Macdonald Hotels & Resorts adds historic Haycock Hotel to portfolio

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:11:44 GMT

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, the UK's largest privately owned hotel operator with over forty 4 and 5 star hotels throughout the UK and Spain, has further increased its market presence by agreeing terms with the owners of the historic 48 bedroom Haycock Hotel in Wansford near Stamford.

Located just off the A1(M) north-west of Peterborough, under the Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) agreement, the 16th century property will operate as a Macdonald Associate Hotel. The Haycock name and all forty staff will be retained, with additional training being carried out to provide the service levels expected by discerning guests at Macdonald Hotels & Resorts.

Beautifully restored with an interior that seamlessly blends old and new, The Haycock is renowned for the warmth of its welcome and its AA rosette award-winning Orchards restaurant.

Under the new agreement, the food offering will be further enhanced in keeping with Macdonald Hotels & Resorts policy for its skilled chefs to always prepare dishes using only the finest, freshest produce drawn from whole, raw ingredients.

Referring to the agreement, Chris Gillett, Managing Director, Macdonald Hotels Management Services Ltd, commented: "Macdonald Hotels & Resorts is very pleased to have agreed terms with the owners of The Haycock that ensures this renowned, popular and beautifully appointed hotel will operate as an Associate offering within the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts portfolio.

"Easily accessible on routes from the north, south, east and west, The Haycock offers discerning business guests impressive and modern conference facilities and can readily accommodate 250 delegates. These factors, combined with its geographical location make The Haycock an excellent strategic fit for Macdonald Hotels & Resorts.

"As a company, we now look forward to supporting general manager Linda Nicholson and her staff in developing the potential of this beautifully appointed country house hotel."

The Haycock's colourful history includes having reputedly held Mary Queen of Scots en route to her eventual execution on the orders of Queen Elizabeth 1. It's also claimed Queen Victoria once stayed within its walls while during World War 1, Sir Bache Cunard used lofts above the stables to produce parts for munitions.

The Haycock derives its name from a volume of doggerel written in both English and Latin by Richard Braithwaite and published in 1638.

About Macdonald Hotels:
First established in 1990 by Donald Macdonald and colleagues Macdonald Hotels & Resorts operates over 40 hotels across the UK, including Oxford hotels, hotels in Manchester, Bath hotels, Windsor hotels and Edinburgh hotels. The company also operates ten resorts throughout the UK and Spain and employs over 4,400 staff and operates in excess of 4,500 hotel rooms. Its focus is on developing its strong portfolio of four and five star hotels, with each offering its own character and individuality underpinned with the quality and attention to detail expected of the Macdonald brand. In particular, the company prides itself on the seasonality and provenance of its food within the hotels, from breakfast through to dinner, as well as its wide range of specially selected wines. As testament to the excellent level of service the Group provides, it has on numerous occasions won several prestigious accolades, most notably the AA Hotel Group of the Year 2007-08 and the National Customer Service Awards for Leisure and Tourism.

Malmaison, Smoak, Hotel Du Vin and Bistro Du Vin create two new food and beverage clubs

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 16:13:04 GMT

Hotel du Vin, Bistro du Vin, Malmaison and Smoak have announced the creation of two new food and beverage dining clubs - ClubMal and Societe du Vin. The brands have over the years created several food and beverage initiatives tailored to their loyal following of diners. In the new wave of voucher third parties they have created a programme where their guests reap the discounted benefits with no hidden costs, just great perks passed directly to the consumer.

Fond favourites at the hotel restaurants such as the Roast du Vin with two courses for Sunday lunch, cheese and wine platters with a bottle of wine and the Mal Steak Nights will all continue to be available, but this is something more.

The two programmes - ClubMal for Malmaison and Smoak, and Societe du Vin for Hotel du Vin, Pub du Vin and Bistro du Vin, launched on the 4th January 2012 with a 50% off food offer for January. On registration an email is dispatched with the latest offers based on the register's preferences. Each month the brands will distribute varying promotions as well as individual hotels providing independently tailored offers for the properties. The user simply clicks on the URL to the registration pages, completes the form stating their preference, and will receive the voucher via email or direct to their smart phone. There is no obligation or cost to sign up and receive the offers.

In addition, Hotel du Vin, Pub du Vin, Bistro du Vin, Malmaison and Smoak will be working with their nominated suppliers to create bespoke packages, events and offers integrating their valued products. Everything from Donald Russell steak nights and La Cave à Fromage cheese tastings, to exclusive competitions and inspired menu's created in partnership with local suppliers; the offers will support the brands ethos of homegrown and local, a celebration of all that's great about the regions and their amazing people.

Malmaison will convert any pessimist with divinely tasty, beautifully presented cuisine prepared with incredible local ingredients and served with passion. All the Mal bars have lashings of attitude, and have been designed with an eye to the hip, trendy and chic, offering patrons a venue in which to sip delicious signature cocktails before taking up the ClubMal offer. Hotel du Vin's concept is bistro dining and an excellence in wine with rooms attached. An elegant and atmospheric setting for lunch or dinner and an ideal place to meet, celebrate or simply pass the time. Add to this the passion for everything from whisky to local beers and of course, wine, all served by knowledgeable, helpful and passionate people.

The programmes ClubMal and Societe du Vin are about rewarding and engaging the loyal diner at a time when the passion for great dining reigns supreme, but a cost conscious market place dictates a need to drive value for money.

About Hotel Du Vin:
Hotel du Vin combines an elegant and unpretentious style with an unquestionable devotion to wine. The luxury hotel offers fourteen converted spaces, including a Georgian townhouse, a brewery, and a hospital, all eclectically furnished in a timeless manner. Guests can enjoy a trademark hotel bistro serving outstanding, locally sourced produce from its new homegrown and local menu, an outstanding cellar, Egyptian linen and monsoon showers in the guest rooms, a Laroche tasting room for the wine-lover, a cigar shack in its gardens, and inspiring original art in its halls.

About Malmaison:
Malmaison offers twelve boutique hotels in the UK, all featuring super slinky rooms and suites, with super-fast broadband. Guests can enjoy visiting the high-octane bars stocked with cocktails and bubbly within the hotels and can dine on the best local produce in the hotel restaurants.

Premier Inn announces opening of second hotel in Stratford upon Avon

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:08:37 GMT

Premier Inn has announced that, following an ever increasing demand for affordable rooms that don't compromise on quality, it will invest in a second Premier Inn hotel in the majestic old town of Stratford upon Avon. Early last year Stratford upon Avon helped Premier Inn reach a new milestone with its 600th hotel opening in the town, with the help of comedian Lenny Henry. Such has been the popularity of Stratford upon Avon that the second hotel is now opening to the public on 13th February 2012, creating 41 jobs within the community and bringing a further investment of £6 million into the local economy.

