Sheraton Imperial unveils its RM6mil meeting facility

THE Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel was abuzz with excitement as all preparations were underway to unveil their latest meeting facility — @M event level recently. Located on the mezzanine level of the 5-star hotel, the newly renovated meeting level took six months to complete at a cost of RM6 million.
Approximately 200 persons were invited to view the new meeting facility as part of the hotel’s launch activities. Divided into lunch and dinner sessions, guests were taken on a personal tour by the hotel’s sales and marketing team members.
Based on an ‘Open House’ concept, the tour revealed the various meeting rooms, set up according to different themes.

Movie theme: Jack Sparrow, Darth Vader, Wolverine and Ronaldo make up part of the theme.

As guests step into the @M meeting room, they were greeted with a Social Network theme where they were introduced to the various social media channels, played various games on Facebook, posted photos on Twitter and had the chance to win exciting prizes.
Next door at Be@M, it was a more informal affair, with the focus being on the 5 Human Truths theme. Guests were shown how the more ‘friendly’ set up play an integral part in the success of any training workshop.
Over at Do@M, there were two themes. In one corner, the movie theme was introduced with ‘Darth Vader’, ‘Jack Sparrow’ and ‘Wolverine’ serving customers. while at the other end of the meeting room, the sports theme was displayed. Tables with golf, badminton and football décor were enhanced with a Wii machine to promote that competitive spirit.
At the foyer area of Ez@M, the hotel’s culinary team took centerstage, featuring their specialities at the main island buffet counter — introducing delicious dishes from the ‘Passion’ cook book — a joint collaboration between Sheraton Imperial KL and The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa.
‘We want to support our customers and help them achieve their objectives.
“This does not only mean providing a new facility equipped with the latest technology but also showcasing unique and creative options, aiding our customers with what’s out there and how they can be different and unique too.
“We believe with this new @M facility, we will be able to embark on the journey with our clients”, said General Manager of the Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel Wolfgang Boettcher.
Complementing the new vibrant feel of the @M meeting level was a whole range of sumptuous cuisine – perfectly whipped up by master chefs in each of the meeting rooms. Needless to say, there was networking and ideas plus excitement as guests and associates mingled to show off the new facility.
With the addition of the @M event level, the Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur Hotel now boasts more than 2219.6 sq metres of function space with a 12 venue options. Measuring 667 sq metres, the elegant Nusantara Ballroom (located on level 2 of the hotel) is the largest function space, catering for 120 persons for a boardroom set-up to 1,000 persons for a theatre set-up.
It can also seat approximately 550 persons for a banquet and 800 persons for a cocktail reception.




Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]

Sheraton Langkawi Recognised As Malaysia's Leading Resort

The Sheraton Langkawi Beach Resort won the award in "Malaysia's Leading Resort" category at the World Travel Awards event in London last Saturday.

The hotel's sales and marketing director Stephanie Choi said the achievement was a proud one and raised the image of Langkawi as a world class tourist holiday destination.

"The hotel had previously won the Langkawi 2008 award for Outstanding Resort from the Langkawi Development Authority and the Langkawi Tourism body," she added, in a statement here, Friday.

The World Travel Awards is organised to give recognition as well as honour excellence in the global travel and tourism industry.

Stephanie also said that to ensure maximum satisfaction for its clients, the 238-room hotel will continue to enhance its services in line with the recognition just received.

This years voting was the highest in the history of the World Travel Awards, with 183,000 professionals voting to pick the best promoters of the travel, tourism, hospitality and services industry in Asia.


Source : Bernama
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]

Sheraton launches new website, adds Facebook

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts announced today the launch of the new sheraton.com, the first hotel industry website to feature Facebook Connect and allow visitors to interact with their friends and family by sharing their travel experiences through today’s most popular social networking site. In 2006, sheraton.com became the first hotel industry website to embrace social media by featuring user generated content. Today, the brand continues to enhance the social media experience for guests by tapping into new social networking channels and enabling a two-way dialogue through the unique global travel community on sheraton.com. The launch of the new site is part of a $6 billion worldwide effort to revitalize the iconic Sheraton brand, including an investment of $2.3 billion in new hotels, $1.5 billion in renovations and $400 million in signature brand initiatives throughout North America.

Facebook Users can Now Share and Discover via sheraton.com
The new site enables Facebook members to interact through sheraton.com over travel experiences by sharing stories, tips and photos about their best travel finds, destination favorites and passion for travel. Users can visit sheraton.com and now post their stories by logging into their Facebook account via Facebook Connect. Once a story is approved and posted to the site, Facebook Connect enables sheraton.com users to tag their Facebook friends in their story, inviting them to jump into the conversation as well as share their travel experiences with all of their Facebook friends. Not a Facebook member? No worries – anyone can post their travel tales and photos by simply entering their email address. Have a question or comment for Sheraton Hotels about an upcoming stay or recent visit? The new site also lets visitors create a two-way dialogue with the brand through its online community.

