Mantra Melbourne Airport takes off

Pictured: Prototype of a Mantra Melbourne Airport new-look guestroom.

Mantra Melbourne Airport is delighted to announce that it will undergo a multi-million dollar refurbishment, providing guests with superb facilities and a relaxing stay, with the new-look property set to be unveiled in 2024.

Accor to buy Mantra

AccorHotels signs an agreement to acquire Mantra Group Limited

AccorHotels today announced the signature of an agreement with Mantra Group Limited with the view to acquire all of the issued capital in Mantra by way of a scheme of arrangement to be approved by Mantra shareholders. Under the terms of the agreement AccorHotels would offer AUD3.96 in cash for each Mantra share including any potential special dividend.

Mantra's newest property is a former office tower in Canberra transformed into a 176-room hotel as part of the city’s vibrant urban renewal program.

Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AccorHotels said, “We are delighted to have come to an agreement to acquire the Mantra Group. This operation will underpin our long-term growth in the Asia Pacific region. Mantra’s portfolio would offer AccorHotels additional accommodation formats and a strong customer base to complement our successful hotel portfolio in Australia. We are confident that the transaction terms are attractive for shareholders of both groups”.

Chairman of Mantra, Peter Bush, said, “The AccorHotels offer represents an attractive proposition for Mantra and for our shareholders and the Board unanimously recommends AccorHotels’ proposal. AccorHotels is one of the world’s leading hotel operators and we trust that our business will be in good hands. Mantra’s strong expertise in apartments, in particular, and our presence in resort locations are very complementary to the AccorHotels operations in Australia and New Zealand. The combined business will be an important part of Australia’s strong and growing tourism market and its customers will benefit from the market leading expertise of both groups”.

Mantra is one of Australia’s largest hotel and resort marketers and operators with 127 properties and over 20,000 rooms in hotels, resorts and serviced apartments across Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia and Hawaii.

Properties in Mantra’s portfolio range from luxury accommodations and coastal resorts to serviced apartments in city and key leisure destinations, under three key brands: Peppers (28 properties), Mantra (75 properties) and BreakFree (24 properties). Mantra also manages core accommodation services including guest relations and reception areas, restaurants and bars, conference and function centres, pool and entertainment facilities and offices. Mantra has more than 5,500 employees.

AccorHotels and Mantra’s combined geographic footprint, together with enhanced distribution and systems, would form a favourable base from which AccorHotels can expand further in the region. Mantra’s expertise in apartment management, in particular, will offer a new opportunity for growth.

The Offer Price represents:

- A 23% premium to the last close price of AUD3.23 as at 6 October, 2017

- An implied EV / 2018e EBITDA (including transaction costs) multiple of 12.4x pre-synergies and high single-digit post-synergies.

The acquisition will be accretive to earnings per share in the first year of ownership pre-synergies. AccorHotels will pay AUD1.3 billion, equivalent to €0.9billion [1].

Besides, AccorHotels confirms it is in discussion with potential investors in relation to the sale of part of the Share Capital of AccorInvest. The Group aims at signing an agreement before year-end 2017. At this stage, the Group has no certainty to reach an agreement.

The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals, including from the Australian Foreign Investment Review Board, the Federal Court of Australia and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, as well as the approval of Mantra shareholders and other customary conditions. It is anticipated that subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals, the transaction should be completed by the end of the first quarter 2018.

[1] Assumes AUD1.49/€ as exchange rate

New Podilato Restaurant at Mantra MacArthur Hotel takes diners on a ride through the Mediterranean

Canberra’s craving for modern Mediterranean cuisine has been met with the opening of Podilato at the new Mantra MacArthur Hotel.

Podilato (which means bicycle in Greek) is the sister restaurant of the popular Bicicletta Italian restaurant at Peppers Gallery Hotel in Canberra.

Like Bicicletta, the restaurant offers a traditional-meets-modern-fusion in its menu.

Podilato Head Chef Sean Mawbey is well known for using fresh ingredients and uncomplicated cooking styles to temper the richness of tradition with the delicacy of modern gastronomy in some inspirational variations on classic Mediterranean dishes.

He has created a menu of Greek, Spanish and Italian cuisines that highlights the freshest seasonal ingredients with a great selection of tapas and dishes designed for sharing.

Featuring Hellenic favourites off the grill, accompanied by both Mediterranean and local wines, Podilato is a welcome addition to the list of Canberra’s best restaurants.

“My cooking philosophy is to accentuate the natural flavours and characteristics of the food, and to put a modern-Australian twist on traditional dishes,” said Sean.

“When preparing Mediterranean cuisine, I’m particularly fond of seafood but I also like to slow-cook food; it takes time and patience, but it reflects the Mediterranean way of life and is definitely worth the wait.”

Tapas dishes include dips, antipasto, paella balls, beetroot carpaccio, mini gyros, Persian lamb kofta, pork belly and crackle and main dishes include pollo alla diavola (grilled crispy flattened chicken with a chilli and lemon vinaigrette), ragu di agnello (braised lamb shoulder pasta), pumpkin and sage risotto, and more.

For groups (minimum two) there are also two banquet options - $45 per person for six plates or $55 per person for eight plates.

Podilato is open daily for breakfast from 6.30-10am on weekdays and 7-11am on weekends, offers a weekday deli option from 6.30am-3pm, a tapas menu (Monday to Saturday) from 3-10pm and dinner from 6-9.30pm (Monday to Saturday). For bookings, call 02 6112 9292.

The restaurant is located at the new Mantra MacArthur Hotel at 219 Northbourne Avenue, Turner ACT. A balcony also offers outdoor dining.