The brand new 130 bedroom hotel is situated on the banks of the canal near Birmingham Road, minutes away from the Stratford upon Avon train station. Many of the rooms will overlook the scenic canal, with the hotel just a short walk into the historic town centre. The town is best known for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare and is steeped in culture, drawing a great number of tourists to hotels in Stratford upon Avon each year.

Nick Brightman, General Manager of Premier Inn Stratford upon Avon Waterways, commented: "The fabulous location by the canal side gives guests a lovely, scenic view. Its close proximity to the railway station and the town centre makes it perfectly situated for both business and leisure travellers."

Each bedroom caters for up to two adults and two children (aged 15 and under) and includes: an en-suite bathroom, a king size bed, remote control TV with Freeview, tea/coffee making facilities, and a spacious desk area with WiFi Internet access. The site will also offer the All You Can Eat 'Premier Breakfast.'

Premier Inn offers all guests a no quibble 'Good Night Guarantee' - which means if customers are not 100% satisfied with their stay, they will receive a full refund.

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About Premier Inn:
Award-winning Premier Inn is the UK's biggest hotel brand with over 600 budget hotels and more than 46,000 rooms across the UK and Ireland. Premier Inn bedrooms feature en-suite bathrooms, TV with Freeview, and WiFi internet access. All Premier Inns feature a bar and restaurant; situated inside the hotel or adjacent, offering a wide range of food choices.

Premier Inn is open in Dubai and India. On a domestic front, Premier Inn aims to be the largest provider of budget hotels in London (within the M25) by 2012.

Premier Inn supports WaterAid, the international charity whose mission is to overcome poverty by enabling the world's poorest people to gain access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene education. To date Premier Inn has raised £1m for the charity.

The Rezidor Hotel Group and Al Jassim Group announce Hotel Missoni Doha

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:54:24 GMT

The Rezidor Hotel Group, one of the fastest growing hotel companies worldwide, and Al Jassim Group have announced Hotel Missoni Doha. The unique luxury lifestyle hotel will be exclusively designed by Rosita Missoni and feature approximately 200 rooms and 70 serviced apartments. It is scheduled to welcome the first guests in late 2015.

"Qatar benefits from very healthy economic conditions. Its people are receptive towards a new kind of luxury and lifestyle and our Hotel Missoni flagship will be a perfect addition to Doha's rising market," said Kurt Ritter, President and CEO of Rezidor. Doha is the capital of Qatar and home to strong gas, service, real estate and medical industries. The city is also becoming an important corporate and meetings destination in the Gulf, and will be a true sports-hot spot in 2022 when Qatar will be hosting the FIFA World Cup.

Sheikh Khalid Bin Jassim Al Thani, CEO of Al Jassim Group added: "Inspired by Qatar Nation Vision 2030, we actively seek out new partnerships and aim to raise the bar at every opportunity. Hotel Missoni Doha will add significant value to the existing urban aspect and contribute to the commitment and vision of Qatar by greatly supporting the transformation of Doha into one of the world’s leading business, sport and cultural cities."

Hotel Missoni will be built along the C Ring Road in the heart of Doha. The proximity of the hotel, being just 10 minutes from the International Airport and the West Bay area, lends itself as the perfect location for a luxury lifestyle experience in Doha. In addition to its central location, the hotel will be situated for all entertainment and leisure activities offered in Doha and the surrounding areas.

Besides approximately 200 rooms and suites, Hotel Missoni Doha will offer around 70 serviced apartments with one, two or three bedrooms. The extensive food and beverage outlets will comprise Hotel Missoni's signature restaurant "Cucina" with a traditional yet creative Italian menu, a second all-day-dining restaurant, Bar Missoni, a pool bar and a lobby lounge. The food and beverage offering will be further enhanced by a number of distinguished fine dining restaurants providing a variety of culinary tastes incorporating the luxurious and stylish essence of the Hotel Missoni brand. Guests will benefit from an 800 square meter Spa and fitness area, an outdoor swimming pool, approximately 1,500 square meter conference and banquet facilities including ball room, and a business centre.

Hotel Missoni is a co-operation between the legendary Italian fashion house Missoni and Rezidor. Each hotel is designed by Rosita Missoni and combines the vibrant Missoni colours and patterns with international design classics and local touches. Hotels Missoni are operated in Edinburgh, Scotland and in Kuwait City, with further properties under development in Oman, Turkey, Brazil and Mauritius.

About The Rezidor Hotel Group
The Rezidor Hotel Group is one of the fastest growing hotel companies in the world. The group features a portfolio of more than 415 hotels in operation and under development with 90,000 rooms in over 60 countries, including hotel in Nice, hotel Nancy, hotel Sofia, hotel Weimar and hotel Bochum.

Rezidor operates the brands Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts and Park Inn by Radisson in Europe, Middle East and Africa, along with the Club Carlson loyalty programme for frequent hotel guests. Under a worldwide licence agreement with the iconic Italian fashion house Missoni, Rezidor also operates and develops the new lifestyle brand Hotel Missoni.

In November 2006, Rezidor was listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange. Carlson, a privately held, global hospitality and travel company, based in Minneapolis (USA), is the majority shareholder.

The Corporate office of the Rezidor Hotel Group is based in Brussels, Belgium.

Premier Inn launches Christmas Gifts Reunited service

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 09:52:06 GMT

Premier Inn has announced the launch of its Gifts Reunited service.

Five One Direction dolls, 'The Only Way is Essex' box set and a pair of Eurostar tickets are just some of the weird and wonderful Christmas presents that were left behind in the rooms of Premier Inn hotels, Britain's biggest hotel chain, this festive season.

Premier Inn's Gifts Reunited Service is live from 4th January 2012 at www.facebook.com/premierinn. Guests will be able to comment on the wall if they have lost any items and Premier Inn will do their upmost to reunite people with their long lost presents.

Gifts already listed on the site include:
- Three novelty reindeer ties found at Cardiff North Premier Inn
- An iPhone 4S found at Manchester Central Premier Inn
- A 'TOWIE' DVD box set series 1 & 2 found at Stratford upon Avon Central Premier Inn
- Two Eurostar tickets found at London Kings Cross Premier Inn
- Five One Direction dolls found at Glasgow City Centre (George Square) Premier Inn
- A Cliff Richard 2012 calendar found at Birmingham Central East Premier Inn

Claire Haigh, spokeswoman for Premier Inn said: "We're always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that our guests are well cared for, and following on from the success of this service last year, we've decided to re-launch it and do our upmost to get lost presents back their rightful owners."

In the conventions of lost property offices everywhere, anyone trying to claim a lost present via Premier Inn's Gifts Reunited service will have to prove ownership before they can be reunited.

Further details can be found at premierinn.com.