“The new sheraton.com reflects how people communicate and stay connected today,” said Hoyt H. Harper, senior vice president for Sheraton. “Our guests are technologically-sophisticated travelers who are eager to share their experiences through today’s most popular social networking sites, like Facebook. We wanted to use the power of social media to go beyond merely just transacting with customers and provide a meaningful experience by creating a global community where travelers can easily engage in an active, exciting dialogue about their passion for travel.”

Explore Our Global Neighborhood
Upon entering the new sheraton.com visitors can click on “our community”, or go directly to sheraton.com/community, where they will be welcomed by a globe that represents the Sheraton brand’s “global neighborhood” and invited to explore what other guests are saying about their travels as well as share stories of their own. The globe is organized by region and powered by Microsoft’s Bing Maps and populated with pictures and stories that have been submitted by guests and travelers. Users can log in thru Facebook Connect, allowing them to "connect" their Facebook identity, friends and privacy to the site. The site’s new search optimization also allows visitors to search stories by activity and interest, including beach, romance, sports, business and spa, so that relevant stories are immediately accessed. Each story is additionally accompanied by hotel information, a booking portal and applicable special offers for effortless access to relevant information.

To explore the Sheraton brand’s global neighborhood, share your story or discover new destinations please visit the new www.sheraton.com.

Sheraton Hotels, like all brands within Starwood’s robust portfolio, is proud to offer the Starwood Preferred Guest® program, which made headlines when it launched in 1999 with a breakthrough policy of no blackout dates on Free Night Awards. SPG® offers members the ability to redeem awards at more resorts, more luxury properties, more European hotels and more golf properties than any other hotel program.


Visit : http://www.sheratonbetterwhenshared.com/?IM=SI_HP_PRIM_EN_GLOBE



Source : TDA
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]

Starwood Preferred Guests Save up to 50% OFF

7 Days to Book - Save up to 50% off stays November 5 - January 18 in your preferred Starwood Hotel.

Click HERE to book now!

[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]

Shearton Subang is now Grand Dorsett Subang Hotel

Visit Grand Dorsett Kuala Lumpur website to enjoy their Soft Opoening Special.

Value Promotion includes FREE 1 time Buffet Dinner & 50% discount on broadband.

GRAND DORSETT OPENING SPECIALS Book Now !

Enjoy great discounts with our opening specials

60 days advance… 65% off Published Rates… AFTER DISCOUNT pay only RM217 on Superior Room

45 days advance… 60% off Published Rates… AFTER DISCOUNT pay only RM248 on Superior Room

30 days advance… 55% off Published Rates… AFTER DISCOUNT pay only RM279 on Superior Room

• Stay now till 31 Dec 2009 and enjoy one time free Buffet Dinner at Terazza Brasserie and 50% discount on Broadband usage
• Welcome drink and free shoulder massage upon check-in
• Free schedule shuttle to shopping malls at Sunway Pyramid & Subang Parade
• Pay additional RM60 per night to enjoy Buffet Breakfast for 2 persons sharing room
• Extra bed is available at RM70 per night on request
• Complimentary baby cot upon request

Terms & conditions

• Rates are valid from now till 31 December 2009
• Rate is based on per room per night and subject to 10% Service Charge and 5% Government Tax
• Subject to availability

Grand Dorsett Kuala Lumpur's Contact
Tel : 603 5033 7370
Fax : 603 5031 9339
Email : kl.reservations@granddorsett.com
Web: http://www.granddorsett.com/kualalumpur/





Source : GrandDorsett
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]

Win a hotel stay for Fathers Day

Win a hotel stay and GPS system for Father’s Day.

WANT to win a three-day, two-night stay in the Executive Suite at the Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers, plus a Garmin Nuvo GPS automobile navigation system?

If you’re a father, you could win those prizes by entering the ParenThots Father’s Day Contest. If dads are too busy, mums or the kids can enter the contest on their behalf.

All you have to do is go to the ParenThots Father’s Day Contest page (www.parenthots.com/contests/fathersday/), log in and tell us why you are a deserving dad. You can tell us about your contributions to the family and what makes you stand out from other fathers. Winners will be chosen based on originality as well as the most deserving father.

Grand Prize

·A 3 day/2 night Weekend Retreat at Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers – in the Executive Suite (inclusive of breakfast for two) in Selangor.

·One Garmin Nuvi 205 GPS automobile navigation system.

1st Prize

·A 3 day/2 night Weekend Retreat at Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers – Deluxe Room inclusive of breakfast for two.

·One Garmin Forerunner 50 watch together with heart rate monitor.

2nd Prize

Buffet dinner for two at Terazza Brasserie, Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers.

