively collaborated with Spa at St. David’s to offer a range of bespoke treatments for guests in the first partnership of its kind with a Welsh hotel and spa.
Speaking about the re-opening and the collaboration with OSKIA, Finlay Anderson, Spa and Leisure Director, Spa at St. David’s comments:
“We’re excited to re-open and welcome guests to a refreshed, relaxed spa; where they can enjoy our newly revitalised facilities and indulge in our luxurious partnership with OSKIA, for a truly relaxing wellness experience. Our therapists have undergone specialist training from OSKIA skincare experts to be able to offer a range of six new treatments which are exclusive to Spa at St. David’s. The treatments, which are bespoke to us, have been designed to showcase the unique qualities of OSKIA’s multi-award-winning nutritional skincare range. Guests can choose from express and full treatments, which relieve tension and leave skin soft and glowing; leaving them feeling relaxed and looking radiant – luxurious wellbeing, from top to toe; rejuvenating the mind, skin and body!”
Commenting on the exclusive partnership with the Spa at St. David’s, Holly Webster, Head of Spa, OSKIA says:
“We’re delighted to be working with Finlay Anderson and his team at the newly refurbished Spa at St. David’s in Cardiff, which is just a stone’s throw away from our factory and lab in Monmouthshire. We cannot wait to be more widely available to both local and hotel guests. Our nutri-cosmeceutical formulas and specialised treatment techniques add a new dynamic to the treatment menu ensuring a relaxed mind and body, yet a vibrant and glowing complexion.”
The exclusive range of OSKIA treatments available at the Spa at St. David’s includes six new treatments – two express (25-minutes) and four 50-minute. Guests with precious time can enjoy a deep sense of relaxation and wellbeing with a Tibetan-inspired Nourishing Head Massage; whilst those able to treat themselves to a little longer self-care can choose from a choice of three facials or a full body massage. The OSKIA Super Nutrient Massage is a bespoke massage ritual, created by specially trained OSKIA therapists in response to you and your body’s needs; using either nurturing or awakening cold pressed, super berry massage oils to create a superbly personalised experience. Prices start from £95.
To find out more about the Spa at St. David’s, view the complete brochure of treatments or book an ‘OSKIA Spa and Stay’ package at vocoÆ St. David’s, Cardiff, please visit stdavids.vocohotels.com/spa or call +44(0)292 045 4045.
NEW LONDON HOTEL, THE BOTREE REVEALS UNIQUE JO LOVES PARTNERSHIP TO CHAMPION CONSCIOUS LUXURY COMMITMENT
New luxury London hotel, The BoTree has announced Jo Loves by renowned scent maverick, Jo Malone CBE as its official bathroom amenity partner ahead of the hotel’s opening this summer. The partnership places The BoTree as one of the first hotels globally to launch the Jo Loves Pomelo Collection in every guest room.
The BoTree’s partnership with Jo Loves is part of the hotel’s commitment to Conscious Luxury, a concept with the purpose of inspiring a connection between people, place, and planet. Throughout the hotel mindful choices have been made, including partnerships with brands that share good practice, are a catalyst for positive change, and help to balance the interests of guests, colleagues, the local community, and the planet, so all can flourish together.
The Jo Loves Pomelo Collection, which is naturally sulphate, paraben, and cruelty free is also Vegan Trademarked, making it a perfect choice for The BoTree’s exacting standards and its Conscious Luxury commitment. The Jo Loves Pomelo Hotel Collection is distributed by one of the world’s leading luxury hotel amenity providers, VANITY GROUP, the only hotel amenity provider to be PETA-certified, meaning suppliers are prohibited to do any testing on animals for its ingredients, formulations or finished products. Furthermore, the Jo Loves Pomelo Collection is packaged using OceanBound Plastic, recycled plastic collected from high-risk waterways.
Featuring scent notes of pink pomelo, vetiver and suede, the Pomelo Hotel Collection is a mouth-watering grapefruit infused citrus scent and has fast become a cult classic that continues to be the most loved scent among Jo Loves’ fragrances and was the first fragrance that Jo created for Jo Loves.