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About the Premier Inn Gifts Reunited Service:
The Gifts Reunited Service runs from 3rd January 2012 for two weeks on Premier Inn's Facebook page. Premier Inn will reply back to consumers from 4th - 17th January 2012 via the comments section on Facebook. After 17th January 2012, guests will need to contact the Premier Inn Customer Contact Centre who will help them with their request

If a gift is truly lost Premier Inn recommends that guests claim on their personal insurance

Premier Inn is open in Dubai and India. On a domestic front, Premier Inn aims to be the largest provider of budget hotels in London (within the M25) by 2012.

Premier Inn research shows that there is a 'wrong side of the bed'

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 12:13:58 GMT

Premier Inn has revealed that there is such a thing as sleeping on the wrong side of the bed. According to a new study carried out by the hotel chain, those who have a tendency to migrate to the left side of the bed are in fact far better off than their 'right' counterparts.

The study of 3,000 adults by the UK's biggest chain of hotels found that not only are those who sleep on the left generally more cheerful, but they are also more positive and capable of tackling heavy workloads and a stressful day ahead. Indeed, those who sleep on the right-hand side are less likely to wake up in a good mood. Over a quarter of people who snooze on the left side of the bed feel they have a really positive outlook on life in general, compared to 18 per cent of right-side sleepers.

The upbeat morning mood of 'lefties' may also go as far as explaining why over half of those surveyed refuse to swap sides with their other half. In fact over 75% of Brits are so stuck in their sleeping routine that they would find it strange to sleep on the other side of the bed. Additionally, a quarter of them claim it would certainly affect their mood the next day, with 23% of the nation convinced there is a wrong side of the bed.

Claire Haigh, spokeswoman for Premier Inn who commissioned the research, commented: "The research clearly indicates a pattern between which side of the bed you sleep on and the mood you wake up in. At Premier Inn we guarantee a good night's sleep for all no matter what side of the bed they sleep on. For those not satisfied with their stay, Premier Inn promises a full refund."

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Notes to editors:
*Research carried out by One Poll for Premier Inn, 3,000 respondents were surveyed in December 2011

Premier Inn is open in Dubai and India. On a domestic front, Premier Inn aims to be the largest provider of budget hotels in London (within the M25) by 2012.

Park Inn by Radisson Sofia supports the Asen Zlatarov Orphanage

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 10:46:47 GMT

Park Inn by Radisson Sofia has pledged its support for children from the Asen Zlatarov Orphanage in the town of Vratsa, 130 km NW from Sofia.

The management of the hotel Sofia, together with Tabitha Foundation, donated 100 bedspreads to 70 children aged 7 - 19 who are deprived of parental care and live in the orphanage. With the support of the educational centre in Vratsa, children will practice their sewing abilities to fit the bedspreads to their imaginations.

It is the second occasion that Park Inn by Radisson Sofia supported charitable institutions in 2011. Earlier this year the hotel generously donated a large amount of used bedding and towel supplies to the IWC Charity Foundation. Pillows, pillow covers, sheets, cover sets and towels were delivered to the home for the disabled in Petrovo and to the Hospice Miloserdie in Sofia. Both of these institutions had a great need for these supplies and were grateful to have received Park Inn's donated goods. The Miloserdie Foundation offers comprehensive care to terminally ill people and runs a soup kitchen throughout the year. The home for the disabled in Petrovo, in the Municipality of Sandanski, accommodates 87 children and teenagers, the majority of which suffer from severe mental and physical disabilities.

The hotel in Sofia, part of the Rezidor Hotel Group, will continue its commitment to society and expand the scope of such initiatives in the future.

The Rezidor Group introduced its Responsible Business program in 2001 and was one of the first hotel companies in the world to devise a comprehensive social and environmental program across all regions in 2001, comprising the responsibility for guest and employee health and safety, respect for social and ethical issues within the company and a reduced impact on the environment.

Since 2007 Rezidor has supported the World Childhood Foundation, with social and environmental activities as well as fund raising initiatives being organized regularly.

About Park Inn by Radisson:
Park Inn by Radisson is a fresh and innovative upcoming mid-market hotel brand - global in outlook, national in scale and local in operations. Park Inn by Radisson offers reliability, great value for money and personalized services, including facilities for Sofia meetings and Sofia restaurants. The hotels are functional, comfortable, practical and most importantly spotlessly clean and well maintained. Park Inn by Radisson currently has 150 hotels in operation and under development across Europe, Middle East and Africa

In November 2006, Rezidor was listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange. Carlson, a privately held, global hospitality and travel company, based in Minneapolis (USA), is the majority shareholder.

The Corporate office of the Rezidor Hotel Group is based in Brussels, Belgium. For more information on Rezidor, visit www.rezidor.com

Choice Hotels International announces promotion for airberlin topbonus members

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:31:28 GMT

Choice Hotels International, Inc. the global hotel group behind the Comfort, Quality and Clarion brands and one of the largest lodging franchisors in the world, have announced a promotion enabling members of topbonus, airberlin's worldwide frequent flyer programme, to earn triple miles when they stay at Choice Hotels properties.

Until January 31, 2012, topbonus members can earn 1,500 topbonus award miles with every qualifying stay at all participating Choice Hotels properties in Europe, the U.S., Canada, Middle East, Mexico, Central America, Australasia and the Caribbean.

In order to participate, topbonus members must provide their topbunus member number upon check-in. The miles will then be posted into their account within 6-8 weeks. The standard amount of topbonus rewards miles is 500 per stay and a stay is defined as any number of consecutive nights at one hotel, regardless of check-ins or check-outs.

"We are delighted to offer topbonus members extra rewards when they stay at participating Comfort, Quality and Clarion branded properties," said Duncan Berry, UK CEO, Choice Hotels Europe.

The fact that airberlin is now flying to destinations such as Edinburgh and Heathrow, means that frequent flyers who take advantage of the scheme will be able to benefit if they stay at the Comfort Hotel Heathrow and the Quality Hotel Edinburgh Airport, as well as many other participating hotels under the Choice Hotels umbrella.

For hotel guests that want to benefit from an additional rewards programme, Choice Hotels' own award-winning rewards programme, originally launched in 1998, has been available in Europe since 2008. Becoming a Choice Privileges member is free and guests either register when staying at a Choice Hotels property or by logging on to the Choice Privileges website.

Choice Privileges members can earn Choice Privileges points or airline miles at 5,500 locations around the world and also benefit from express check-in, extended check-out, and the opportunity to redeem Choice Privileges points for free nights at over 6,000 properties throughout Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Australasia, North America, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. Members can also redeem points for free nights at participating luxury hotels in the Preferred Hotels Group for airline miles from partners including airberlin, American Airlines, Qantas, Delta, and Czech Airlines, among others, and for free car hires from partners Avis and Budget.