Father’s Day promotions

In conjunction with Father’s Day, Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers is offering a special package just for dads. The package, priced at RM890++, is inclusive of a three-day, two-night stay in the Junior Suite with buffet breakfast for two. In addition, fathers will be invited to a Father’s Day High Tea which is valued at RM69. For more pampering, the package offers a complimentary one-hour spa massage at Tanjung Wellness Spa worth RM230. The package also includes a complimentary two-hour personal trainer session at the Clark Hatch Fitness Centre. The normal value of the whole package is RM1,863.

Fathers can then unwind at the Piano Lounge and enjoy a 50% discount all day long. To experience a variety of cuisine from around the world, fathers will be given a 50% savings at all F&B restaurants at the hotel. Kinslager tailor and boutique (in the hotel) is also giving a discount for all suits made during the Father’s Day Month.

The hotel is also having Father’s Day lunch/high-tea/dinner at its restaurants. Prices start at RM69++.

Meanwhile, Garmin is offering a 10% discount for the Nuvi 205 or 205W navigation systems from June 21-27. Readers need to print out the voucher (available on the contest page at ParenThots) to get the discount from Aeco Technologies stores (addresses available in the contest page).

Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel tourism news]

Hotel Sector high on Investors’ Radar Screen

FOREIGN groups are coming in greater numbers to acquire hotels in Malaysia, especially in the Klang Valley, to take advantage of the good value and expected strong growth in the industry.

Last year, a whopping 85% of the value of hotel transactions in the country was by foreigners compared with 44% in 2005.

»I think we are going to see a consolidation of hotel ownership« PREVINDRAN SINGHE

Foreign investments in hotels grew by 64% last year with foreigners, including regional chain players, hotel funds, foreign investment funds and individuals, making up 42% of the ownership of 4- and 5-star hotels in Kuala Lumpur now.

According to Zerin Properties chief executive officer Previndran Singhe, the growing interest among foreigners in the hotel sector was triggered by the strong growth in the tourism sector and the economy.

Generally the foreign investors were from the region and the Middle East, he said, adding that there was also a growing interest from investors in Singapore, Thailand and Europe and American funds and hotel chains.

“The advent of low-cost carriers and the strong tourism drive may create an insatiable appetite for hotels,” Previndran told StarBiz.

In the past few years, Zerin Properties has concluded a number of hotel transactions within and outside the country for foreign groups.

“We are basically hotel dealmakers in the region. We are in the midst of concluding a sale in Indochina and selling a resort in the Philippines, and has been appointed by a Middle East fund to negotiate the purchase of hotels in the region.”

Previndran said Zerin was also involved in hotel sales in Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia and other emerging markets.

As the exclusive agent for the asset disposal programme of the Sheraton Chain of Hotels in Malaysia, it concluded the sale of the 207-room Sheraton Perdana in Langkawi for RM77.5mil and the 267-room Sheraton Kuantan for RM36.6mil in 2005.

It was also involved in the sale of the 149-room Merlin Johor Baru for RM10.46mil and the 66-room Merlin Inn in Cameron Highlands for RM13.5mil.

Last year, the 100-room Grand Centerpoint in Kuala Lumpur was sold for RM12.5mil, and the latest deal was the sale of the 91-room Four Seasons in Langkawi for RM435mil.

The 452-room Westin Kuala Lumpur was sold for RM455mil in 2006, or a whopping RM1mil a room

“Malaysia has some of the finest hotels in the region and the growing number of foreign brands and players is adding a new dimension to the local hospitality sector.

“The hotels here are on par with other international markets and the local industry is leading in terms of product innovation through products such as The Datai, Hilton Batang Ai and Tune Hotel.

“New hotels coming in with truly leading designs include Maya Hotel and KL Hilton, which are niche in their market positioning and are market leading,” Previndran said.

Renovation work to spruce up some of the leading existing hotels such as Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, Sheraton Imperial and The Regent is also underway.

With the tourism drive, average room rates (ARR) for 5-star hotels have moved up by at least 20% over the past two years while other categories of hotels have recorded an ARR increase of to 5% 10%.

Hotel occupancy rates in the Klang Valley have also increased from the mid-60's two years ago to about 70% now.

In August, 4- and 5-star hotels recorded an average occupancy rate of 86% while the average room rate climbed to RM361 from below RM300 previously.

“Moving forward, I think we are going to see a consolidation of hotel ownership – from fragmented ownership to chain ownership, and maybe even a hospitality-based real estate investment trust (REIT) like the Starwood REIT in the US.

“These consolidated owners will be locals and foreigners from the region who are already chain owners. There is also a strong Middle Eastern interest coming into the market, mainly in the premium properties,” Previndran said.

He said more top class brands, such as Conrad and Intercontinental, were expected to come into the market in the near future.

“On the other end of the spectrum, more chain-based limited service hotels in the likes of Ibis, Formula 1 and Holiday Inn Express will also be making its presence felt. I also see interest in resort locations picking up tremendously.”