Mantra MacArthur Hotel offers a range of stylish and contemporary studio rooms as well as one and two bedroom suites.There is an opening special from $129* per night in a Studio Room including 1GB Wi-Fi daily, drink voucher on arrival and 12pm late check-out. To book, visit MantraHotels.com or call 1300 987 603.

*Conditions apply, subject to availability. Valid for sale and travel until 31 January, 2018.

Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport now open

The new Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport was officially opened today (19 July) by New South Wales Minister for Tourism and Major Events, the Honourable Adam Marshall MP, to help serve the 42 million passengers who travel through Sydney Airport each year, as well the thousands of visitors and staff who visit the airport precinct daily.

Mantra Group Chief Executive Officer Bob East said the new 136-room property provides much-needed hotel capacity to support the growth of aviation and tourism in the Sydney basin.

“Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport addresses the demand for contemporary airport accommodation with vibrant, dynamic facilities and a slick service culture,” said Mr East.

“We're thrilled to partner with Sydney Airport on this project, which is a win for the economic growth of Sydney.”

The eight-storey landmark building is the newest hotel at Sydney Airport and Sydney's third on-airport hotel.

Sydney Airport Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kerrie Mather said the opening of the new hotel so close to terminals would further improve the customer experience for airport visitors.

“We're delighted to celebrate the opening of this fantastic hotel, providing even more value and choice for our customers – whether they want a convenient place to stay close to the airport or an easy commute to the CBD,” said Ms Mather.

“Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport helps meet the need for additional hotel accommodation as we continue to experience strong passenger growth.”

NSW Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall congratulated Mantra Group on today's hotel opening and their commitment and contribution to the State's multi-billion dollar tourism economy.

“With record numbers flying into Sydney, new hotel openings such as the Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport provide visitors to NSW with greater choices in accommodation location, style and price point,” said Mr Marshall.

“New hotels in key precincts play a critical role in promoting a vibrant visitor economy while meeting the needs of growing visitor numbers to Sydney, attracting first-time and returning domestic and international travellers.

“I also know that this hotel will be warmly welcomed by people living in rural and regional areas who are often after a nearby quality hotel to stopover for a night before having to fly out again the next day.”

Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport is ideally suited for business and leisure travellers looking for conveniently-located accommodation close to the airport and terminals, while still only being 8km from the CBD.

The striking new-build hotel features 136 modern studio rooms, with many overlooking Sydney Airport's runways, an integrated reception and lobby with a 24/7 atmosphere and service, express check-out, internet kiosk and relaxed dining with a bold provincial menu of the finest regional NSW beef and sustainably-sourced local seafood, served with local draught beer, wines and handcrafted cocktails.

Mantra Hotel at Sydney Airport is located at 3 Ross Smith Avenue, just a short distance from Sydney Airport's T2 and T3 domestic terminals.

There is an opening special of $159* per night in a Studio King room including 1GB of internet access daily, a welcome drink voucher on arrival and room upgrade (subject to availability).

For bookings or further information, visit MantraHotels.com or call 1300 987 603.

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Mantra Group's New-Build Melbourne Hotel

#mantragroup

One of Greater Melbourne's fastest growing areas will benefit from a $70 million hotel development that will service the rapid increase of activity in Melbourne's booming northern suburbs.



Epping will be the site of the 214-room hotel that is being designed to capitalise on both the history of the northern suburbs and the unique attributes of Epping today.

Located right near Melbourne's new wholesale fruit, vegetable and cut flower market and The Northern Hospital, construction is due to start in the latter part of 2017 with opening scheduled for mid-2019.

The hotel is being developed by Too Build and will be operated by Mantra Group.

Operating as Mantra Epping Hotel, it will feature both hotel rooms and apartments, a café/restaurant, brewhouse, conference and meeting facilities, gymnasium, and an open car park containing 143 marked bays and secure bicycle storage.

Occupying a prime corner position at 250 Cooper Street within the prestigious Northpoint Enterprise Park at Epping, Melbourne's fastest growing expansion corridor just 18km north of the CBD, the four-star, two-wing hotel has been designed by leading architect Peddle Thorp and Bruce Henderson Interiors.

One of Australia's largest construction companies, Hacer Group, has been engaged to complete the project build, creating an expected 300 construction jobs.

Mantra Group Chief Executive Officer Bob East said the Group is thrilled to operate this new-build hotel under a hotel management agreement.

“This acquisition comes at an opportune time in the Australian hotel market, with hotels in Melbourne and surrounds experiencing substantial uplift in demand in recent years,” said Mr East.

“This strong performance is set to continue with further domestic and international visitation uplift forecasted for the greater Melbourne market.

“Mantra Epping Hotel will complement our extensive Melbourne portfolio and reaffirms our strategy of securing desirable new properties in Australian capital city metropolitan markets.

“With its strong and varied accommodation demand drivers, we're confident this hotel will provide a market-leading hotel offering, well positioned to become the region's premier corporate, meetings and leisure hotel.”

Too Build Chief Executive Officer Ian Wilson said the project is perfectly timed to accommodate the next stage of growth for Epping.

“What's exciting to me is to create something I know the local community – traders and residents alike – will really want to spend time in whether they have guests staying at the hotel or not. Mantra Epping Hotel will become a proud part of the local community and a favourite meeting spot,” said Mr Wilson.

“Mantra Epping Hotel is surrounded by an array of retail shops, showrooms, business and industrial premises, plus The Northern Hospital and the newly relocated Melbourne Market are both situated nearby, which will all provide important business opportunities for the property.”

Epping is located within the City of Whittlesea, one of the largest municipalities in metropolitan Melbourne covering an area of approximately 489 square kilometres.

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New Mantra Hotels masterbrand

Leading hotel and resort operator, Mantra Group, has united the Group's 128 properties across Australia, New Zealand, Bali and Hawaii, consolidating its multi-branded portfolio into a new single consumer brand, known simply as Mantra Hotels.