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Notes to Editors:
This promotion is available to members of the topbonus rewards program for airberlin airlines. They can earn triple topbonus miles with arrival between November 15, 2011 through January 31, 2012 when paying Best Available Rate, as defined at ChoiceHotels.com at any Choice Hotels franchised property in Europe (excluding Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden), the U.S., Canada, Middle East, Mexico, Central America, Australasia (including Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Papua New Guinea and Fiji) or the Caribbean.

About Choice Hotels:
Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises more than 6,100 hotels, representing more than 490,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 30 other countries and territories As of September 30, 2011, 430 hotels were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States, representing more than 35,000 rooms, and 94 hotels, representing approximately 8,700 rooms, were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in more than 20 other countries and territories.

The company's Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands serve guests, particularly those wanting to stay park and fly, worldwide. In addition, via its Ascend Collection membership program, travelers in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean have upscale lodging options at historic, boutique and unique hotels.

Premier Inn reveals work is the main thing Brits dream about

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 09:42:19 GMT

Premier Inn, the UK's biggest budget hotel chain, has revealed new research* that shows work stress is getting so high across the UK that work is dominating the public's sleep, with a third of Brits saying they dream about work over anything else.

The poll revealed that heavy workloads, long hours and conflicts with colleagues mean nightly dreams are dominated by office politics.

According to the research one in three Brits dream about work when they are stressed in their job and a quarter of the nation stated that they always dream about a colleague if there was a conflict with them earlier that day. For some Brits working life is never far from their minds, with just over 20% admitting they regularly dream about their boss.

Premier Inn asked 2,000 Brits about their dream patterns and the research found that 20% of Brits dream more if they are under pressure or stressed while 50% admitted to dreaming more about their colleagues than celebrities, demonstrating that it is increasingly difficult to forget about work.

The poll found that the average person dreams most nights, with only 12% saying they don't dream. But dreams often leave people confused, with 52% of Brits saying their dreams do not make sense and 60% wishing they could know what their dreams mean.

A spokesperson for Premier Inn said: "Work is a huge part of everyday life and for the majority of us we spend more time there than anywhere else, so it’s not surprising that issues and tensions we have during the day are reflected in the types of dreams we are having.

"It is really important to try and unwind after a hard day at work, but that is easier said than done if something is playing on your mind so we recommend a short weekend break to get away from it all to help switch off."

Davina MacKail, Dream Expert said: "This poll shows that whether we are asleep or awake a problem with a colleague or stress at work can really affect us.

"More than half of the nation stated that their dreams don't make sense so I have worked with Premier Inn to compile a Dream Dictionary to help dreamers to understand why they dream what they do and what those dreams mean."

The Premier Inn dream dictionary is available on the Premier Inn website at www.premierinn.com and the Premier Inn Facebook page, located at www.facebook.com/premierinn.

Premier Inn offers all guests the unique 'Good Night Guarantee' which means if customers are not 100% satisfied with their stay at any of the company's hotels they will get a full refund.

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Notes to Editors:
*The research was carried out by One Poll amongst 2000 UK adults in November 2011

Notes to editors:
Award-winning Premier Inn is the UK’s biggest hotel brand with over 600 budget hotels and more than 46,000 rooms across the UK and Ireland. Premier Inn bedrooms feature en-suite bathrooms, TV with Freeview, and WiFi internet access. All Premier Inns feature a bar and restaurant; situated inside the hotel or adjacent, offering a wide range of food choices.

Premier Inn is open in Dubai and India. On a domestic front, Premier Inn aims to be the largest provider of budget hotels in London (within the M25) by 2012.

SENTIDO Hotels announces the addition of more services

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 15:55:10 GMT

SENTIDO Hotels & Resorts is expanding its holiday portfolio, with more services on offer from the start of the summer 2012 season.

Four hotels will be feature new facilities for families with children: a SENTIDO hotel Crete, a SENTIDO hotel Rhodes, the SENTIDO hotel Kos and the SENTIDO hotel Lanzarote. The package price includes services such as babysitting and children's buffets. 'Baby cosy' packages can also be booked in the family hotels and offer the benefit of reducing holiday packing as the packages include a pushchair, a cot, a baby phone and baby bouncers.

Six other hotels are expanding their offering for the target group of adults and will be labelled 'Adults Hotels'. Guests have a choice of many different sporting activities and a weekly evening event called the White Night. Each hotel has a SENTIDO Blue Bar with a stylish atmosphere and cocktails.

There are also optional extras in the Adults Hotels. Under the 'Man's World' package, male guests can include a WiFi console and an iPod docking station in the hotel room and a sporting wellness treatment, while The 'Lady's Home' package includes a cosmetic treatment and a massage.

Alongside the 11 new partner hotels for summer 2012 that have already been announced, one more hotel has joined the SENTIDO chain. The holiday resort Kenzi Menara Palace is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Marrakesh, Morocco and is therefore perfect for guests who want to combine a relaxing holiday with discovery tours. The resort offers two restaurants, an indoor and an outdoor pool, tennis courts, a spa and several golf courses are located nearby. The hotel can be booked in combination with a beach holiday in the Agadir region.

About SENTIDO Hotels & Resorts:
SENTIDO Hotels & Resorts is an international hotel brand founded in 2009. In summer 2012 it will offer 40 hotels in 10 countries (Cyprus, Egypt, Greece, Kenya, Morocco, Montenegro, Spain, Thailand, Tunisia and Turkey), as well as two cruise ships on the Nile. The hotels are in the Four-Star-Plus segment and are operated under franchise contracts. The concept is aimed mostly toward discerning singles, couples and small families, who, besides quality and service, also value a health-conscious cuisine and wellness facilities along with a wide-ranging sports and entertainment programme. Travellers can book the hotels directly online through www.sentidohotels.com. In addition, the hotels are offered in all renowned international tour operator programmes. The company is part of the Thomas Cook Group. The head office is in Oberursel, near Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Choice Hotels recognises its best UK hotels

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 12:24:15 GMT

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), the global hotel group behind the Comfort, Quality, and Clarion brands and one of the largest and most successful lodging franchisors in the world, has announced the winners of its various "Hotels of the Year" awards.

It has awarded Comfort Hotel Great Yarmouth the title of "UK Comfort Hotel of the Year", Quality Hotel Edinburgh Airport the "UK Quality Hotel of the Year" award and Clarion Hotel Carrickfergus the "UK Clarion Hotel of the Year" accolade.

The hotels were judged to be the best in their brand categories out of over 40 Choice Hotels brand properties operating throughout the UK and beat other short-listed properties located in Enfield, Reading and Central London. The winners were selected by reviewing each property's guest satisfaction and cleanliness scores and by demonstrating consistent brand performance.