Around the region, Previndran said Vietnam was experiencing a boom in the hotel industry due to shortage of good hotels.

“We see strong opportunities in the Vietnamese cities and resorts for premium and limited service hotels.

“The Philippines is also a good market as the population base is big and its islands are truly a big attraction for the Korean and Japanese markets.

“Australia is also another strong market, with Sydney being the most visited city in the Asia-Pacific.”

Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel vmy2007]

Starwood in talks for more hotels in Malaysia

STARWOOD, the owner and operator of the Sheraton, Westin and Le Meridien, is in various stages of discussion with at least seven parties for possible hotels in Malaysia, including a new brand - Four Points by Sheraton.

"We are in negotiations ... two are in advance stages and five are under discussion," Starwood Asia Pacific Hotels & Resorts Pte Ltd's regional vice-president for South East Asia Peter Frawley said, adding that each of the hotels will have 300-odd rooms.

Frawley added that the hotels include a mixture of existing hotels and building completely new ones.

While declining to reveal the exact location of the hotels, he hinted that Starwood is inclined to have more representation in Peninsular Malaysia.

When asked where else Frawley would like to see a Starwood hotel, he said: "It makes eminent sense for one (hotel) in Johor Bahru. Penang would also be an area we would like to look at."

"The brands that are most attractive to owners in Asia Pacific at this point are the Luxury Collection, Sheraton, Le Meridien and Westin," he said.

He added that Four Points by Sheraton, which is equivalent in service to the Sheraton, a top four-star hotel minus the specifications, is also receiving a lot of interests.

The hotel basically offers full services but costs less to build and is able to compete with a broader range of the market.

Frawley expects the earliest possible date for its ninth hotel in Malaysia to take at least three years.

"Most conversion or greenfield sites would take at least 36 months (to take-off)," he told Business Times in an interview.

Moreover, new openings took into account factors ranging from opportunities, continuing stability of the economy and returns the hotel can generate.

"Sometimes it is prudent to wait for a development and do it at the right time," he said.

Starwood opened its first hotel, the Sheraton Langkawi Beach Resort in Langkawi, in 1991. Today, it has a total of eight hotels in Malaysia, two of which - Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur and Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu - were added following the takeover of the Le Meridien chain by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

The other hotels in the group include Sheraton Imperial, Sheraton Subang Hotel and Towers, The Westin Kuala Lumpur,The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa and Sheraton Labuan.

All the Starwood hotels in Malaysia, with the exception of the two Westin hotels, are undergoing or will undergo renovation or refurbishment.

According to Frawley, all the hotels record gross operating profit (GOP). GOP is the cost of doing business or gross revenue (from rooms, food and beverage, laundry or business centre) minus cost of operations (wages, electricity and amenities).

In fact, he said that the alliance to Starwood name makes a difference to a hotel's performance.

"When Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur's 2006 performance is compared to that of 2005, we are able to see a significant jump in rate and occupancy of the hotel, which was disproportionate to the growth in city (compared to the growth of other city hotels). It is logical that this is a result of the business generated by the Starwood channel," he said.

Meanwhile, when asked if Starwood found it worth its while operating a hotel in Malaysia when comparatively it would be able to fetch better rates in other countries in the region, Frawley, who is also in charge of the Indonesia, Brunei and the Philippines operations, said yes.

"Ours is a business of managing other people's hotel. It is important as a global company to have a significant footprint where our customers (from other parts of the world) want to go, and to service these customers," he said.

Starwood also operates St Regis Hotels & Resorts, W Hotels, and elements Inspired by Westin and Bliss.

Sources

Career change that spelt sweet success

THE creative touch is evident at the cake section of the various outlets in Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers.

Whether it is dainty pastries or elegant cakes that you want to sink your teeth into, they just look too good to be eaten!

The sweet afters have all been given a fresh, novel touch by chef Chiew Siew Chuan, the hotel’s newly appointed executive pastry chef.

Yet, with all that creativity with which he is obviously blessed, Chiew said pastries were not something he had set out to do. His early career revolved around figures, a stark contrast to things creative!

“I studied accountancy,” admitted Chiew. “But while waiting for my exam results, I decided to take a job in a bakery, which gave me my first taste of kitchen work and bread making,” said the KL-born chef.

He did not fare too well in the exam so he decided to continue where he had left off in the bakery.

Deft hands: Chiew putting the finishing touches to the pastries that look too good to eat.

Chiew started as a kitchen helper in 1987 before being promoted to junior baker a year later. He was later appointed assistant pastry chef and then pastry chef in 1994, moving through the ranks at various hotels.

Today, with 20 years of experience in the pastry kitchen, Chiew brings with him to Sheraton Subang skills that have won him many prestigious awards internationally.

They include a bronze medal at the Olumpiade Der Koche, Erfurt Germany (2004), a gold medal with distinction in Pastry & Bakery Showpiece (Culinaire Malaysia 1999), a gold medal in three-tier wedding cake category (Culinaire Malaysia 1993), and another gold medal in Pastry Showpiece (National Culinaire Competition 1990).

