W Sydney: A Modern Icon in Darling Harbour

By Author

Published on October 23, 2023

W Sydney, a new architectural gem, has graced the shores of Darling Harbour, Australia's vibrant capital city. As part of the W Hotels brand, it marks a triumphant return to Sydney and promises to be a coveted destination for both travelers and locals. Let's take a closer look at what makes this hotel so special.

The Heart of Darling Harbour

Situated within the stunning architectural structure known as The Ribbon, W Sydney is designed to hug Darling Harbour. It’s been meticulously crafted to offer a unique blend of luxury and modern energy, providing an exceptional experience for visitors.

Embracing Australian Spirit

The hotel’s interiors, designed by London-based Bowler James Brindley, pay homage to Sydney’s history, spirit, and culture. From marine-inspired rooms and suites to distinctive restaurant and bars, the essence of Sydney is infused into every corner. At the core of the design is “the larrikin,” a quintessentially Australian character whose vibrant spirit influences the hotel’s unconventional yet luxurious interiors.

Architecture

From the moment you step into W Sydney, you’re on a design-led journey. The entry, covered in copper, is a tribute to the city’s disused railway tunnels. An illuminated vertical promenade leads you into the Living Room, a social hub with a vivid blue theme that reinvents the traditional lobby. This space is inspired by the Australian Bowerbird, featuring an electric blue circular bar and nest-like seating.

Chic Guest Rooms

W Sydney’s 588 guestrooms, including 162 exceptional suites, draw inspiration from the nearby harbors and beaches. With a palette of nautical white and navy-blue, these rooms exude a marine-chic ambiance. The undulating walls pay homage to the sails of yachts in the marina, creating a unique and visually captivating experience.

Food and Beverage

W Sydney doesn’t just provide a place to sleep; it offers a vibrant culinary and nightlife scene. The hotel boasts four dining and bar venues across three exciting levels. BTWN, located adjacent to a flyover, brings the energy of night food markets to its urban surroundings. Head Chef Chris Dodd, known for his work at Aria and Blue Door, presents menus that highlight the best of New South Wales’ produce. If you’re a night owl, don’t miss 2AM: dessertbar, a late-night hotspot in collaboration with dessert guru Janice Wong.

Living Room’s menus reflect the hotel’s location on the edge of Asiatown, with a focus on Sake, Soju, and Asian small bites. For a fantastic view of Darling Harbour, head to 29/30, a two-level bar. And don’t forget the WET Deck level bar, which evokes an underwater world with coral-inspired lighting.

Relax and Recharge

If you’re looking to unwind, AWAY Spa offers a serene space designed to leave you feeling rested and recharged. The hotel’s FIT Gym is equipped with Technogym equipment, and the WET Deck is the perfect place to chill poolside with stunning views of Darling Harbour.

Business with a View

For business travelers, W Sydney offers over 1,300 square meters of event space across eight versatile rooms. The hotel’s Great Room on level five features floor-to-ceiling windows that offer extraordinary views of the city. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, the hotel promises a unique and unforgettable experience.

W Sydney redefines luxury in the heart of Darling Harbour, offering a new cultural and social hub that captures the vibrant spirit of Sydney. It’s a departure from traditional hotels, and visitors are bound to feel the unique W spirit at every touchpoint.

About W Hotels

Born from the bold, 24/7 culture of New York City, W Hotels has been redefining hospitality for over two decades. With over 60 hotels worldwide, each property offers a unique experience that is often imitated but never matched. The brand is known for its detail-driven design, Whatever/Whenever service, and signature Living Rooms that create dynamic and invigorating spaces. W Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International.

From marine-inspired rooms to a vibrant culinary scene and serene spa, W Sydney by W Hotels promises a distinctive and unforgettable experience in Sydney’s vibrant heart.

Salt Lake Winter Roundup Returns with Sports and Cultural Festivities

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 14, 2025

Visit Salt Lake is thrilled to bring back the Salt Lake Winter Roundup, scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2025. In partnership with the Days of '47 Rodeo, this all-day event will transform downtown Salt Lake’s West Temple, between City Creek Center and Abravanel Hall, into a bustling western hub. Celebrating Salt Lake’s legacy in sports, arts, and culture, the Winter Roundup promises an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike.

Exciting Activities for All Ages

The Salt Lake Winter Roundup boasts a lineup of thrilling activities and performances. Highlights include:

Skijoring (1–4 p.m.): A high-energy fusion of rodeo and ski racing.
Live Music & Performances: Local talent and cultural showcases.
Interactive Fun: Mechanical bull rides and family-friendly attractions.
Food & Brand Activations: Delicious offerings from food vendors and interactive brand experiences.

Kaitlin Eskelson, President & CEO of Visit Salt Lake, shared her enthusiasm for the event:
“This year’s Salt Lake Winter Roundup is a celebration of Salt Lake’s welcoming spirit and rich history. Events like this connect visitors and locals to our vibrant culture while supporting our visitor economy, from hotels to local businesses. We’re proud to showcase what makes Salt Lake such a unique and thriving destination.”