Mark Pearce, Senior Vice President International Division of Choice Hotels International, commented: "Congratulations to the owners and staff at these hotels on this great accomplishment. They are excellent showcases for our network of franchised hotels throughout the UK."

Jason Dombrower, General Manager of the Quality Hotel Edinburgh Airport, said: "We are delighted to be recognised as the UK Quality Hotel of the Year for the third year running. This award endorses the quality and service we offer both leisure and business travellers."

The Choice Hotels Europe portfolio of franchised hotels offers business and leisure travellers a full spectrum from premium economy to luxury hotels. Choice Hotels Europe franchises nearly 500 hotels across Europe alone. Brands operated by Choice Hotels in Europe include Clarion, which offers four-star accommodation, Quality, which sits in the three-star bracket and provides a mid-scale full service offering and Comfort, the largest Choice Hotels brand worldwide, known for value and reliability.

Choice Hotels brand properties to open recently in the UK include Comfort Inn Hyde Park in London, Comfort Hotel Luton, Clarion Collection Croydon Park Hotel and Clarion Collection Birmingham.

About Choice Hotels International and Choice Hotels Europe:
Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises more than 6,100 hotels, representing more than 490,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 30 other countries and territories. As of June 30, 2011, more than 450 hotels were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States, representing more than 37,000 rooms, and approximately 100 hotels, representing approximately 8,700 rooms, were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in more than 20 other countries and territories. The company's Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands serve guests worldwide.

Additional corporate information may be found on the Choice Hotels International, Inc. web site, which may be accessed at www.choicehotels.com.

About Choice Hotels Europe:
Choice Hotels Europe is the trading name of Quality Hotels Ltd., a subsidiary of Choice Hotels International, Inc. Choice Hotels Europe (Quality Hotels Ltd.) provides travellers with single access to a network of nearly 500 locations in Europe, including over 40 in the UK, under the Comfort, Quality and Clarion brands. Additional information may be found on the Choice Hotels Europe Web site, which may be accessed at choicehotelsuk.co.uk .

Choice Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Choice Hotels Europe, Choice Privileges, Comfort, Quality, Sleep, Cambria Suites, Clarion, Clarion Collection and Ascend Collection are proprietary trademarks and service marks of Choice Hotels International, Inc.

Guoman & Thistle Hotel's Managing Director collects major accolade

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 10:53:16 GMT

Guoman & Thistle Hotels' Managing Director, Heiko Figge has been awarded the prestigious 'Chris Beaumont Special Award' at the 2011 Springboard Awards for Excellence. The awards, now in their ninth year, recognise the outstanding talent of people, organisations and initiatives in the hospitality, tourism and leisure industries.

The honour was presented in recognition of Heiko's personal commitment to the industry charity and in particular, for initiating the group's fundraising drive earlier this year which saw Guoman & Thistle Hotels contribute over £100,000 to Springboard’s efforts.

Commenting on the award, Anne Pierce, Chief Executive, The Springboard Charity, said: "We were thrilled to present Heiko with the coveted 'Chris Beaumont Special Award'. It was a fitting tribute to the outstanding, individual contribution Heiko has made since he became a non-Exec Director of Springboard just over a year ago.

"His inspirational leadership is an example to us all and he has been a hugely active, supportive and influential advocate of the Springboard Charit, not just by ensuring Guoman and Thistle Hotels’ actively participate in a variety of Springboard programmes - Ambassadors, FutureChef, INSPIRE work experience, Careers Campaigns, and Summer School to name a few - but by providing wise advice and good counsel to our organisation."

On receipt of the award, Heiko commented: "I am extremely honoured to accept this award from Springboard on behalf of Guoman & Thistle Hotels. We have always been very proud of our achievements in both developing our colleagues to be the best in the business, and doing all we can to lend further support to those in hospitality - through our strong partnership with the Springboard Charity. It's been an excellent year for the group with individual colleagues, hotels and the group all deservedly achieving awards for the work we do, and I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed along the way."

The Springboard Charity would also like to thank: Christian Armstrong, People Director, Guoman & Thistle Hotels, Anna Dowling, General Manager, The Royal Horseguards, Ben Purton, Executive Chef, The Royal Horseguards, Ian Fletcher, General Manager, The Tower, Mark Gallagher, General Manager, Thistle Glasgow, Tara Farnham and all of the Ambassadors and FutureChef Mentors at Guoman & Thistle Hotels.

Thistle Hotels also recently collected the AA Hotel Group of the Year Award at the AA Hospitality Awards 2011 - 2012.

About Guoman & Thistle Hotels:
Guoman Hotel Management Limited operates two hotel brands within the UK market; Guoman Hotels, an exclusive collection of deluxe hotels located in central London and Thistle Hotels, a chain of quality full service hotels in the UK's major cities.

Whitbread teams up with the Prince's Trust to combat youth unemployment

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:30:01 GMT

Whitbread has joined forces with youth charity, The Prince's Trust, to pilot the 'Get into Hospitality' programme in the West Midlands, which is set to provide local disadvantaged young people the skills and confidence to find a job.

Twelve unemployed young people aged between 16-25 years will be given the opportunity to join a free, two week training programme, to learn all aspects of the hospitality sector.

Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants, which includes the UK's biggest budget hotel brand, Premier Inn and pub restaurants Beefeater Grill, Brewers Fayre, Table Table and Taybarns, will launch the programme on Monday 10th October. More than three in four young people supported by The Prince's Trust move into work, training or education.

The first 'Get into Hospitality' programme will run in Barn and Hockley Heath, and consists of 10 days of support and training at Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants' 'Skills Academy' in areas such as self-confidence and interpersonal skills, as well as site placements which will provide a firsthand experience of the hospitality industry and practice their new found skills.

Individuals will not only gain a qualification in Foundation Food safety, but will also receive six months of mentoring support from The Prince's Trust following the completion of the programme. Whitbread is hoping to be able to offer positions to many of the participants and the successful participants will be given the opportunity to complete a Whitbread apprenticeship, including an NVQ level 2.

Whitbread Hotels and Restaurant spokesman, Malcolm Redmond commented: "It is worrying to hear that around one in five young people in the UK are not in work, education or training, costing the UK economy £155 million a week in Jobseeker's Allowance and lost productivity. We are delighted to be working with The Prince's Trust to provide an opportunity to get these young adults back into the world of work and on their way to building a future within the hospitality sector."

A Prince's Trust spokesperson added: "The Prince's Trust's 'Get into Hospitality' course provides a great opportunity for young people to gain valuable work experience to help them find a job. We are thrilled to be working with Whitbread to ensure that we are doing all we can for disadvantaged young people here in the West Midlands."

