Mayfield Garden Oberon relaunch with major outdoor concert

Big Australian bands cultivate new entertainment program at Australia's biggest private open garden, Mayfield

The majestic Mayfield garden at Oberon will become a seductive backdrop to a major outdoor Autumnfest concert featuring James Reyne on 30 April 2017 as the gates open to the public every day of the year for the first time.

Reyne will perform within the 64-hectare European-inspired garden alongside Boom Crash Opera, Matt Boylan Smith and Smith & Jones, as the finale to the music, wine, food & craft beer festival, on now.

The celebration of the flamboyant autumnal colours at Mayfield is part of a dynamic annual entertainment program just released and includes luxe food events, yoga retreats (5-7 May), glamorous public gatherings, foraging, corporate retreats, weddings, major outdoor performances, and food and garden workshops.

The performances will take place in front of the spectacular Obelisk and Pond, and visitors can enjoy the concert from within the Alle of London Plain Trees with a hand selected range of the finest local food and beverage from the Central West. Floating food options include Smoking Brothers catering, Al Dente street food from Bathurst, the Moubar Vintage 1950s bar and coffee caravan, Tommy's Mexican food, and Two Heads Brewery.

Mayfield CEO Hamish Keith, formerly an internationally and nationally award-winning event producer, has designed a diverse catalogue of activities taking the family-owned property from a garden to marvel, to a new level of visitor experiences.

"Mayfield is an incredibly versatile venue with the gardens as the backdrop for events including specialist themed workshops in foraging, cooking, art and yoga; corporate retreats, private parties, and elegant public celebrations," Hamish said.

Access to the private residential garden is available during Mayfield's seasonal celebrations. Every other day, the public can explore the magnificently curated garden's visitor experiences and horticultural stories.

You can row across lakes and marvel at an 80-metre cascade, stroll through the stunning 6-acre Water Garden and the Grotto; there's a dedicated English rose garden, palatial chook houses, a Walled Kitchen Garden and a Garden Centre.

Mayfield is also a food experience with its café and produce store with 80% of its produce sourced from the grounds, and the remaining 20% from the Oberon region.

Tickets to the James Reyne concert cost $85 per adult and $35 per child (includes garden entry).

For return bus transfer packages from Oberon, Bathurst, Orange, Lithgow and Katoomba visit: www.mayfieldgarden.com.au

Mayfield

530 Mayfield Road Oberon, NSW 2787 Info@mayfieldgarden.com www.MayfieldGarden.com.au

Australia's new hotel brand

Australia's new hotel brand, TRIBE Hotel Group (TRIBE), is focused on giving guests everything they need and nothing they don't, in a space that is intelligent and sophisticated with high-end design.

Instead of being something to everyone, TRIBE has been created for tech savvy design lovers and urban explorers, who are meticulous when it comes to where they stay and prudent about what they pay. The result is a hotel that is as stylish as it smart.

Its first location, TRIBE Perth is a nine-storey 126-room hotel in West Perth - next to Kings Park - that will launch on Tuesday, 16 May 2017, with interiors by award-winning architect and interior designer Travis Walton; architecture by Idle Architecture Studio; and brand campaigns shot by Nicole Bentley.

TRIBE Perth has highly functional rooms and shared spaces that are luxurious and contemporary, with cutting edge technology, entertainment and office facilities as standard. Gone are out-dated and unwanted services, inefficient check-in and checkouts, overpriced mini bars and restaurants and room service.

Its luxurious and contemporary living areas – styled by Walton in collaboration with celebrated art director Marsha Golemac – are part collaborative workspace, part social club featuring break out spaces, lounges, an outdoor courtyard and TRIBE Foods. Design details include: lighting by Tom Dixon, Moroso feature chairs, Jean-Paul Gaultier cushions, Febrik upholstered sofas, and an impressively curated collection of work by Australian contemporary artists.