A Partnership to Celebrate Heritage

The collaboration with the Days of '47 Rodeo brings an authentic touch of Utah’s western culture. Tommy Joe Lucia, Executive Director of the Days of '47 Rodeo, expressed his excitement:
“The Utah Days of '47 Rodeo is proud to partner with Visit Salt Lake to showcase our state’s western culture and heritage with this spectacular festival. It’s a winter wild west ride like no other.”

More to Explore in Salt Lake

The Winter Roundup is just the start. Visitors can extend their stay and enjoy a variety of events, including:

Professional Bull Riding at the Delta Center.
Stunning performances from Ballet West and the Utah Symphony.
Dining and nightlife options across the city.

For full event details, hotel packages, and a complete schedule of activities, visit Visit Salt Lake Winter Roundup.

About Visit Salt Lake

Visit Salt Lake is a private, non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting Salt Lake as a convention and travel destination. By enhancing the local economy and fostering sustainable tourism, Visit Salt Lake contributes significantly to the area’s $5.8 billion visitor economy.

Hyatt Centric Makes Its Nepal Debut in the Heart of Kathmandu

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 14, 2025

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, in collaboration with City Hotel, has officially launched Hyatt Centric Soalteemode Kathmandu, marking the debut of the Hyatt Centric brand in Nepal. The property, formerly known as Hyatt Place Kathmandu, has been extensively renovated to reflect the vibrant culture of Kathmandu while offering world-class amenities.

Nestled in the heart of the city, Hyatt Centric Soalteemode Kathmandu is designed to be the perfect base for explorers and savvy travelers seeking an authentic connection with the city’s cultural pulse. The hotel features 153 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, blending functionality, contemporary aesthetics, and locally inspired art. All guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a seamless stay.

Highlighting the significance of this transformation, Akshay Golyan, Executive Director of City Hotel, remarked:

“After an extensive renovation, we are excited to introduce the Hyatt Centric brand to Nepal, offering our guests a gateway to Kathmandu’s cultural and contemporary pulse. Hyatt Centric Soalteemode Kathmandu is designed to inspire exploration while providing a modern local home base for savvy travelers, so they never miss a moment of adventure.”

The hotel offers over 8,600 square feet of versatile event spaces, accommodating groups ranging from 10 to 600 people. These spaces are ideal for business meetings, social gatherings, and weddings, making the property a hub for events in Kathmandu.

Varun Talwar, General Manager of Hyatt Centric Soalteemode Kathmandu, shared his enthusiasm:

“We are thrilled to open our doors and welcome guests and World of Hyatt members to the first Hyatt Centric branded hotel in Nepal. From meticulous design to innovative culinary offerings, we aim to become the starting point for every traveler’s adventure.”

Dining at the property is a sensory delight. The Centric Lounge serves as a vibrant social space offering artisanal coffees, signature cocktails, and locally inspired bites. Guests can indulge in global flavors with a local twist at NOON, the all-day dining restaurant, or enjoy stunning views of Kathmandu at ZING Sky Pool Bar & Deck, the poolside bar and lounge.

Hyatt Centric Soalteemode Kathmandu perfectly combines modern comfort with cultural immersion, making it a unique destination for travelers looking to explore the charm of Kathmandu. With its strategic location, luxurious offerings, and a strong emphasis on local culture, the property sets a new benchmark for hospitality in Nepal.

Free Airbnbs and Hotel Discounts for LA Wildfire Victims

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 14, 2025

The ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles have forced over 180,000 people to evacuate, leaving many with no homes to return to as entire neighborhoods have been reduced to ashes. In the wake of this devastation, the hospitality and tourism industry has stepped up, providing crucial support to displaced residents and travelers in need.

Free Accommodation Through Airbnb

Holiday rental platform Airbnb, in partnership with 211 LA, is offering free temporary housing to wildfire victims. Funded by Airbnb.org, a nonprofit established to provide emergency housing during crises, and supported by Airbnb hosts, these accommodations focus on the hardest-hit areas, including Altadena, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Santa Monica, and Sylmar.

Vrbo has also extended support by offering refunds to guests who had to cancel reservations due to fire damage in affected areas.

Discounted Hotel Stays

Hotels in Los Angeles and Anaheim have joined the relief efforts, offering discounted rates to evacuees. Guests staying at these properties are advised to keep their receipts and photos for insurance reimbursement. Among the pet-friendly options are Hilton Irvine Orange County Airport, Alisal Ranch, and Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, which are welcoming evacuees with animals.

Free Transportation Options
Ride-sharing services Uber and Lyft are providing free transport for evacuees. Uber is offering trips valued up to $40, while Lyft allows two rides of up to $25 each to shelters in fire-affected areas, ensuring evacuees can travel safely.

Tourism Industry Unites

The Los Angeles Tourism Board has compiled a comprehensive list of resources, including discounted hotel stays, to assist those impacted by the fires. These efforts reflect the industry's commitment to helping communities in times of crisis.

Amid this challenging time, businesses are rallying to offer support, demonstrating the power of community and solidarity. Whether through free accommodation, discounted stays, or transportation, the travel industry is playing a critical role in aiding those affected by the wildfires.

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