Founder of The BoTree, Rishi Sachdev commented: ‘Our commitment to Conscious Luxury involves making choices that ensure our people, the planet and our communities flourish. Jo Loves is one such choice. A world class amenity that our guests will enjoy whilst impacting the world around us in a positive way.’
Founder of Jo Loves, Jo Malone CBE also commented: ‘I am so excited The BoTree will be one of the first hotels in the world where guests can enjoy the Pomelo amenities in their room. This was the first fragrance I created for Jo Loves and is all about dreams and being the very best of yourself. It’s inspired by the beach and that all things are possible. I hope guests enjoy the energising, uplifting notes, and through scent helps them create their own memorable moments during their stay.”
Set to launch in 2023, in the heart of London’s West End, at the intersection of Marylebone and Mayfair, The BoTree will capture the spirit of the city’s ‘village’ life and reflect the prestige of central London. Vibrant and elegant, the 199-room luxury hotel, complete with 29 stunning suites will boast dynamic bars; two destination restaurants; a unique club with regular live music; boutique screening room and fitness centre.
The BoTree will be sister hotel to the award-winning hotels Middle Eight in Covent Garden and The Guardsman in Westminster and will be a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ prestigious Legend Collection – the ultimate in luxury.
For more information, please visit: www.thebotree.com
15 reasons to celebrate the Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort’s 15th Anniversary
In honour of its 15th year in Dubai, we’ve listed 15 reasons why we love the Westin Mina Seyahi.
The much-loved Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, located in Dubai Marina, celebrates its 15th anniversary next month. Opening in 2008, the luxury resort that sits upon a private stretch of beach in the Dubai Harbour and has been successfully catering to the needs of its guests with the highest of standards ever since.
To honour the momentous occasion, here are the top 15 things we love about the ever popular luxury Resort.
- A unique destination spot in the heart of Dubai: Set upon the sandy shores overlooking the Arabian Gulf the hotel is situated on a beautiful stretch of beach with breathtaking views of the marina perfecting the art of balance between the city's hustle and bustle outside and zen vacation vibes inside.
- The luxurious accommodations: With 294 spacious guest rooms and suites, elegantly designed, with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings, the hotel has won awards for its design efforts, having undergone extensive renovation across the lobby, restaurants, rooms and suites, completed in 2022 by Stickman Tribe, and winning Best Hotel Renovation by AHEAD Awards, the contemporary interior fits perfectly with today’s way of life, warm atmosphere and modern and is a favourite among tourists and residents.
- Its exceptional dining options: Nestled within Destination Mina Seyahi, Westin Mina Seyahi hotel has 18 dining options to choose from, including several restaurants serving international cuisine from around the world. The long-standing, award-winning Bussola is a favourite in the city, serving fresh, coal-fired pizzas upstairs, offering fine dining on the middle deck, and the perfectly relaxing after work, sundowners spot for sunset views, while the newest member to the Bussola family is Mare by Bussola. The al fresco adults-only beach club by day, and upscale restaurant by night serve celebrated Italian seafood cuisine that transports you to the Mediterranean in heartbeat. Recently launching a Friday night luxe brunch, it's one not to be missed.
- Mina's Kitchen famous Bubbalicious brunch: How could we not mention this classic, fun and upbeat Saturday brunch? In the heart of the hotel, Mina's Kitchen opens up its expansive terrace and indoor buffet to suit all ages and taste buds. This elegant, high-energy brunch is bubbly in beverages and in personality, with entertainment for children and adults in the form of magic shows and live band performers.
- Its unrivaled nightlife: Promising an evening like no other the artistic, yet daring show Papillon, offers outstanding food and entertainment, transitioning into a Parisian boudoir night-spot guests will be wowed by a spectacular dining show, while the recently re-opened underground club Industrial Avenue is the hidden secret of Dubai Marina’s weekend nightlife.
- Five idyllic pools: When staying at the Westin Mina Seyahi, you can choose the kind of pool day that suits you. With two swim-up bars, an infinity pool overlooking the beach and marine, one large kids' lagoon, come lazy-river, an in-resort water park that's free when staying at Destination Mina Seyahi, plus an adult-only option for those who prefer their days child-free and chilled out. All pools are kept cool year-round and served by the friendliest of hotel staff, so you can kick back and relax.