The new Mantra Hotels masterbrand represents the Group's three brands - Peppers, which offers distinctive stays in outstanding settings; Mantra, which combines convenient locations with stylish comfort; and BreakFree, renowned for providing a relaxed ambience at family-friendly prices - with all properties now featured on one all-inclusive website, MantraHotels.com, offering an overarching consumer brand website for all Mantra Group properties for the first time.

Showcasing the company's entire portfolio and suite of experiences, the new dotcom website conveniently provides curious connected travellers with the experiences they seek in one location and is reflective of the company's ongoing expansion strategy into new international markets.

Mantra Group Chief Operating Officer Tomas Johnsson said the Group is embracing its future with a completely reimagined brand identity that showcases the Group's exceptional offerings and appeal as an integral part of contemporary travellers' aspirations.

"Our new Mantra Hotels masterbrand reflects our intent to encourage guests to live life outside the square and reaffirms our commitment to facilitating genuine and trusted experiences in a meaningful way," said Mr Johnsson.

"We do this by providing spaces with options, where guests can tailor things to their liking within four walls… because only then can they reconnect with what's important to them and discover their own kind of wonderful beyond those walls."

As part of the rebranding, the Group has launched a new Mantra Hotels logo emphasising the brand's holistic, organic approach to servicing the needs of today's travellers, which will be used across all consumer communications channels.



McCann Queensland, part of McCann Worldgroup - the world's largest agency network, developed the innovative Mantra Hotels masterbrand launch campaign, titled 'My Kind of Wonderful' and featuring four stories inspired by real-life events, which Mr Johnsson said was a bold move, amplifying the brand's belief that the best travel experience begins with a space to make your own.

The campaign includes television, social and video advertising, a new brand look and logo, and enhanced social media platforms.

All travel agent log-ins, access to BizBeds and Mantra Group's affiliate program have transferred over to MantraHotels.com.

The Group's newly launched and revitalised loyalty program, Mantra+, is also conveniently located on the new website for guests to receive more offers, more value, and more ways to discover their kind of wonderful.


For more information, visit MantraHotels.com

Mantra Group Launches World's First #PokemonGo Friendly Hotels

#pokemongo




Today Mantra Group launched the world's first Pokemon Go-friendly hotels in Sydney and Melbourne, encouraging fans to 'Pokestop By Our Bar' with free Pokemon Go Lures to increase their chances of catching one of the virtual pocket monsters.

Gamers can Pokestop by Mantra 2 Bond Street in Sydney from 3pm every Friday during July to receive a free bowl of fries with any drink purchase.

Melburnian Pokemon Go catchers can also cash in on happy hour drinks at Mantra on Little Bourke, Melbourne from 3pm every Friday during July.

Since Pokemon Go - a game based on augmented reality where players use their smartphone camera to walk around the street finding and catching Pokemon - launched just one week ago, it already has more daily active users than Twitter and, according to Similarweb, one in five Australian Android users have the game installed on their device.

Mantra Group Executive Director Marketing and Digital Matt Granfield said the free Pokemon Go Lures will encourage the spawning of valuable in-game creatures at two of the Group's tech savvy city properties.

“Our mantra is 'knowing what matters' to people, and it's pretty clear from the popularity of the game that playing Pokemon Go matters to millions of people all over the globe,” Matt said.

“We're always keen to find new and innovative ways of making our hotels great places to stay, so helping our guests catch a few extra Pokemon during their stay was a no-brainer.”

Pokemon have also invaded the property pages of Mantra 2 Bond Street, Sydney (click here to view) and Mantra on Little Bourke, Melbourne (click here to view).

Visit www.mantra.com.au

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Peppers Arrives in Melbourne CBD

Peppers Docklands has opened its doors this week, heralding the arrival of the Peppers name in the MelbourneCBD. The opening reflects the continued expansion and evolution of one of Australia’s most trusted hotel brands, which today delivers contemporary, stylish accommodation for leisure and business travellers alike.

“Peppers Docklands is an unparalleled offering within the Docklands precinct, and – in response to demand from our loyal guests - represents a continuation of Mantra Group’s strategic direction to grow the Peppers brand inCBD locations.” said Kent Davidson, Executive Director – Sales, Marketing & Distribution.

The only 5-star hotel within the Dockland’s precinct, the hotel features direct access to the Etihad Stadium concourse. General Manager, Jeremy Nordkamp, believes this is what will differentiate Peppers Docklands from other CBD located properties.

“Peppers Docklands is located right on the concourse, giving our guests convenient access to the wide range of events staged at Etihad stadium throughout the year,” he said.

Named the number one new hotel opening for 2016 by Traveller.com.au, the five star, 87-room hotel is part of Capital Alliance Investment Group’s $100 million M Docklands development. The contemporary accommodation is defined by bespoke bathrooms and cutting edge interior design, with hotel facilities including the stylish MOMAMI restaurant and bar, pool, gym, 24-hour reception and concierge, plus a trendy retail and eatery enclave at ground level.

Redefining the rich heritage of the brand, Peppers Docklands joins the growing portfolio of designer Peppers branded city hotels, which includes properties in Adelaide, Canberra, and the Gold Coast. Elsewhere, construction is well progressed on Peppers Kings Square (due to open in Perth in August 2016) and plans are afoot for other Peppers city hotels in Brisbane and Sydney.

Capital City Growth for Mantra - new Canberra hotel for 2016

Mantra Group has secured the leasehold for a new Mantra branded full-service hotel in Canberra city to open late 2016.

An existing office tower, located on the corner of Northbourne and McCarthur Avenues in the inner city suburb of Turner, will be converted into a 176 room hotel, as part of a new master planned mixed-use precinct.  The development is part of the urban renewal of Canberra's key inner city suburbs by delivering an attractive mix of residential, retail and commercial uses.