Walton has cleverly crafted the rooms to complement the unique and innovative living areas, all complete with free Wi-Fi, signature queen beds with a custom designed bed base to allow for 'out of the way storage', floor-to-ceiling windows and blackout blinds, and amenities including Nespresso pods and T2. Bathrooms feature rain showers and Kevin Murphy shower products.

With modern travellers in mind, rooms include smart TVs, Bluetooth digital radios and alarm clocks, a digital reading collection, and free movies on demand, while the common areas offer printing via smartphone streaming, guest iMacs and plug and play GPO and USB outlets throughout.

TRIBE Foods - a café by day and bar by night – will feature menus created by Tobie Puttock (River Café, Fifteen Restaurant) that will have a focus on sustainability, seasonality and ethical eating. Always fully stocked with refreshments and foods to fuel the body, guests can choose what works for them - eat together or alone; gorge or 'grab and go' the express way.

As Australia's first integrated modular design hotel, TRIBE sets itself apart from traditional accommodation by using a contemporary modular design and construction method comprising pre-fabricated guest rooms with sophisticated essentials for the modern traveller.

TRIBE founder Mark Peters is a pioneer in modular construction and a specialist hotel developer. His vision was to create an entirely new category of design hotels in Australia, with the view to expand globally.

“The contemporary traveller no longer checks into a hotel, they check in to a destination, that's why when we created TRIBE we re-evaluated the hotel model to prioritise the benefits they would want.

“We've focused on what matters so that we don't pass on costs to our guests for the things that don't, by paring back and refining our offering and using cost effective and smart modular construction we're able to share significant savings with our guests, making TRIBE an aspirational space at an accessible price,” says Peters.

Expansion plans are already well underway with new TRIBE hotel sites acquired in Adelaide, Hobart and Melbourne, and intentions to expand internationally over the next 10 years.

Created with an international cast of business travellers and urban explorers in mind, TRIBE is set to be a hotly anticipated new offering in the Australian hotel landscape.

Rooms start from $199 per night*.

Website: www.tribehotels.com.au

Traveloscopy | 

Anzac Day in France

If you are coming to France and visiting Paris around Anzac Day (April 25th), then you should visit an area close to Paris that is drenched in Australian history. The Somme is where many Australian soldiers fought, and where one of the most stunning victories of World War 1 took place.

The small town of Villers-Bretonneux, just outside Amiens, is the obvious place to head for if you are a WW1 history buff. It spectacularly recalls the Australian input into the battles at the Somme.

Experts from leading French tour company Paris On The Way have put together a list of the top 5 places that World War 1 enthusiasts should visit:

1) The Australian National Memorial at Villers-Bretonneux is the main memorial to Australian soldiers killed on the Western Front. Consisting of a tower listing the missing dead - almost 11,000 names, it commemorates the Second Battle of Villers-Bretonneux (24-27 April 1918).



2) The Franco-Australian Museum at Villers- Bretonneux tells the story of the Australian Imperial Force during World War 1 and offers an insight into the Australian story there.



3) Well-known both at home and abroad is the story of the ‘unknown soldier.’ The Adelaide Cemetery in Villers-Bretonneux contains his empty grave with the following inscription:



“The remains of an unknown Australian soldier lay in this grave for 75 years. On November 2, 1993, they were exhumed and now rest in the tomb of the Unknown Solider at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.”

4) The ‘Avenue des Australiens’ – is where you can visit a monument dedicated to the memory of the 2nd Australian Division. Remarkable for its many plaques, there is also a statue of an Australian soldier standing guard.



5) The Battle of the Fromelles Museum – takes visitors on a journey from ‘shadow to light’, exploring the disaster of the Battle of Fromelles and the recovery almost 100 years later of 250 soldiers that died at this battle in July 2016. Here you can see World War 1 artefacts such as uniforms and weapons as well as recreations of both German and Allied trenches using materials recovered from the original battleground.