-Ends-

Notes to editors:
*The Prince’s Trust, The Cost of Exclusion, 2010

About Premier Inn:
Award-winning Premier Inn is the UK’s biggest hotel brand with over 600 budget hotels and more than 46,000 rooms across the UK and Ireland. Premier Inn bedrooms feature en-suite bathrooms, TV with Freeview, and WiFi internet access. All Premier Inns feature a bar and restaurant; situated inside the hotel or adjacent, offering a wide range of food choices.

In 2008 Premier Inn launched in Dubai and is now open in Bangalore, India. On a domestic front, Premier Inn aims to be the largest provider of budget hotels in London (within the M25) by 2012.

Premier Inn is currently offering rooms for just £29 (restrictions apply). Visit www.premierinn.com for full terms and conditions.

Premier Inn supports WaterAid, the international charity whose mission is to overcome poverty by enabling the world's poorest people to gain access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene education. Premier Inn, as part of Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants, hopes to raise £1 million for WaterAid.

About The Prince's Trust:
Youth charity The Prince's Trust helps change young lives. It gives practical and financial support, developing key workplace skills such as confidence and motivation. It works with 13-to-30-year-olds who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law. The Prince of Wales’s charity has helped more than 650,000 young people since 1976 and supports 100 more each day.

Premier Inn appoints new Director of Bed Bouncing

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:31:30 GMT

Premier Inn, the UK's biggest budget hotel chain, has announced that Natalie Thomas has been appointed The Director of Bed Bouncing (DOBB).

In her role as DOBB, Natalie Thomas, aged 39 and ironically from Bedfordshire, is tasked with testing how comfortable each of the hotel chain's 46,000 beds are every six months to ensure every guest gets a good night’s sleep guaranteed.

Natalie was appointed as DOBB due to her unique ability to feel even the smallest lump or bump in a mattress. With Natalie spending up to eight hours a day bouncing her botty on beds she has to take extra special care of her derriere, with regular moisturising and being careful not to wear any hard wearing materials, like denim.

So important is Natalie's sensitive behind to being an expert at her job, that Premier Inn may well follow in the footsteps of J-Lo, who famously insured her bum for £18 million, with the budget hotel chain already in talks to insure Natalie's bottom for up to £4m.

With almost two thirds of Brits* admitting that they have suffered a bad night's sleep as a result of an uncomfortable mattress and 63% of Brits admitting to having suffered neck and back pain as a result of a bad mattress, Premier Inn made the decision to appoint a Director of Bed Bouncing to check the comfort levels of all their beds across their 602 hotels. And with 62% of the nation citing that they would like mattresses at hotels to be checked regularly to ensure maximum comfort, this was quite simply something the budget hotel chain could not ignore.

Natalie commented: "I absolutely love my job and really can't imagine doing anything else now. I work with an excellent team of 'bouncers' and we work together to bounce on every part of the bed, before testing how comfortable it is to lie and sleep on. Whilst we have lots of fun bouncing on beds, we take our job very seriously as making sure every guest gets a good night’s sleep is of paramount importance to us all."

Claire Haigh, spokesperson for Premier Inn said: "We're thrilled with the work our Director of Bed Bouncing and her team are doing and we hope their hard work ensures our guests continue to have a good night's rest on our comfortable beds."

As DOBB for Premier Inn, Natalie travels thousands of miles a year across the UK visiting every one of the 602 hotels. Since being appointed to the role at the beginning of the month, Natalie and her team of dedicated 'bouncers' have tested an average of 7200 beds. They plan to have tested all of them by the end of February 2012.

Premier Inn bosses are then planning to give Natalie's bottom a rest and have provided her with a special support chair to use for a two week break before she hits the road to start the next round of mattress testing.

Premier Inn offers all guests the unique 'Good Night Guarantee', which means if a guest is not 100% satisfied with their stay they will get a full refund.

-Ends-

Notes to editors:
*Research carried out by One Poll for Premier Inn, 2,000 respondents were surveyed in September 2011.

On a domestic front, Premier Inn aims to be the largest provider of budget hotels in London (within the M25) by 2012.

Thistle crowned 'Hotel Group of the Year' at prestigious AA Awards

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 14:55:15 GMT

Thistle Hotels scooped the prestigious 'Hotel Group of the Year Award' at the AA Hospitality Awards 2011-2012.

Hosted by popular BBC newsreader, Sophie Raworth, at the London Hilton on Park Lane, the ceremony rewarded the best performers in the UK’s hospitality industry, and was well attended by world-renowned chefs, prominent hoteliers, restaurateurs, hospitality gurus and key media.

On selecting Thistle Hotels for the award, the judging panel were particularly impressed with how the hotel group have successfully kept their focus on the guest experience and developed teams in a way that delivered this commitment - genuinely and passionately.

AA Hotel Services manager, Simon Numphud, said: "Thistle Hotels has significantly improved their overall product and service offering over the last eighteen months. This includes achievements such as full Hospitality Assured accreditation, Tourism for all audits, increasing standards particularly in hospitality and service combined by on-going significant refurbishment have all impressed. All these things combined made them a deserving choice as winner of this award."

On receipt of the award, Heiko Figge, Managing Director of Guoman & Thistle Hotels, commented: "We are extremely honoured to accept this award, and I'd like to thank each and every one of our Thistle colleagues for their contribution and dedication. To be named 'Hotel Group of the Year' is recognition of the sheer commitment and passion our people have shown in developing and enhancing the Thistle experience. We're all very proud to be acknowledged with such a high profile industry award."

For more information on Thistle visit www.thistle.com, or follow its blog for frequent travellers on blog.thistle.com.

- Ends -

About Thistle:
Thistle Hotels is part of Guoman Hotel Management (UK) Limited which operates hotels throughout the UK. Thistle has 33 hotels across the country, many in superb city centre locations, including eleven in central London. With a selection of restaurants and a choice of excellent health and leisure facilities, Thistle has something to offer everyone.

Thistle Hotels is the first hotel group to achieve Hospitality Assured accreditation, across its entire UK portfolio. Created by the Institute of Hospitality, the Hospitality Assured standard measures the quality within customer facing businesses across the hospitality, tourism and leisure industry.

redspottedhanky.com introduces online worldwide hotel booking service

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 10:00:37 GMT

redspottedhanky.com, the award winning online travel retailer, has launched a hotel booking service, alongside its existing train ticketing service. Using redspottedhanky.com customers can book accommodation at over 130,000 hotels worldwide and earn loyalty points which can be redeemed on future train travel.

In yet another new development from redspottedhanky.com, winner of the Innovation category at the 2011 National Rail Awards, customers will earn double loyalty points on any hotel booking made through the online travel retailer meaning that customers can now earn even more points.

The launch of redspottedhanky.com's hotel booking service will allow customers to book all their travel on one easy to use website with no booking fees, credit/debit card fees or delivery fees.