The property will be known as Mantra Canberra Hotel and will offer a mix of 136 hotel rooms and 40 suites across eight accommodation levels. Careful consideration has been given to creating flexibility in bedroom configuration by cleverly using interconnecting functionality between suites and hotel rooms to allow for convenient two bedroom suite room types.

"The key appeal of this opportunity was a gain a high quality new foothold in Canberra where we currently only operate 300 rooms across three hotels.  The Capital benefits from a growing annual events calendar and continues to show improved performance across both the leisure and corporate travel market with room for a quality, well located hotel such as Mantra Canberra," said Michael Moret-Lalli, Mantra Group Director of Acquisitions.

The hotel facilities will include a restaurant and bar, conference rooms, gym, and car parking.

Mantra Group currently has a Peppers, Mantra and BreakFree hotel in Canberra which offer luxury, mid-range and economy hotel options.

Top Tips To Get The Best Out Of Your Hervey Bay Whale Watching Experience

Ever wondered why Hervey Bay is touted as the best location for whale watching in Australia?  With the season fast approaching, and having accommodated thousands of whale watchers over the years, Mantra Hervey Bay andBreakFree Great Sandy Straits have the following fast facts, top tips and great accommodation packages for an unforgettable whale watching experience.

1. It's all about timing

During the months of August, September and October there is a 100% guarantee of a whale sighting in Hervey Bay!  Why is that?  After giving birth in the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef in north Queensland the whales stop and rest in the calm surroundings of Hervey Bay between August and October with their young calves, rejuvenating themselves for the long journey south to their home in the Antarctic.  There is no difference between the morning or afternoon whale watching cruises as there is no rhyme or reason to the whales antics and activity at any particular time.  They basically do what they want when they want! 

2. It's a family affair 

Pods of mothers and calves are often escorted by an adult male during their time in Hervey Bay offering a great chance to see all the generations at play.  Whales that find their way to Hervey Bay can include minkes, brydes, false killer and killer whales, melonhead whales, sperm whales and of course the mighty humpbacks, which can grow to over between 15 and 25 metres in length. Some species are spotted more than others – the false killer and melonhead whales, for example, are only seen once every few years.  If you're lucky, Migaloo the White Whale might make an appearance – he is elusive, however, and even has a website dedicated to logging sightings of him – www.migaloo.com.au

3. Why do they leave home?

The cold waters of the Antarctic, where the whales call home, are great for the whale's food source, but too harsh for newborn calves which have no protective blubber layer. So humpbacks mate and give birth in warmer waters in the tropical north.  Their rest time in Hervey Bay on the way back home could even be considered a first family holiday!

4. Mother of the Year

How's this for dedication?  Females carry their young for 11 to 12 months, and at birth, calves are about 4-5 metres long and weigh more than one tonne! A mother feeds her calf milk with an unusually high fat content (35% compared with 2% for human milk) with hundreds of litres consumed daily.  Calves are nursed until they are one year old and about 8 metres long.

5. Muggings are a good thing!

'Muggings' is the term used when whales swim close to the boat to get a better look at who's on deck.  That's right, they are just as inquisitive as we are – if not more!  So if you hear about tourists being mugged by whales, it's a good thing and a great time to be on the water.

6. Don't just watch – swim!

Been whale watching before and ready for a new adventure?  A number of operators are now offering 'swim with the whales' experiences for an up close and personal view of these majestic beasts of the sea.  Boats have to keep a distance of 100m from the whales, but can now to drop swimmers in to the water to carefully approach and swim with the whales.

Mantra Hervey Bay is the most convenient accommodation option in the area.  Located on the esplanade overlooking the Urangan boat harbour, it is the only absolute marina front property near cruise departure points.

Also located close to the harbour, BreakFree Great Sandy Straits offers absolute beach front access and uninterrupted views of the bay and marina from sunrise to sunset.

Both Mantra and BreakFree are offering great packages for the 2015 whale watching season that include 10% discount on whale watching tours, 10% off breakfast including a free coffee when purchased at Bistro Aubergine, and 10% discount off food when dining at Cafe Balaena or Harvey's Bar and Bistro for dinner.

Rates at Mantra Hervey Bay start from $130* per night in a Hotel Room; from $165* in a 1 Bedroom Spa Suite; or from $215* per night in a 2 Bedroom Spa Suite.  Also includes a complimentary bottle of wine on arrival and late check out to 11am. Visit www.mantra.com.au/special-offers/hervey-bay for further details and bookings.

Rates at BreakFree Great Sandy Straits start from $125* per night in a 1 Bedroom Apartment; or $175* per night in a 2 Bedroom Apartment.  Visitwww.breakfree.com.au/special-offers/fraser-coast for further details and bookings.

* Valid Sun-Thurs, minimum 2 night stay.  Valid for sale until 18 September 2015 and for travel from 1 July to 18 September 2015.

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Mantra Group Expands CBD Hotel Network in Adelaide and Melbourne

Expansion of their Australian CBD portfolio continues for Mantra Group, today announcing the addition of two hotels in Adelaide and Melbourne.

CEO Bob East said this was indicative of Mantra Group's focus on growing its CBD network across its three brands – Peppers, Mantra and BreakFree:

“We have made substantial additions to our CBD network with eight hotels added over the last 12 months in Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra, Hobart and Launceston and I am pleased to announce these new additions in Adelaide and Melbourne in what has been a solid year of growth for Mantra Group.”

The Group will manage the 202 room Adelaide hotel under the up-market Peppers brand. The Peppers Adelaide Hotel will officially launch on 1 September 2015. It will be the first Peppers property in Adelaide and join two Mantra and two BreakFree hotels to bring the total number of Mantra Group hotels to five in Adelaide CBD.