- Private beach access: The hotel has direct access to a private white, soft, sandy beach, with bedside service and a casual beach menu designed for everyone, guests can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and watersports on the doorstep of the resort.
- Heavenly Spa: Step inside and experience instant luxury and relaxation with more than 10 fragrant, warm and therapeutic rooms, all offering a wide range of treatments using products by award-winning British skin-care brand, ELEMIS. Whether you're looking for some well-deserved solo pampering or are looking to visit with a friend, the spa offers both male and female relaxation and changing rooms, each with its own sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. The spa offers a fantastic selection of massages, body treatments, facials and packages.
- WestinWORKOUT Fitness facilities: The hotel has a well-equipped gym and offers fitness classes and personal training sessions, giving you the energy and focus to meet every challenge, release stress, and restore harmony in its spacious gym with ambient settings. With state-of-the-art equipment and high-performance workouts to create a customised solution for guests who are committed to maintaining an active lifestyle during their stay.
- Its family-friendly amenities: Club Mina sat within the complex is the perfect hang-out spot for kids aged 4-12. The dedicated children's club and family pool, offers a range of indoor & outdoor fun-packed activities and programs for kids.
- It’s got its own waterpark: Jungle Bay is a firm favourite among the younger crowd. The on-site waterpark is the perfect fun day out for the entire family featuring multiple attractions for all ages. Right on your doorstep, this medium sized play area has small and medium sized slides, a wave pool, splash pad area with climbing frame and even cabanas to hire.
- Beach front dining: Fish Beach Tavern is a longstanding favourite in the city. It’s rustic blue charm and relaxed ambience, set upon the beach front is a great spot for lunch or dinner. With fresh seafood and meat cuts every day, this is the perfect spot for sundowners with your toes in the sand.
- Friendly staff: The award-winning hotel is known for its warm and hospitable staff and exceptional service. Winning awards such as Trip Advisors Travellers’ Choice in 2020 and again in 2022 has proven the hotel has what it takes to make your stay exactly as you want it.
- Sustainable practices: The hotel is committed to sustainable practices and recently invested in a state-of-the-art, BiG 1500 bottling plant, in collaboration with BE WTR, to off-set its carbon emissions by 1000+ tonnes per year and remove 1,500,000 single use plastic bottles per year from the Destination Mina Seyahi complex by producing 1,500 filtered, purified water bottles per hour.
- And finally, Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina is offering you 15% off for one week only to celebrate its 15 anniversary. Starting from May 1 – 7, the hotel is providing a 15% discount on all room bookings, a 15% discount on all spend, including food and beverages and spa treatments*. The offer is valid for a limited time.
The Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina is an award-winning hotel that has gained recognition for its outstanding services, elegant décor and exceptional amenities around the world. Sat in close proximity to the Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, and the heart of it all, makes this hotel an ideal choice for tourists and business travelers alike.
The New SuitePad Academy: Strengthening the Hotel Industry with Free Online Courses
Developed by SuitePad, the new innovative e-learning platform is set to digitize the training of hoteliers and their employees, as well as students and trainees. Participants have the chance to learn specialist knowledge and practical skills to use in the hotel industry to both advance in their careers and promote sales.
The courses are modular and purely digital, meaning participants can work on the contents and exercises whenever and wherever they want. Accompanying videos and helpful tips make learning easier, and each graduate receives a certificate from the SuitePad Academy at the end of a course. In addition to regular webinars, whitepapers, and ebooks, the free e-learning platform SuitePad Academy is a seamless addition to SuitePad's information and education resources.
MILLIONS OF SUITEPAD USERS GENERATE VALUABLE INSIGHTS
''Our digital communication solutions currently reach close to a million hotel guests each month. We have good insights into what really works in terms of guest communication by analyzing the data produced during their use of our in-room tablets," says Moritz von Petersdorff-Campen, co-founder and managing director of SuitePad. "To remain competitive in the long term, hotels need to know current trends and developments and train their employees accordingly – the easiest way to do so is by doing it digitally. And because we want to strengthen the entire industry, our online courses are completely free of charge."