An impressive entry in his resume is his four-year stint as pastry chef at the Royal Palace in Amman, Jordan.

Just how did he get invited to work for the Jordanian royal family?

“It was probably the need for a change in environment – and perhaps a better pay cheque – that I found myself looking for jobs overseas.

“The head hunter to whom I submitted my resume called to inform me about a vacancy at the Royal Palace in Jordan which was looking for a pastry chef then.

Chocolate lover’s delight: The Mango Mousse in Chocolate Topping is just one of the innovative and novel creations by Chiew.

“Well, I decided to take the plunge, so I packed my bags and headed there with my family,” recalled Chiew.

“Throughout the four years, the constant challenge was always to come up with new recipes, which demands that one be very creative.

“There were always VIPs from around the world dropping by at the Palace and I had to prepare for huge banquets all on my own. I had no helper, no assistant, so the stress level was definitely high, especially in the first two years,” said Chiew.

But the stint, said the 38-year-old, was a satisfying, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In his current role at Sheraton Subang, Chiew is in charge of ensuring consistency of quality in presentation of dessert and bakery items, leading his team of 10, maintaining safety and hygiene in the pastry department, food costing, and menu engineering.

He also speaks on the ‘Cake of the Month’ special promotion which highlights a particular cake each month.

This month, it is Pecan Cheese-cake, available at the hotel’s Café Aroma.

“I think my strategy here will be to try to be as creative as possible. People like to see changes and try new stuff, so we will try our best to cater to that adventurous palate,” added Chiew.

Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel vmy2007]

Sheraton helps Trio Dream come True - Lunching with Ferari F1 Drivers

Jubilant: Shell Brand & CVP manager Moy Lai Yee with Ang (left) and Farris.

Their grand prize was inclusive of an exclusive meeting and luncheon with Ferrari F1 team drivers Kimi Raikkonen and Felipe Massa, a grandstand view for both the qualifying round and race day, Ferrari merchandise, accommo-dation at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel and also transfer cost to the Sepang Circuit.

Both the grand prize winners were also allowed to bring along a companion to the circuit.

Farris, 39, from Shah Alam, said the win was a dream come true.

Ang, 31, a distribution manager, said he felt the same way.

“I thought it was a prank call from the local radio deejays when the organiser called me to say that I had won the grand prize. As soon as I realised that it was not a joke, I was overjoyed,” Ang said.

Farris and Ang were also given a tour around the pit lane.

One for the album: (From left) Ang, Farris, Raikkonen, Massa and Lee Chor Voon taking a group photo with the F1 race car behind them.

Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel vmy2007]

Take a Break and Enjoy some Malaysian Hotel Packages - Sunway Resort, Westin, Sheraton, FHI Hotels, Cyberview, Equatorial, Renaissance

Nothing beats good old-fashioned family retreats that include sun, sand and surf. Check out Weekender’s choices of hotel packages.

Cyberview Lodge Resort & Spa

Enjoy a family vacation in an oasis just 30 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur. The Cyberview Lodge Resort & Spa’s Cuti Sekolah Package at RM358++ per night includes one night’s chalet stay, breakfast and dim sum lunch for two and entry to the Sembunyi Spa Wet Area for two. An additional RM38++ will be charged per child under 12 years old. Valid from March 10-March 18. Or you could enjoy the Family Retreat Package at RM598++ per night for a chalet inclusive of breakfast, lunch and dinner for two adults and two children, plus entry to the spa for adults.

Reservations: (03) 8312 7000 or visit www.cyberview-lodge.com

FHI Hotels

FHI Location Sensations packages offer one-night stay in a deluxe room at the Crown Princess Kuala Lumpur at RM208++, superior room at The Federal Kuala Lumpur at RM198++ or a superior room at Hotel Capitol Kuala Lumpur for RM178++ (all per room, per night, inclusive of breakfast). Valid until May 31.

Reservations: visit fhihotels.com (book online and receive a fruit basket)

Hotel Equatorial Penang

For those planning to get away to Penang for the weekend (Friday to Saturday included), the five-star Hotel Equatorial Penang is ideally located just minutes away from the Penang Bridge, Penang International Airport and Queensbay Mall – the largest shopping centre in the island. Its Weekend Retreat Package priced from RM260++ per room per night includes one night’s accommodation and a RM100 food and beverage credit redeemable plan at any of the hotel’s five outlets. Half of the unused credit will be given to you upon checkout. Valid till Dec 31.