James Bain, director at redspottedhanky.com said: "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers double loyalty points on over 130,000 hotels worldwide. As well as making sure our customers are getting the cheapest rail fares, we are now able to offer them some of the best hotel rates available. We believe that by integrating hotels we are able to offer a more rounded travel service. By adding accommodation to redspottedhanky.com with double loyalty points we are committed to rewarding our customers with the potential to get even more savings on rail fares.

"We are the only train ticket booking service to offer loyalty points for booking train tickets - and now double points can be earned on hotel bookings too, it is one more reason to use redspottedhanky.com."

About redspottedhanky.com:
Redspottedhanky.com is an online travel retailer, providing an easy way for leisure and business travellers to compare and book cheap train tickets online, and to save up to 80% on the cost of tickets booked in advance. Most notably, redspottedhanky.com offers something truly unique when buying train tickets online: it is the first ever British online retailer to offer loyalty points that can be redeemed against future train travel for any journey in Great Britain.

For regular train travellers, participation in the loyalty scheme would allow them to earn points for redemption against future rail travel and be rewarded beyond the price of a single ticket.

Redspottedhanky.com's loyalty programme - the first and only rewards scheme available for train travel - now allows travellers to earn double points on hotel bookings for redemption against future rail travel and hotels, which are part of the loyalty programme scheme.

Redspottedhanky.com won the Innovation category at the 2011 National Rail Awards. The judges were particularly impressed by redspottedhanky.com’s efforts to increase footfall at railway stations nation-wide and to get the best deal for customers.

PR contact:
Alastair McCormick
MSL London
Pembroke Building
Kensington Village
Avonmore Road
London
W14 8DG
02078783137
www.redspottedhanky.com

Choice Hotels announces October half term offers

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 17:05:31 GMT

Choice Hotels Europe, the hotel group behind the Comfort, Quality and Clarion brands, is offering half term packages at a number of properties specially designed for families who want to make the most of the October break.

For those wanting to explore the midlands and the north west of England, Quality Hotel Stoke on Trent is offering a package including a one-day family pass to Alton Towers, when a family of two adults and two children stays in a family room at the hotel for two consecutive nights*. To qualify for the stay all children must be under 12 years of age. The hotel also offers its guests complimentary car parking, a newly refurbished restaurant and free access to the Quality Hotels health club and spa with indoor heated pool, massage therapist and sauna.

The Clarion Collection Croydon Park Hotel is offering a two-night stay for two adults and two children which includes a full English Breakfast each morning, a sumptuous five course dinner on one evening, and a one day family travel card to visit nearby London*. Recently re-branded, this award-winning hotel is located in the heart of Croydon town centre with easy access to Central London and the South East. Guests also benefit from free parking as well as access to a health and fitness centre that boasts a pool, separate children’s pool, hot tub, sauna, solarium, gym and squash court.

The Quality Hotel Birmingham is offering families an Activity Break. Families who stay one night in a family room also receive tickets to a selection of attractions that include Cadbury's World, West Midlands Safari Park, Dudley Zoological Garden and the Black Country Museum*. Breakfast is also included and guests can use the hotel's new leisure facilities including gym, sauna, spa, hot tub and indoor swimming pool.

Reservations for the family breaksmust be made on www.choicehotelsuk.co.uk, or by calling 0800 44 44 44. Offers are subject to availability, and are being offered for a limited time, so families interested in making it a special October half term should make their bookings as soon as possible on www.choicehotelsuk.co.uk.

Notes to Editors:
*All offers are subject to availability, and terms and conditions apply. Please visit www.choicehotelsuk.co.uk for more information.

About Choice Hotels International:
Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises more than 6,100 hotels, representing more than 490,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 30 other countries and territories. As of June 30, 2011, more than 450 hotels were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States, representing more than 37,000 rooms, and approximately 100 hotels, representing approximately 8,700 rooms, were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in more than 20 other countries and territories. The company's Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands serve guests worldwide. In addition, via its Ascend Collection membership program, travelers in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean have upscale lodging options at historic, boutique and unique hotels.

Additional corporate information may be found on the Choice Hotels International, Inc. Web site, which may be accessed at www.choicehotels.com.

About Choice Hotels Europe
Choice Hotels Europe is the trading name of Quality Hotels Ltd., a subsidiary of Choice Hotels International, Inc, providing travellers with single access to a network of nearly 500 locations in Europe, including over 40 in the UK, under the Comfort, Quality and Clarion brands. Additional information may be found on the Choice Hotels Europe Web site: choicehotelsuk.co.uk .

Radisson Blu announces the re-launch of The Box Appeal

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 11:15:24 GMT

Radisson Blu and Park Inn Hotels have announced the re-launch and re-branding of The Box Appeal (formerly known as the ShoeBox Appeal) for 2011. The charity campaign aims to help more people than ever before acorss the Middle East and runs until the 15th of September. Held in conjunction with the Red Crescent, the campaign aims to provide labourers across the UAE with essential every day necessities.

Now in its 4th year, this is the first time that all Radisson Blu and Park Inn Hotels in the UAE will take part. In addition they will be joined by Radisson Blu and Park Inn Hotels in Oman, Egypt and Bahrain. Overall 10 hotels will take part, with the seven hotels in the UAE aiming to collect 10,000 boxes between them.

Due to The Box Appeal's growing success the campaign has been given a new look and brand from local design agency North55. The creative agency designed a new logo that captures the essence of the appeal, giving the campaign a unique identity.

North55 is not the only local company to generously donate time and resources to The Box Appeal. This year Radio 1 & Radio 2, part of Gulf News Broadcasting, are supporting the campaign with an unprecedented cross station campaign. The aim is to raise more awareness, encouraging people young and old to get involved and make a difference.

The Box Appeal asks people to give back to those who need it most by filling a small box with a list of everyday items, such as toothpaste, t-shirt, a cap and shaving cream. To take part all participants have to do is pick up a box from any Radisson Blu or Park Inn Hotels in Dubai (such as the hotel in Burj Khalifa), Abu Dhabi or Sharjah fill with the list of items and return to the hotel.

"As a company we have a long history of responsible business. It seems fitting to take this campaign region wide this year and help as many people as possible. It only takes a little time and effort to make a big difference," said Marko Hytonen, Area Vice President, Rezidor Hotel Group.

"We're also really pleased to see how much support The Box Appeal has garnered from local charities and companies, including Red Crescent, North55 and Gulf News Broadcasting. We hope that the new look of the campaign will capture the public’s imagination, making this the most successful year in the history of The Box Appeal."

The Box Appeal was initially founded by Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai, Media City, the first campaign was such a success in the following years Radisson Blu and Park Inn Hotels in Abu Dhabi Yas Island also joined the campaign. Over the four years the appeal has run, over 20,000 boxes have been donated, the equivalent of 2 million AED.