These are just a few of the sights that Australians can visit. Paris on the way delivers a range of guided tours for those wishing to visit pertinent war sites around Paris.

Not your typical tour guide company, Paris On The Way is fully endorsed by the French Ministry for Culture, and delivers tours that are heart-felt, memorable and bespoke…combining French savoir faire with true joie de vivre.

Take a look at the full range of tours - http://www.parisontheway.com/

Nationwide Songkran celebrations kick off in Bangkok

Bangkok – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) kicked off this year’s Songkran celebrations with an Amazing Songkran Joyful Procession on 8 April in central Bangkok. The event, presided over by H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand, marked the opening of the Amazing Songkran Experience Festival 2017, which is taking place in Bangkok’s Benjasiri Park from 8-13 April, and will give everyone a taste of the Thai New Year in the different regions of Thailand.

H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn (centre) is joined by Miss Pranee Sattayaprakob, Deputy Permanent Secretary of BMA (left), H.E. Mrs Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul Minister of Tourism and Sports (2nd left), Mr. Kalin Sarasin, Chairman of TAT Board of Directors (right) and TAT Governor Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn (2nd right), at the opening of the Amazing Songkran Joyful Procession

H.E. General Tanasak Patimapragorn said, “The Amazing Songkran Festival Experience 2017 allows both Thais and international visitors to enjoy a deep appreciation of Songkran in Thailand and understand how it differs from region to region while uniting Thais in a spirit of respect and fun.”

After an opening ceremony which evoked Songkran traditions, the Amazing Songkran Joyful Procession took place on 8 April from 17.30 to 20.30 Hrs. and took a route down Sukhumvit Road, from the Phrom Phong Junction to Pathum Wan Intersection. The colourful procession, which opened the national Songkran celebrations was made up of six parts: 1) Amazing Blossom of Siam; 2) Songkran Goddess, Krini Devi who represented Songkran 2017; 3) Myths and traditions of Songkran told via floats, flowers and dances from the five regions of Thailand; 4) Green Songkran, represented by eco-friendly cars and the Earth of Green Songkran Show; 5) Songkran traditions of Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar; 6) The final parade will showcase classic and distinctive vehicles including rickshaws and tuk-tuks from many parts of Thailand.

The Amazing Songkran Joyful Procession showcased tradition, dances and colour from all the main regions of Thailand.

The grand processions kicked off the five-day Amazing Songkran Festival Experience 2017 which will see the Sukhumvit side of Benjasiri Park divided into Four Zones until 13 April.

Zone 1 is where visitors can pay respect to the Buddha image, experience the ancient traditions of Songkran and learn how to make scented water and flowers displays in fun workshops.

Zone 2 showcases Songkran traditions in five regions, including Pee Mai Muang in the North; Boon Duen Ha in the Northeast, the ethnic Mon-style Songkran in the Central Region, and the Sri Maharaja Songkran from the East, as well as local costumes and the fishing culture from the South.

Zone 3 is where Songkran related snacks and desserts from all regions of Thailand can be sampled, including Khao Chae – a dish of steamed rice in jasmine-scented iced water served with savoury accompaniments.

Zone 4 is the event’s main stage which features shows and entertainment, including Thai Blind Boxing and a Miss Amazing Songkran International Beauty Contest.

 
In the Amazing Songkran Festival Experience 2017, visitors can learn about the traditions of Songkran and understand how they differ across Thailand.

Mr. Patimapragorn concluded, “We hope that after having enjoyed a glimpse of how Songkran is celebrated distinctively in different parts of Thailand, Thais and international visitors will be inspired to head upcountry to enjoy Songkran in a traditional setting.”

During the 2017 Songkran Festival, it is estimated that the number of international tourists traveling to Thailand to join the fun will rise 10 per cent to over 470,000. This will generate revenue of 8.05 million Baht, an increase of 17 per cent over the same New Year period last year.

The Amazing Songkran Festival Experience 2017 takes place until 13 April from 16.00 to 20.00 hrs. and from noon onwards on 13 April 2017.