Reservations: (04) 643 8111, e-mail info@pen.equatorial.com or visit www.equatorial.com

Renaissance Kuala Lumpur

An Olympic-sized swimming pool, 24-hour fitness centre, fine dining restaurants and shopping await in the Renaissance Weekend Escapade. The package offers a Superior Room at the East Wing for RM275 or the Deluxe Room at the West Wing for RM315 (both per room per night) inclusive of buffet breakfast for two adults and two children below 12. The hotel has a shuttle service to the Kuala Lumpur City Centre at just RM2 per person (one way). The package is valid until June 30.

Reservations: (03) 2164 8877/toll free 1800 80 7706 or visit www.klrenaissance.com

Sheraton Langkawi Beach Resort

The Sheraton Langkawi Beach Resort offers a Feast Your Eyes Package between March 15 and May 31 at RM1,120. It includes two night’s stay in a Superior Room, breakfast for two, a buffet dinner for two, one cocktail per guest and complimentary use of the fitness centre, gym, sauna and Jacuzzi. Garden Rooms are priced at RM1,200 or try a Partial Sea View Room at RM1,260.

Reservations: (04) 952 8032 or visit www.sheraton.com/langkawi

Unwind: You may choose to do it on a roller-coaster or merry-go-round at the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park.

Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa

Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa’s Family Affair Package, which is packed with leisure activities, valid until Jan 1 next year. The three-day/two night package for two adults and two children (below 12), is priced at RM888++ at the Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa or RM688++ at the Pyramid Tower Hotel. Included are breakfast and one-day admission to the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park for two adults and two children, welcome drinks, fruit basket, RM100 food and beverage credit and a privilege shopping card for the Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall.

Reservations: (03) 7492 8000, e-mail bookroomsrhs@sunwayhotels.com or visit www.sunwayhotels.com

Westin Langkawi

Lots of possibilities are offered at the newly re-branded Westin Langkawi. The Private Ocean View Pool Villa Getaway at RM2,500 offers a free night’s stay with any one night booked in its luxurious one-bedroom villa with private infinity pool.

The package covers American breakfast in the villa, usage of I-pod player, free high speed Internet, 30-minute massage treatment for one guest within 24 hours of arrival, complimentary use of the Westin Airport Lounge, chocolate pralines and a bottle of white wine upon arrival. Valid from March 1 to June 30.

Or go for the Renewal Package at RM640 per night that includes complimentary upgrade to Deluxe Patio Room, a one hour Heavenly Spa session and daily use of the gymnasium. You need to book for a minimum of two nights. The package is valid until June 30 (quote the package code of PKRENEW.

Reservations: (04) 960 8871/960 8888), international toll free line 1800 325 3535, e-mail westin.langkawi@westin.com or visit www.westin.com/langkawi

The Westin Kuala Lumpur

No time to leave town for some rest? Just escape to The Westin Kuala Lumpur. Overnight accommodation in a Deluxe City View Room for two starts at RM385++ per night until Dec 30. It is inclusive of a Daily Breakfast Adventure in The Living Room for two, late checkout at 2pm and RM50 food and beverage voucher to be utilised at Eest, Prego or The Living Room. Families benefit too as they can enjoy a special rate when booking an interconnecting room at RM275++ per night inclusive of breakfast for two adults or four children.

Reservations: (03) 2731 8333, e-mail twkl.reservations@westin.com or visit westin.com/kualalumpur

Disclaimer: terms, conditions, room availability, taxes or surcharge apply at individual hotels, so do enquire first before making reservations. Weekender is not liable for any accuracies or disputes arising from this free listings service.

Source : STAR (Compiled by Chin Mui Yoon )
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel vmy2007]

Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers serving Five Types of Yee Sang

Dried scallops used in salad dish

IT is time to toss up good fortune and wealth again with the impending arrival of the Year of the Boar.

Interesting: The chef’s Special Baked Cod Fish.

At The Emperor Restaurant in Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers, five types of yee sang are available.

The five yee sang varieties have interesting names – Shredded Pear Yee Sang, Canada Surf Clam Yee Sang, Sliced Hamachi Australian Yellow Tail Yee Sang, Sliced Abalone Yee Sang and the Four Seasons Prosperity Yee Sang.

The hotel executive Chinese chef Michael Wong said the Four Seasons Prosperity Yee Sang is the restaurant's highlight.

“I think we are the only hotel serving this yee sang with four types of fish like butter fish, salmon, tuna and jelly fish.

“The other varieties are more common so the Four Seasons is definitely our in-house signature dish and must-try for guests,” said Wong.

Five types of prosperity set menus with up to nine courses, all auspiciously named, have also been created for the festive celebration.

The set menus are given names like Spring & Happiness, Everlasting Prosperity, Wealth & Fortune, Prosperity & Wishes and Golden Prosperity.

They are respectively priced at RM888++, RM988++, RM1,138++, RM1,388++ and RM2,388++ per table of eight to 10 people, and served with complimentary Sheraton Pur Erh Tea.

During a media preview, Wong served the Sauteed Fresh Prawn with Macadamia and Asparagus.