The property is a well-established, leading 5 star CBD hotel, located within walking distance of the Adelaide Convention Centre, Casino, Rundle Mall, the cultural boulevard of North Terrace, and the city's restaurant precinct. Centrally located on Waymouth Street, it offers 202 stylishly appointed hotel rooms; two food and beverage outlets, Straits Cafe and Lounge 55; a heated indoor lap pool, spa, sauna, and fitness centre. For meetings, events and private functions the 120 square metre conference room caters for up to 150 guests (cocktail) and can be divided into two smaller rooms.

Mantra Group will work with Hotel Invest Pty Ltd to upgrade the property.

Peppers Adelaide Hotel is the latest example of the evolution of the brand in CBD locations. It will join Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra and Peppers Seaport Launceston in the existing portfolio, with new build Peppers properties set for completion in Docklands Melbourne and Kings Square Perth in 2016.

The Group is also set to offer a quality affordable accommodation option in the heart of Melbourne CBD with the management of Darling Towers at 233 Collins Street. The property will rebrand as BreakFree on Collins on 26 June 2015 and undergo a refurbishment program over the coming months.

The hotel offers 193 one and two bedroom apartments in a prime location near the soon to be relaunched St Collins Lane (formerly Australia on Collins shopping centre); with Her Majesty's Theatre, Regent Theatre and Federation Square all within close proximity.

BreakFree on Collins will join a network of six CBD BreakFree properties across Australia, including BreakFree Bell City in the greater Melbourne suburb of Preston. It will bring the number of Mantra and BreakFree properties in Melbourne to twelve.

Mantra Group is a leading manager and marketer of hotels and resorts in Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia and operates three well-known and trusted brands – Peppers, Mantra and BreakFree. With 119 properties and over 13,000 rooms under management, Mantra Group is the second largest accommodation operator in Australia. The Group is positioned to offer both leisure and business style accommodation ranging from full service city hotels and self-contained apartments to luxury resorts and retreats:www.mantragroup.com.au; www.peppers.com.au; www.mantra.com.au; www.breakfree.com.au. 

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Mantra Adds New Property in Bali

Mantra Group has announced it has secured a hotel management agreement for a 261-room resort on the Nusa Dua Peninsular, Bali to be known as Mantra Sakala Resort and Beach Club, Bali.

Mantra Sakala - Beach Pool

The resort opened in 2013 and occupies a 2.4 hectare site at Tanjung Benoa on the Nusa Dua Peninsula, a region popular with Australian and European travellers seeking a luxurious experience in a beachside location.

The resort will be the second hotel for the Group in Bali, joining Peppers Sentosa Seminyak which was added to the network in 2014.

Mantra Group CEO, Bob East, said he was pleased to add a high quality resort to the Group's Indonesian portfolio:

“We have sought out high quality properties to operate under management agreements in this region and Mantra Sakala Resort and Beach Club, Bali, is a great endorsement for the Mantra brand.

Expansion in Indonesia is certainly one of our strategies but we have focused on quality rather than quantity and will continue with this approach on future development opportunities.”

 Mantra Sakala - Sakala Deluxe Suite Masterbedroom

Offering 247 suites and 14 private one and two bedroom pool villas. Each residence is appointed with a boutique kitchenette and microwave for light snacks and refreshments as well as an Illy coffee machine and mini wine refrigerator.

Resort facilities include three swimming pools, a wellness spa, health club and lagoon bar, restaurants, beach club, large conference facilities and kids club.

Mantra Sakala Resort and Beach Club, Bali, is a 10-minute drive from Bali Collection shopping centre and a 30-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport and Kuta Beach.

Dining is a memorable experience at the on-site Sakala Bali Restaurant, perched on the picturesque sandscape of Tanjung Benoa beach, overlooking the Indian Ocean. Offering superb French-style cuisine, the restaurant is regularly rated Number 1 out of 40 restaurants located in Tanjung Benoa on TripAdvisor.

A stylish Beach Club provides guests, as well as day visitors, with direct access to one of Bali's most active beachfronts with an extensive selection of water sports including snorkelling, diving, parasailing, kayaking and boating. The Beach Club features a variety of international bites and a creative mix of contemporary cocktails and entertainment.

The Beach Club also welcomes wedding celebrations with a host of venues to choose from including the stunning beachfront or a candlelit poolside. An onsite event planning team will work to customise culinary preferences as well as to create a personalized itinerary of activities throughout the event.

An on-site day spa is equipped with eight beautifully appointed treatment suites with an array of popular and signature treatments, creating an ideal space for personalised health and wellness getaways.

For events, Mantra Sakala provides 6,000 square feet of flexible meeting space catering for up to 650 people, theatre style. All rooms feature modern audio-visual equipment, soundproof walls, Internet access and all the amenities and services needed for productive and stress-free event. A business centre for maximum efficiency completes the space.

Visit http://www.mantra.com.au/indonesia/bali/nusa-dua/accommodation/mantra-sakala-resort-and-beach-club// for further details.

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Mantra Bell City Melbourne Conference Offering

Mantra Group has added its largest hotel to their 116 strong network, with the rebranding of the 844-room Bell City in Preston, Melbourne. The Group now manages the dual hotel towers - now known as Mantra Bell City (383 rooms) and BreakFree Bell City (461 rooms) - which form part of a large-scale mixed-used development.



Recognised as the leading hotel and events precinct in Melbourne's north, Bell City is located just 9 kilometres from Melbourne's CBD. The property boasts a large range of accommodation options, extensive food and beverage outlets, first class recreational facilities and a choice of 15 conference spaces, including a vast ballroom catering for up to 500 guests. As a mixed-use development, Bell City is also home to numerous retail and commercial tenancies, serviced offices, and a 600 space car park.