MTA: Erosion of travel agents at the expense of OTAs a "furphy"

Merricks: "OTAs promoting themselves as online
versions of traditional travel agents a "misnomer'"

Mobile Travel Agents' (MTA) co-managing director, Roy Merricks has labelled comments inferring travel agents and travel advisors' positions are being eroded at the expense of Online Travel Agents (OTAs) as, in his opinion, a "furphy".

Speaking from the company's national Head Office on the Gold Coast, Mr Merricks has queried whether OTAs such as Webjet and similar organisations should even be considered as de facto travel agents or travel advisers.

"Any OTA promoting itself as a travel agent or travel advisor could be construed as "potentially misleading," Mr Merricks said.

"OTAs don't deliver the products or complete services provided by a credentialed national agency, such as MTA, with true connections and support for clients on the ground globally."

Mr Merricks said that while originally, OTAs had specialised in either flights or hotel reservations, over the years they have generally added to that base to include other land content designed to broaden their appeal.

"The misnomer is they are effectively promoting themselves as an online version of a traditional travel agent - without a shop - and therefore suggesting they are more readily available," he said.

"Nothing is further from the truth and it is, in my opinion, potentially misleading when OTAs promote themselves as a travel agent or travel advisor in the sense of the words understood by consumers.

"At the end of the day the travel distribution system, travel agents and travel advisors are alive and growing well.

"OTA's should perhaps be more aptly described as Online Travel Algorithms - let's see them for what they really are."

W: www.mtatravel.com.au

F:   www.facebook.com/mobiletravelagents          

Virtuoso's Hottest New Hotels for 2017

Jetsetters wondering where to go next, look no further! Leading luxury and experiential travel network Virtuoso, along with its more than 770 travel agency partners worldwide, has identified the hottest hotel openings around the globe for this winter season and beyond.

Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya, Mexico
Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya opened its 214-room property on December 12, 2016. Bordering a crystalline lagoon and mangroves, the resort features an open layout flooded with sunlight and décor inspired by nature. Guests can explore the nearby ruins of Tulum, enjoy the natural swimming holes and access the 18-hole El Camaleón golf course designed by renowned architect and PGA legend Greg Norman. Virtuoso guests receive an upgrade on arrival if available, daily breakfast for two, a $120 credit to use towards a professional photo shoot or within the resort, plus a farewell gift.

Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, California
The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills will open in April 2017 on the corner of Wilshire and Santa Monica Boulevards. Each of the 170 rooms will have unobstructed views of the city. Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten will oversee the hotel's restaurant and the property will also offer a 5,000-square-foot spa and rooftop pool, the largest of its kind in Beverly Hills. Virtuoso guests will enjoy an upgrade at booking if available, American breakfast for two daily, a private one-way airport transfer, complimentary Wi-Fi and early check in and late check-out if available.

The Bangkok EDITION, Thailand
The Bangkok EDITION, a collaboration between Marriott International and renowned hotelier Ian Schrager, will open in June 2017. The 155-room property will be housed in the tallest building in Thailand, MahaNakhon Tower, overlooking Bangkok's skyline. Virtuoso guests will receive an upgrade at booking if available, breakfast for two daily, a $100 food and beverage credit, early check-in and late check-out if available, and for suite stays, a private one-way airport transfer.

The Fontenay Hamburg, Germany
When its doors open in summer 2017, the Fontenay Hamburg will be the city's first new luxury hotel in 18 years. Located on the tranquil banks of Lake Alster, the fluid-like exterior mirrors the rippled lines in the water and surrounding parkland. The 131 rooms and suites each have a private balcony, with the majority featuring lake views. The property will also offer a 10,000-square-foot spa with therapeutic and medical treatments as well as cycling and running programs. Virtuoso guests will receive a complimentary upgrade and daily breakfast for two, plus more perks to come.

