Suite deal leaves slump in slipstream

The surprise success of a three-night holiday package for two people costing $400,000 has Peninsula hotel staff asking: 'Recession? What recession?'

As mini-breaks go, it is the acme of luxury and excess. The couple fly in a private Gulfstream IV jet to a Peninsula hotel in Bangkok, Manila or Beijing. From there, it's presidential suites, smoked-glass limousines and white-gloved fawning all the way. And about $100-a-minute, minus tips.

'It's just sooooo excessive,' our source cooed. But with at least five couples already signed up, the offer has been extended to March 31.