“This hotel is a game changer for Mantra Group in terms of conferencing offerings – its sheer capacity teamed with its exceptional level of quality has really put us on the map in Greater Melbourne,” said Mantra Group's Director of MICE, Paul Wilson.

A special Mantra Bell City conference package is on offer to celebrate the launch:

Meet from $50* per person and stay from $139* per room per night, plus, book an event by 30 April and hold before 20 December 2015 for a complimentary Day Delegate lunch*; complimentary Wi-Fi and parking for just $4 per day.

For conference and event enquiries contact alexandra.lohe@mantra.com.au. Further information available at www.mantra.com.au/bell-city.

The consistently high-performing greater Melbourne hotel market, combined with Bell City's unique market drivers, is complemented by Mantra's existing portfolio of eight Melbourne hotels and airport precinct hotel.

Visit Mantra Group at stand #C400.

*Conditions apply: The upgrade includes 2 hot dishes to the Delegate Package lunch; the $50 per day is based on a Half Day package; Minimum 20 people – maximum 500 people.

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Mantra Group Forms TripAdvisor Instant Booking Partnership

Mantra Group today announced a partnership with TripAdvisor, the world's largest travel site, to add its hotel inventory to the TripAdvisor instant booking platform. This new platform, which is currently available to U.S. travellers, allows users to conveniently make a hotel booking through TripAdvisor's hotel and online travel agency partners without leaving the TripAdvisor site experience. Once the integration is complete later this year, U.S. consumers on TripAdvisor will be able to book Mantra Group properties directly.

Mantra on Kent, Sydney

TripAdvisor launched its instant booking platform in June 2014 to remove friction from the booking process. The platform not only provides a more efficient hotel booking experience for travellers, but also benefits partners like Mantra Group with the potential for more bookings and improved downstream conversion.

“By being part of the instant booking platform, Mantra Group hotels and resorts now have the opportunity to reach U.S. consumers despite us not having any hotel presence in North America. It will lift our profile as one of the largest hotel operators in Australia and New Zealand for U.S. travellers considering a holiday in this region,” said Luke Moran, Group Director of Revenue & Distribution.

Throughout the booking process, TripAdvisor reminds travellers that they are booking with its instant booking partners. TripAdvisor provides travellers with links and numbers to call to access partners' customer service resources and these hotels will manage customer support inquiries.

“We're excited to partner with Mantra Group on our new instant booking platform,” said Robin Ingle, senior vice president, global sales, TripAdvisor. “Our partnership will help us increase instant booking inventory and offer competitive pricing to our community of millions of travellers.”

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Peppers Salt Resort & Spa Kingscliff Are Offering Three, Weekend Yoga Retreats

Yoga Retreats at Peppers Salt Resort to Kick Start Your 2015 Health and Wellness Goals

Peppers Salt Resort & Spa has announced a schedule for weekend yoga retreats for 2015, offering guests three unique opportunities to relax with a rejuvenating weekend of self discovery for the health conscious in the picturesque surrounds of seaside Kingscliff.

Yoga retreats have been designed for beginners through to experienced practitioners and combine dynamic yoga, wholesome cuisine and a day spa experience at the acclaimed The Spa at Salt.

 Peppers Salt Resort & Spa Pool

Hosted by YOGA TV host, Kris McIntyre, the weekend will vary to suit the changing needs of the seasons according to Ryogo - a form of yoga therapy combining traditional Indian Hatha poses with the meridian based healing arts of China and Japan.

Peppers Salt Yoga

The 2015 Yoga Program includes:

6 - 8 March - Women's Health Retreat: Focusing on digestion, weight loss, improving energy levels and kicking sugar cravings.

8 - 10 May - Mother and Daughter Retreat (Mother's Day weekend): Focusing on bladder strength, lower back and core strength and stress release.

11 - 13 September - Spring Cleanse Retreat: Focusing on improving flexibility, eyesight and joint problems (hips, knees, shoulders).

Priced from $599* per person twin share, the all-inclusive escape includes two nights' accommodation, full buffet breakfast daily, five yoga classes, a yoga mat, a 50 minute spa treatment at The Spa at Salt, wholesome meals including dinner on Friday as well as lunch and dinner on Saturday prepared by Peppers Salt Resort & Spa's onsite restaurant Season, full use of resort leisure facilities, unlimited in-room movies and more.

Yoga packages without accommodation start from $432* per person and include five yoga classes, a yoga mat, a treatment at The Spa at Salt, two dinners and one lunch.

Peppers Salt Reosrt & Spa offers the ultimate beach holiday escape, located just 20 minutes south of Gold Coast Airport and 30 minutes drive from Byron Bay. Kingscliff Beach and Salt Beach are just a stroll away or the resort and lagoon style pools offer the perfect spot to the laze the days away.

For bookings call Peppers on (02) 6674 7777 or emailsalt@peppers.com.au

*Conditions apply. Subject to availability.

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Mantra Group to Manage BreakFree on Cashel Street Christchurch

The continuing renaissance of Christchurch is set for further rejuvenation with Mantra Group announcing it will manage the fully reconstructed 263 room hotel located at 165 Cashel Street when it reopens in April 2015 as the BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch.



The hotel, formerly the All Seasons, closed after the February 2011 earthquakes, was a highly successful concept and the largest hotel in the South Island. Due to its prime central city location and contemporary urban design, the property quickly established itself as one of Christchurch's leading hotels, on the strength of robust demand from business, leisure and group sources.

The property was originally constructed in 1987 as a commercial office building and two decades later was retrofitted to become Hotel So – New Zealand's first blend of traditional and pod style accommodation designed for the discerning modern day traveller with a budget in mind.