The vegetable dish is creatively served on translucent Vietnamese popiah skin that has been pre-fried, moulding it into the shape of a bowl.

The Braised Japanese Dried Scallop with Black Moss and Oyster was served on a bed of the sang choy vegetable, which Wong said is a must-have vegetable during Chinese New Year.

Creative: The Sauteed Fresh Prawn with Macadamia and asparagus served on translucent Vietnamese popiah skin.

“The dried scallops are imported from Japan and are brown in colour.

“The country has the most beautiful dried scallops in terms of texture and freshness,” said Wong.

From the a la carte list, he recommended the Double Boiled Shark’s Fin Soup with Abalone and filled with premium delicacies like fish maw, scallop and also chicken meat.

“The shark’s fin is of higher grade and quality and is thicker and also longer. So the price per soup portion may be deemed rather expensive but customers are getting the best items,” said Wong.

The chef’s Special Baked Cod Fish, said Wong, is unique with its special sauce.

“It looks like we used cheese to make the sauce but in fact, there’s no cheese.

“The sauce is purely made from mayonnaise and other ingredients,” he said.

The highlight of the Chinese New Year feast is the traditional calligraphy scroll of best wishes which each patron will receive upon dining at the restaurant.

A traditional calligraphy stall will be set up featuring personally handwritten scrolls of Chinese characters by calligrapher Master K.C. Chia for each diner, available from Feb 17 to March 4 (except for Feb 18, 19 and 20).

The 44-year-old Chia has been writing calligraphy for the past six years, doing it mostly for friends on special occasions.

Best wishes: Chia preparing a calligraphy scroll which will be given to diners at the Emperor Restaurant.

This marks his first collaboration with the hotel where he will be writing on red paper for patrons to hang on doors outside their homes.

“The Chinese New Year promotion is available daily for lunch and dinner until March 3.

THE EMPEROR, Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers, Jalan SS12/1, Subang Jaya (Tel: 03-5031 6060 ext 1954). Business Hours: Daily, lunch (noon-2.30pm); dinner (6pm-10.30pm).

Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel vmy2007]

Sheraton Penang Exudes a Sweet Fragrance

GOING all out in full flower power, Sheraton Penang Hotel is vying for honours at the inter-hotel best decoration competition held in conjunction with Floral Fest 2007.

Its general manager Ahmad Buk-hari Hamzah said: “This is among our efforts to support the government’s programmes.

“I understand that there are six hotels in Penang which are taking part in the competition.”

For a week starting on Friday, the hotel’s front service staff would be wearing floral-themed uniform.

A stunning garden showcasing both artificial and fresh flowers is also featured at the lobby which is permeated with a lavender scent.

Its sales and marketing director Damian Chua said the hotel was spending about RM15,000 for the project.

A cocktail reception attended by assemblymen Cheang Chee Gooi and Looi Swee Cheang was held at the event’s launching on Friday night.

Long-staying guests and travel trade representatives were also there.

Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news travel tourism travel vmy2007]

Sheraton Subang's Unique Christmas Crystal Tree

SUBANG JAYA: A Christmas tree made of crystal greets visitors to the Sheraton Subang Hotel and Towers here.

Constructed entirely from crystal pieces it is believed to be the first of its kind in Malaysia.

“The tree is made in such a way so as to highlight the hotel’s Christmas theme 'Magical Christmas',” said the hotel's marketing and communications manager Elaine Aisyah.

“Crystal pieces are among the latest decorations being used by people on their Christmas trees.
“We used to have candy canes, aluminium foils, wreaths and Christmas bells. But to have a tree made entirely of crystal, that is something unique and it exudes elegance and prestige. It is somewhat chaste and highlights the purity of Christmas.”

Aisyah said the tree's structure and base were made of stainless steel, adding that it weighed about 400kg.

“We have used one of the highest grade crystal, imported from China to build the tree.

“No one in this country has a crystal Christmas tree and we thought we would do something different and unique, something out of the ordinary to usher in Christmas,” she said.

The tree will be on display at the lobby until mid January.

Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news]

Hotel Industry Apprenticeship Scheme (HIAS) Stepping Stone to the Hospitality Industry

An edge to hospitality industry
BY TAN EE LOO

LIKE most of her peers, Zamsuzliana Ahmad did not know what to do after completing her secondary school education. When she spotted an advertisement in the newspaper on the Hotel Industry Apprenticeship Scheme (HIAS) programme for school leavers, she decided to give it a go and signed up for the programme.

Little did she know that that move would shape her career path and change her life forever.

Zamsuzliana was one of the students in the apprenticeship scheme organised by Taylor’s College School of Hospitality and Tourism (TCHT) in the late 1990s.

She has since moved on to become the sales manager of Dorsett Regency Hotel in Kuala Lumpur after gaining experience at various hotels.

Recalling her early years of learning the ropes as an apprentice, Zamsuzliana says the programme is a stepping-stone to enter the industry.