Park Hyatt St. Kitts, St. Kitts and Nevis
Park Hyatt St. Kitts will open in summer 2017 on Banana Bay, a secluded cove of white-sand beach. Overlooking The Narrows, a strait separating St. Kitts and the volcanic island of Nevis, the hotel will feature 126 rooms, 48 of which are suites with private rooftop pools and sea views. In addition to a trio of dining options, rum bar, 12-room spa and yoga pavilion, the resort will offer day-long Kittitian Journeys, which focus on the island's history, culture and nature. Virtuoso guests will receive an upgrade on arrival if available, a welcome amenity, full breakfast for two daily, a $100 resort credit, complimentary Wi-Fi and early check-in/late check-out if available.


Adare Manor, Ireland
Situated on the banks of the Maigue River and surrounded by medieval ruins, the 19th-century neo-Gothic Adare Manor will unveil an 18-month, multimillion-dollar renovation in September 2017. Architects Reardon Smith, known for their restoration of luxury hotels in London, and leading hospitality interior designer Richmond International will update the manor with modern amenities while preserving its historic past. The transformation will include a refurbished championship golf course and a renovated golf clubhouse as well as a new spa, pool, cinema and ballroom. A bedroom wing will also be added, bringing the room count to 104. Virtuoso guests will receive a complimentary upgrade and daily breakfast for two, plus other benefits.

Each hotel has been thoroughly vetted to ensure it meets with Virtuoso's exacting standards, and invited to participate in the organization's Virtuoso Preview program. As part of Preview, hotels work with Virtuoso and their affiliated advisors during the hotel's crucial preopening phase, taking guidance from the industry's best salesforce while also securing a jumpstart on bookings. In exchange, guests who reserve their stay through a Virtuoso advisor receive exclusive benefits not available through any credit card program or website, delivering tangible value upwards of $450 per stay in the way of spa treatments, rounds of golf and other services and experiences that help define the property.

Americans Avoiding Certain Countries Due to Perceived Global Threats

VIRTUOSO® FLASH POLL FINDS TRAVEL DISRUPTIONS OCCURRING AS A RESULT OF VUCA

A new survey by international travel agency network Virtuoso has found travellers are avoiding certain worldwide destinations as a result of the uncertainty tied to specific countries and global regions. Virtuoso was one of the first travel organisations to introduce the term VUCA, which stands for volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous, as a means of describing the potential travel disruptions caused by geopolitical situations.

"The world is going through a transition where uncertainty is the new norm," says Matthew D. Upchurch, Chairman and CEO of Virtuoso. "Whether it's Brexit, the shifting political climate in the U.S., or the threat of terrorism or disease such as Zika, there seems to be only two certainties. First, we have no idea what we might wake up to find tomorrow because change happens fast. Two, and this is of utmost importance, travel is the best way to bring people together when isolation begins. At Virtuoso, we say borders divide, but travel unites. Never has it been more important to keep the ability to travel as a fundamental right."

Among the questions asked, Virtuoso surveyed its travel advisors globally to discover the impact of the Presidential Executive Order disallowing travelers from seven countries to enter the U.S. Although the order is not currently in effect, Virtuoso advisors report that it is still impacting clients' travel decisions. Among U.S.-based advisors, 10 percent say clients are changing travel plans due to a concern over anti-American sentiment. However, a much higher 40 percent say their clients are now avoiding certain destinations due to concerns over terrorism, including the Middle East, Europe and Africa, with Turkey and Egypt topping the list of countries. Instead, Americans are choosing to travel within their own country, as well as visit those perceived as safer, including Japan, Canada and New Zealand.

Forty-two percent of Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisors outside of the U.S. say their clients are avoiding travel to the United States due to factors including opposition to the country's foreign policy and concerns over obtaining visas. As an alternative, they are electing to travel to destinations such as Italy, Australia and the U.K. The majority of advisors anticipate the slowdown in travel to the U.S. will last three to six months.