ACHIEVING SUCCESS WITH METHODOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICAL TOOLS
The first online course from the SuitePad Academy covers the topic of "Guest Communication & Storytelling". A total of seven easy-to-understand modules teach methodical and practical tools for effective communication. The course aims to strengthen guest loyalty, increase outlet utilization, reduce workload, and avoid frequent mishaps. Building on the foundation of the first module, SuitePad Academy has plans to roll out additional courses in the future, covering diverse topics such as hotel technology, hotel rooms of the future, upselling, process optimization, and modern hotel marketing.
ABOUT SUITEPAD
SuitePad is the leading provider of in-room tablets in the hotel industry. The award-winning solution combines a guest directory, booking tool, phone, TV control, and more in one device. More than 1,000 customers worldwide — from renowned hotel chains to independent boutique hotels — use SuitePad to improve guest communication, generate higher sales revenue, and optimize processes. In January 2023, the Berlin-based company was awarded the HotelTechAward "Best Guest Room Tablet" for the fourth consecutive time.
IHG Hotels & Resorts celebrates a new era of luxury in Rome with spring openings for Six Senses and InterContinental
The new InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace (pictured above) and Six Senses Rome join IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury & lifestyle portfolio to bring an extra touch of luxury to the Italian capital.
IHG Hotels & Resorts is at the forefront of a resurgence in luxury in the Italian capital of Rome as two new exquisite hotels, InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace and Six Senses Rome open their doors. The hotels, alongside IHG’s exclusive partnership with Mr & Mrs Smith, mark a new era for both the city and IHG’s Italian luxury and lifestyle collection.
Jane Mackie, Senior Vice President of Luxury and Lifestyle brands at IHG, said: “2023 is a wonderfully exciting year for IHG Hotels & Resorts in Rome. With our two new amazing hotels and a wealth of restaurants opening, there are so many reasons to explore the Eternal City. The city hasn’t seen this level of brand-new luxury hotels open in many years. Rome seamlessly blends together the ancient and the modern styles that have inspired architecture, design and fashion trends throughout the world - and IHG’s two new hotels significantly up the ante on the level of depth and variation of luxury, with something to suit the lifestyle and location preferences of different luxury travellers.”
Whether guests are looking to explore the grand baroque buildings of Rome, the immense squares, florid churches and fountains or live La Dolce Vita by exploring elegant boutiques, bars, and restaurants along Via Veneto, Rome is one of the hottest destinations to visit in 2023.
Six Senses Rome opened on the 16th of March and is the brand’s first hotel in Italy, bringing its passion points of sustainability and wellness to an urban environment. With Roman hints throughout, the hotel’s design is the vision of architect Patricia Urquiola at the intersection of classicism and layered with contemporary Italian art and furnishing. This is also evident throughout its 96 rooms, with some featuring the iconic Triclinium-style marble seating on their terraces. State-of-the-art in-room technology is subtly incorporated along with the groundbreaking Sleep With Six Senses standards of bespoke homemade and organic mattresses, cotton bedding, pillows, and additional amenities to promote a good night’s sleep.
Six Senses Rome has a selection of 12 different types of room, including three individually designed signature suites. The many options include secluded rooms with courtyard views and suites facing the bustling Via del Corso and neighboring San Marcello al Corso Church. While enjoying a prime position in the heart of the city, the sense of calmness and tranquility is still ever present and welcome after a busy day seeing the sights. True to the Eat With Six Senses ethos, food menus foster a strong link with local culinary traditions, whether at the all-day dining BIVIUM Restaurant-Café-Bar or up high on NOTOS Rooftop. Besides the Roman Empire-inspired 5-course tasting menu, dishes include plant-based, meat, fish, and sweet classics with Sicilian touches/
InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace will open in May 2023, reimagined as an icon of “La Dolce Vita.” Located in the heart of Rome on the legendary Via Veneto, the property bears the signature of the renowned Italian architect Carlo Busiri Vici, originally built in 1900 to host ambassadors staying in Rome, before serving as the American Embassy Library in 1946. Featuring 160 rooms and luxury suites in a style that combines neo-classical details with chic contemporary design, the hotel embodies both charm and historical splendour. Multiple culinary delights await guests including Scarpetta NYC, serving elevated Italian and American cuisine for lunch and dinner in a genuine, intimate and convivial urban space in addition to Charlie's Rooftop and Anita’s Bar and Lounge. Charlie's Rooftop will be the only roof top venue in the city open all year round, allowing travellers and locals alike to come together for aperitivo or late-night cocktails whatever the weather.