“You will not know if you are suited for it unless you try. That was what I said to myself when I finished school. Although my parents did not approve of my decision at first, they gave me time to prove myself,” says Zamsuzliana, 28.

Jointly offered by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Human Resources Development Fund, HIAS is a short, yet rigorous programme that provides school leavers with an opportunity to further their studies.

TCHT has trained more than 1,047 apprentices for over 78 hotels nationwide since 1997.
The duration of the programme ranges from ten to 24 weeks.

Successful applicants will be given free education, personal insurance and a monthly allowance of up to RM410. They will also be given a minimum one-year employment at participating hotels.
TCHT chief operating officer Pradeep Nair says the HIAS programme is specially designed for those who are interested in the hospitality industry but have no opportunity to further their studies due to financial difficulties.

“Our campus is equipped with facilities that mirror the real working environment and the programme is taught by full-time lecturers who have lots of industry experience,” he adds.
Students can choose from one of four modules such as accommodation practice (housekeeping), reception techniques (front office), food and beverage service and kitchen practice.

They will be awarded the Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia Levels One and Two by the National Vocational Training Council upon successful completion of the programme.

Participating hotels for next January’s intake include Sheraton Subang Hotel & Towers, JW Marriot, Dynasty Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Four Seasons Resort Langkawi.

Interested candidates can attend a walk-in interview on Dec 19, from 9.30am to 4pm, at Taylor’s College School of Hospitality and Tourism at Block C, Leisure Commerce Square, Jalan PJS 8/9, Petaling Jaya.

Applicants should apply with PMR or SPM qualifications (with a pass in English and Mathematics). For more information, call 03-7877 9777.

Source : STAR
[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news]

Sheraton's Pure Rooms

Getting rid of pesky bugs in hotel rooms
By RASHVINJEET S. BEDI

Andersson: ‘Our process can maintain the hygienic conditions for extended periods of time’THE Subang Sheraton Hotel calls them the Pure rooms. These are allergy-friendly rooms that have been treated to minimise irritants such as mould spores, yeast, bacteria, pollen, dust mites and odours.

The hotel charges a premium of RM50 for each of its 10 “Pure” rooms.
“The response has been good, with many people wanting to stay in the rooms,” said Datin Jasmine Abdullah Heng, the hotel's general manager.

Sheraton plans to convert another 17 rooms by December. And if the concept shows further response, two floors of “Pure” rooms could be a reality.

“Anyone can make a room totally sterile. The problem is the recontamination process when you close the door and walk away. For example, mould spores can reappear in 24 hours,” said Goran Andersson, CEO of the American-based Pure Solutions.

Following requests from the hotel industry for a system to wipe out contamination, Pure Solutions spent more than US$1mil on research, working with American universities and laboratories.

“Our process can maintain the hygienic conditions for extended periods of time by using certain tools, equipment and chemicals. We did some tests with universities back home and 180 days after conversion, the room got much cleaner,” claimed Andersson.

There are more than 2,000 pure rooms worldwide including in China, Thailand and Singapore. The demand in Asia for the rooms is growing especially with the problems of SARS, bird-flu and haze.

In Malaysia, Enviroverks (M) Sdn Bhd has a joint venture with Pure Solutions to distribute the system.

A room takes one day to be converted with no change to the day-to-day operations for housekeeping and maintenance. The system itself has to undergo maintenance every three months.

Enviroverks CEO Nitesh Malani said the company hopes to tap into the government’s enthusiasm of developing the biotechnology sector.

“Under biotech, the microbiology technology is one of the focus areas. We plan to collaborate with local universities and hotel schools for research and development. We hope to develop the existing system further,” he said.

Pictures:

a. An air purifier placed in the Pure Room ensures good air quality.

b. Anildeep points to the chlorine filter attached to the bathroom’s shower head.

c. Sheraton Subang’s special touch to rooms: an aromatherapy oil burner.

d. Anildeep and Jasmine show the special covers made for the bed’s mattress.

Six steps to making a room ‘Pure’
1. The air-handling unit is cleaned and sanitised. Anti microbial treated filters and tea tree oil (TTO) deodoriser is installed. TTO gives the room a mild scent.

2. Dirt, bacteria and mould are cleaned off surfaces of upholstery and carpet.

3. A bacteria static barrier is applied to all room surfaces to repel micro-organisms.

4. High-shock ozone treatment kills mould, yeast and bacteria. It also removes odours caused by cigarettes, cigars and animals.

5. The 24-hour system air purifier (Class 2 medical device) recycles air and kills microorganisms.

6. Allergy-friendly bed casings are fitted to mattresses and pillows.
Maintenance is conducted every three months. This includes inspection of general room conditions, changing filter in the air handling unit and air purifier, upholstery cleaning and replacement of TTO canister.


News Source : STAR New Strait Times

[tags : malaysiahotelnews hotels malaysia resorts news]