An extensive refurbishment and redesign of the hotel has been underway since new owners – Auckland based Russell Property Group and an investment partner – purchased the property in January 2014. This includes an expanded ground floor café/restaurant and the inclusion of a number of high quality traditional hotel rooms located on the top floor executive level.

Russell Property Group Managing Director Brett Russell said it was pleasing to be part of the Christchurch resurgence:

“A total investment of over $30m has been committed to the project, which will also see the hotel reach a Grade A seismic rating, incorporate a new exterior façade and provide an active and expanded ground floor opening onto Cashel Street. This will undoubtedly revive what arguably the City's most popular hotel by offering modern and vibrant, yet a highly affordable accommodation for the tech-savvy business and leisure traveller.

Christchurch & Canterbury CEO Tim Hunter said that with the city centre revival ramping visitors are returning to see the new inner city take shape:

“With the $40 billion rebuild gathering momentum and 90% of the pre- earthquake tourism activities back in operation the city is being enjoyed by many more visitors this summer. More than 35 new restaurant, bars and cafes have opened in the inner city in the past six months, fantastic new architecture is emerging and Christchurch is again becoming a focal point for tourism in the South Island.”

BreakFree on Cashel is strategically and centrally located on Cashel Street to capture a large and diverse range of corporate and leisure business. The hotel is in close proximity to the revitalised Cashel Mall and in the vicinity of many new and exciting projects currently underway; the Justice Precinct; the Central Bus Interchange; the new sports stadium and the Convention Centre.

CEO Mantra Group CEO Bob East noted the importance of the development both to the city of Christchurch and to Mantra Group's New Zealand network:

“Christchurch is fast returning to the vibrant tourism and business precinct for which it has been known. We are pleased to have a significant presence in the city's resurgence by filling a gap in the accommodation market with the 263 room BreakFree on Cashel; the largest 3-4 star hotel in Christchurch,” he said.

The remodelled hotel consists of 263 stylish hotel rooms; a contemporary and funky interactive Café/Restaurant & Bar; Breakfast Room, Guest Lounge; a conference room catering for up to 80 people and two boardroom style meeting spaces with capacity for 20 people; 24 hour reception; internet kiosk; guest laundry and onsite parking.

The redevelopment incorporates some of the latest smart technology throughout the hotel recognising the importance of technology for discerning travellers. These include high-definition and interactive digital entertainment systems and advanced communication and information capabilities. Plans for self check-in kiosks to be implemented late 2016 will further provide guests with capabilities rarely experienced at such affordable levels.

Dean Humphries, National Director of Hotels for Colliers International was responsible for sourcing and negotiating the management agreement on behalf of the owners.

Mantra Group also manages the award-winning Peppers Clearwater Resort situated 7 kilometres from the centre of Christchurch. BreakFree on Cashel will bring the total number of Mantra Group hotels in New Zealand to 11 but this is the very first traditional hotel concept under the BreakFree brand. The Group also manages BreakFree on the Point and BreakFree The Waterfront both in Queenstown as serviced apartment properties.

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Peppers Guest House 30 Years Young

Did you know that 1984 was the year that Advance Australia Fair was officially proclaimed as the Australian national anthem; the one dollar coin was introduced; a 115g jar of Vegemite was the first product to be electronically scanned at supermarket checkout; and Paul Hogan first invited the world to ‘throw another shrimp on the barbie’?

It was also the year that Peppers Guest House opened in the Hunter Valley, signifying the start of one of Australia’s most endearing hotel brands, with an opening special of $100 bed and breakfast per night.

Peppers

To celebrate their 30 year milestone, Peppers are going back to 1984 and offering a special ‘Sunday Sojourn’ on their anniversary Sunday, 26 October with the $100 bed and breakfast rate for the night. Guests are also invited to join in for a summer BBQ on the verandah, reminiscent of the early days when locals, particularly during vintage season, gathered to share wine and stories after a long day amongst the vines.

“We want to capture the casual and welcoming atmosphere that Peppers Guest House has long been known for as we celebrate 30 years of operation,” said General Manager, Brian Rooney.

“Guests are invited to bring along a bottle of wine to share –with most of them out wine tasting for the day I’m sure there will be plenty to choose from – and the team from the Chez Pok kitchen will ensure it’s a gourmet affair.”

Peppers Guest House won a swag of tourism awards throughout the 1980s and 90s including a permanent place in the Hunter Tourism Hall of Fame. Its restaurant, Chez Pok, French for ‘at the house of Pokolbin’, is one of the Hunter Valley’s most awarded restaurants and continues to serve a fusion of French and contemporary Australian cuisine incorporating the best local produce.

For bookings contact Peppers Guest House on 02 4993 8999. For further information visit www.peppers.com.au/guesthouse

It is fitting that in its 30th year Peppers now numbers 30 hotels in its network across Australia and New Zealand. The most recent addition was Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra in July 2014 to become Peppers’ first CBD capital city hotel, signaling the evolution of the brand – from small boutique retreats, to large scale coastal resorts and now chic metropolitan hotels.

Mantra Group's Green Conferencing Solution Sprouts New Life

Proving that the old adage - 'from little things, big things grow' - is indeed correct, Mantra Group's Green Conferencing solution is sprouting some new life with 10 hotels in the Group now part of the program launched in March 2014 at Mantra Mooloolaba Beach.

With Planet Ark's National Tree Day taking place on 27 July it is timely to announce the growth of this initiative which pledges that a tree is planted for every delegate that attends a Green conference.  Since the program was piloted at Mantra Mooloolaba Beach a total of 433 trees have been planted as a result of the 10 events held at the property.

The program is operated in conjunction with Carbon Neutral, a carbon solutions provider and reforestation offset developer.  Trees are currently planted in Western Australia in strict 'planting seasons', with plans to commence plantings along the Eastern seaboard next year.