The opening of InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori and Six Senses are exciting additions to the over 450 hotels in IHG’s luxury & lifestyle portfolio, one of the largest in the industry, and the more than 6,000 hotels available within IHG One Rewards. Centered around guests, the best-in-class loyalty programme offers richer benefits at 18 leading hotel brands and more ways to be rewarded than ever before, all powered by leading technology on the new IHG One Rewards mobile app. Travellers can also take advantage of IHG’s exclusive points partnership with Mr. & Mrs. Smith, offering members a handpicked selection of Rome’s finest boutique hotels. IHG One Rewards Members may earn and redeem their points at all Mr. & Mrs. Smith Hotels, including Chapter Roma to Crossing Condotti or Portrait Roma.
Chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, Decimo, London, welcomes Chef Fernando Hernández, Moyuelo, Puebla, for a dinner & fiesta at The Standard, London this May.
This Cinco de Mayo, May 5th, Michelin-awarded Chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias from Decimo at The Standard, London will welcome Chef Fernando Hernández from Moyuelo in Puebla, Mexico for a one-night exclusive dinner to celebrate.
Alongside the collaborative five course menu, Casamigos Tequila cocktails will flow and a night of live salsa music and dancing will ensue. Peter and Fernando will take inspiration from traditional Pueblan dishes with Spanish and Mexican flavours, evoking both their specialities. A truly transportive evening set amongst Decimo’s 1960s loungey décor, against the backdrop of one of London’s most dramatic views, and in honour, a one-off late-night Salsa club will open in the restaurant from 11pm.
Consistently ranked among the best restaurants in Mexico, Moyuelo has been turning heads in the revolutionary hotspot of Mexican gastronomy since 2014. Fernando honed his skills in fine dining kitchens across Mexico, the US and Europe, including at Martín Berastegui in San Sebastián, where he was part of the team that helped the restaurant to its third Michelin star. Fernando’s dream was always to return to Mexico and open a restaurant of his own so, Moyuelo was born. Gaining rapid acclaim, Fernando’s reverence in showcasing his traditional Pueblan cooking is what has set him apart, echoing Peter’s connection to his Spanish lineage and recapturing those identity-defining traditions through food.
Hailing from Bristol, Michelin-starred chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias oversees the menu at Decimo and puts a fresh interpretation on Spanish and Mexican cuisine, cooking over live fires with seasonal ingredients, creating simple dishes that are designed to be shared.
The Cinco de Mayo menu at Decimo will mix traditional Pueblan dishes with Spanish flavours and cooking techniques in a modern and playful way. Menu highlights include a Beef fat & preserved lemon oyster, followed by Steamed & pickled mussels in adobo, Burnt plantain enmolada with confit duck and finally, a dessert of Pumpkin seed ice cream and wafers.
All will be perfectly complemented with tequila from Casamigos, including a welcome signature Casamigos Tommy’s Margarita served on arrival. Other Cinco de Mayo Casamigos celebratory drinks include: Classic Margarita, Paloma, Tequila Old Fashioned.
Guest will be taken away from the busy streets of London, up to the 10th floor restaurant where the party mood of the streets of Puebla will be evoked. Live music will accompany the evening from 5pm, and diners can expect salsa classics entwined with Afro-Latin beats accompanied by live percussion from Cuban maestro Timbalero Mr Randy Lester Hechavarria.
For those who get a taste for the carnival atmosphere, the dining room will descend into a Salsa Night Club arising from the middle of Decimo from 11pm, with Mexican DJ De La Cruz Hermanos, legendary for his Santo Salsa weekends for over a decade on Portobello Road.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Peter Sancez Inglesias and Fernando Hernandez
May 5th 5pm – late
Tickets are £90, includes a welcome Tommy’s Margarita, five course collaborative menu and live music. Booking link here