About The Rezidor Hotel Group
The Rezidor Hotel Group is one of the fastest growing hotel companies in the world. The group features a portfolio of more than 400 hotels in operation and under development with 88,800 rooms in over 60 countries.

Rezidor operates the brands Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts, Park Inn by Radisson and Country Inns & Suites in Europe, Middle East, including Dubai accommodation such as a city centre hotel Dubai, and Africa, along with the Club Carlson loyalty programme for frequent hotel guests. Rezidor also operates and develops the new lifestyle brand Hotel Missoni.

Premier Inn unveils new 'bucket list'

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 12:25:49 GMT

Premier Inn has revealed new research that shows Brits are in need of some inspiration when holidaying nearer to home.

The Angel of the North and Stonehenge are just a couple of the well-known sights that Brits visit every year but a new 'bucket list' unveiled today features a whole host of new must-see places,

The UK's biggest budget hotel chain has revealed that one in six Brits are unsure of where to go when it comes to looking for somewhere to visit in the UK, despite 63% saying that they know the UK has lots of great places to see but they just don’t know where they are.

The new 'Bucket List' from Premier Inn is full of weird, wonderful and surprising places to visit, from a 100 year old tea room in Harrogate that boasts more than 300 breads, cakes and chocolates; to the country’s highest pub that stands at an impressive 1,732ft high. The new list of essential places to see does not include any familiar tourist sites, so the likes of Land’s End, The White Cliffs of Dover and Blackpool Tower don’t make an appearance.

Travel expert James Ellis, who helped compile the alternative 'bucket list' said: "The UK and Ireland have so many inspirational places to visit. We have history that dates back thousands of years, magnificently picturesque landscapes and wondrous feats of industrial engineering. They all combine to make a rich tapestry of places to see in the British Isles that means you don’t have to stick to the tried and tested sights all the time in order to be amazed."

Lisa Snowdon, who is supporting the campaign said: "There are some fantastic places on this alternative bucket list and it’s reminded me how great the UK is. You don't have to have a two week holiday to have a break so hopefully this list will help inspire people to have a weekend away closer to home."

Claire Haigh, spokeswoman for Premier Inn, added: "This 'bucket list' includes some of the UK's undiscovered treasures and should inspire people to visit more places across the UK.

"We hope that Brits will look at this list and realise that the UK has plenty of places that will give some of the best sights in the world a run for their money."

Premier Inn has over 600 hotels across the UK and Ireland and, with family rooms starting at just £29, travellers can have a weekend break nearer to home that won’t break the bank.

-Ends-

About Premier Inn:
Award-winning Premier Inn is the UK's biggest budget hotel brand with over 580 budget hotels and more than 42,000 rooms across the UK and Ireland including hotels in London, Manchester hotels, cheap hotels in Liverpool and hotels in Newcastle. Premier Inn bedrooms feature en-suite bathrooms, TV with Freeview channels, and WiFi internet access. All Premier Inns feature a bar and restaurant; situated inside the hotel or adjacent, offering a wide range of food choices.

In 2008 Premier Inn launched in Dubai and is now open in Bangalore, India. On a domestic front, Premier Inn aims to be the largest provider of budget hotels within the M25 area by 2012.

Under the Premier Inn room offers, Premier Inn is offering rooms from just £29 (restrictions apply).

Premier Inn supports WaterAid, the international charity whose mission is to overcome poverty by enabling the world's poorest people to gain access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene education. Premier Inn, as part of Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants, aims to raise £1 million for WaterAid over the next two years.

Rezidor supports UN Refugee Agency in Egypt and Tunisia

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:44:16 GMT

The Rezidor Hotel Group, one of the fastest growing hotel companies worldwide, has announced support for the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). Throughout June and July 2011, all 300 Rezidor hotels in operation across Europe, Middle East and Africa have been collecting monetary donations from employees and guests for refugees from Libya who found shelter in Tunisia and Egypt.

"The violence in Libya has forced more than 800,000 people to flee the country – many of them are now waiting in Tunisia and Egypt for urgent help. We would like to make a collective impact, support the UNHCR's emergency assistance and contribute to a quick recovery of the Tunisian and Egyptian markets for tourism", said Kurt Ritter, president & CEO of Rezidor.

"The campaign is a strong and engaging call to action. We hope that many guests and employees at Rezidor's hotels will be inspired to reach out to those forced to flee harrowing circumstances in Libya", added UNHCR deputy high commissioner Alexander Aleinikoff.

UNHCR works in close co-operation with the Tunisian and Egyptian governments, the Red Crescent and the International Organisation for Migration - the agency has established transit camps for refugees from Libya, and provides emergency shelter, food assistance, water and sanitation. UNHCR is also involved in the repatriation of third country nationals fleeing Libya and brings migrant workers back to their home countries.

"Even small donations can make a big impact", commented Inge Huijbrechts, director responsible business at Rezidor.

"40 US$ is enough for 10 blankets, 100 US$ provides a survival kit including blanket, mattress, kitchen set, cooking stove and soap and for 200 US$ UNHCR can buy an all-weather tent to shelter families."

The Rezidor Hotel Group supports UNHCR within the scope of an industry leading and award winning Responsible Business Programme. Rezidor was one of the first international hotel groups to implement a companywide initiative focusing on health & safety for guests and employees, on respect for social and ethical issues within the company, and on a reduced negative impact on the environment. In 2010 and 2011, Rezidor was named as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies. Rezidor's Radisson Blu and Park Inn hotels in Egypt and Tunisia regularly support local and regional charity organizations and help their respective communities socially as well as economically.

"Our commitment to the UNHCR humanitarian efforts in the region is a logical addition and development of our existing Responsible Business activities. We want to be an engaged global player with a sense for local needs, and meet this challenge as an opportunity in our corporate 'Yes I Can'-spirit", concluded Inge Huijbrechts.

About The Rezidor Hotel Group:
The Rezidor Hotel Group is one of the fastest growing hotel companies in the world. The group features a portfolio of more than 400 hotels in operation and under development with 88,800 rooms in over 60 countries including hotels in Sharm el Sheikh, hotels in Djerba, hotels in London, hotels in Dubai and hotels in Lisbon.

Rezidor operates the brands Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts, Park Inn by Radisson and Country Inns & Suites in Europe, Middle East and Africa, along with the Club Carlson loyalty programme for frequent hotel guests. Under a worldwide licence agreement with the iconic Italian fashion house Missoni, Rezidor also operates and develops the new lifestyle brand Hotel Missoni.

In November 2006, Rezidor was listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange. Carlson, a privately held, global hospitality and travel company, based in Minneapolis (USA), is the majority shareholder.

The Corporate office of the Rezidor Hotel Group is based in Brussels, Belgium.

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