The additional hotels include Mantra Group's hero conferencing properties,Peppers Salt Resort & Spa and Mantra on Salt Beach in Kingscliff; Mantra Legends on the Gold Coast; Mantra Lorne in Victoria; Mantra on Russell Melbourne;  Peppers Craigieburn and Peppers Manor House in the NSW Southern Highlands; Peppers Beach Club & Spa Palm Cove and BreakFree Grand Pacific Caloundra.

Mantra Group Director of MICE, Paul Wilson, said he was pleased to see the uptake of the program and expects more hotels to come on board over the next six months:

“When we piloted the Green Conferencing solution at Mooloolaba we expected some positive results but were pleasantly surprised by the uptake by conference organisers as well as the feedback received about the initiative 

“Our hotels have also got behind this program and it's great to be able to offer this at 10 of our hero conference

properties for both large scales conferences and small meetings requirements.”

Mantra's eco-friendly conference package also delivers 100 per cent paper-free event organisation, locally sourced produce and Ethical Tea Partnership products, recyclable stationery, a recycle bin for conference use, fresh fruit bowl during breaks, re-usable natural bamboo tote bag and complimentary packet of seed sticks for each delegate, and a personalised company Carbon Neutral Planting Certificate.  Delegate packages vary and start from $60* per person 

All the standard conference offerings including morning and afternoon tea, a buffet lunch and presenter Wi-Fi and A.  Venue hire is free for groups of 25 delegates or more. 

Carbon Neutral's Director of Business Development, Kent Broad, said:  “I am very excited by such a great environmental initiative by Mantra Group, because without this sort of commitment from the community, we could not continue to plant as many trees as we want to in re-vegetating over-cleared and degraded areas throughout the Australian agricultural areas.” 

Planted trees help prevent the spread of deserts and reduce soil erosion, improve soil quality by reducing salinity, create important wind breaks and at the same time, actively support local and indigenous employment through seed collection, planting and monitoring.

For conference enquiries contact conference@mantragroup.com.au. Further information visit www.peppers.com.au; www.mantra.com.au andwww.breakfree.com.au

Australia's Peppers Retreats & Resorts Open First Hotel In Asia

 

 
Renowned throughout Australia and New Zealand for their captivating locations and world-class cuisine, Peppers Retreats & Resorts have now added Bali to the portfolio with the rebranding of the former Sentosa Seminyak all-villa luxury resort.

Now known as Peppers Sentosa Seminyak, the resort fits all the criteria desired to represent the Peppers brand; from its sleek architectural design to the personalised service and incomparable location within the heart of Seminyak, to its commitment to delivering the best culinary and wellness venue on the island.

Peppers Sentosa Seminyak comprises 49 three, four and five bedroom luxury villas (177 rooms in total) each with private swimming pools set amidst lush tropical gardens and lotus ponds with a large poolside Bale for relaxation and massages. Peppers plan to launch a further eight, one- and two-bedroom villas in the second half of 2014 and refresh existing villas to remain consistent with Peppers brand standards.

"Travellers from Australia and New Zealand, familiar with the Peppers brand at home, will now be able to have the Peppers experience in one of our most popular overseas destinations," said Bob East, CEO of Mantra Group, who manage the Peppers brand.

"The emerging middle class in Indonesia is also a growing market and we are confident the Peppers style and service will resonate with them."

Peppers celebrates 30 years of operation this year and has established a reputation with discerning travelers who recognise Peppers for its unique collection of romantic lodges, manor-style retreats and coastal resorts. Located in Australia's verdant food and wine regions, by some of the world's best beaches or overlooking New Zealand's pristine lakes, the addition of Peppers Sentosa Seminyak makes an exciting new addition with its sophisticated ambience and cutting-edge look.

"It is an exciting era for Peppers to launch the first hotel in Asia in its 30th year and we look forward to increasing our network in the region."

Peppers Sentosa Seminyak is offering an opening special from USD$699* per night in a three bedroom Royal Pool Villa or from USD$919* per night in a 4 bedroom Presidential Pool Villa including a welcome drink, fruit basket, sumptuous daily breakfast and complimentary Wi-Fi. The offer is valid for booking until 30 June and valid for travel until 23 December 2014. Visit www.peppers.com.au/seminyak for bookings and further details.

Epicurean Delights: The resort's signature restaurant, Salt tapas & bar Bali by celebrated Australian chef Luke Mangan, is in perfect tune with the brand's reputation as an oasis for foodies and gourmands. Featuring fresh, season-driven cuisine that is upscale, yet never pretentious, Salt tapas & bar offers succulent small-plate dishes and desserts that showcase locally caught seafood sourced daily from Jimbaran Bay, top quality Australian meats, organically grown produce raised in the cool hillsides north of Ubud, and an international cellar featuring new and old-world wines.

First time Bali travelers as well as island aficionados will be happy to hear that a calendar of events in the legendary Seminyak style are planned throughout the year ensuring Peppers Sentosa Seminyak is the place to be for all social occasions.

SPA at Sentosa: Blessed with a sophisticated and welcoming interior design concept and an established core of expertly trained Balinese therapists, the SPA at Sentosa is a multi-faceted spa, beauty and wellness destination. The thoughtfully conceptualized program features both opulent European and 100% botanical spa product lines. Guests may choose from indulgent signature treatments, multi-day wellness escape packages, cutting-edge medical spa procedures and an innovative juicing program that promotes overall well being from the inside out.

Peppers is Mantra Group's deluxe hotel brand and includes a collection of 29 boutique retreats and resorts across Australia and New Zealand. Peppers Sentosa Seminyak is the first Peppers property to open in Indonesia and the second for Mantra Group following the opening of the brand new Mantra Nusa Dua in 2012.

www.peppers.com.au