Splendid idea
The Shangri-La's China World Hotel, Beijing, is tempting business travellers with its Suite Splendour deals. Executive suites are available for US$325 a night (single occupancy) and US$360 (double). Confusingly, the promotion also extends to premier rooms, which are priced at US$275 (single) and US$310 (double).
All suites and rooms come with complimentary broadband internet access (subject to availability at the time of reservation), and confer on the guest entry to the China World's exclusive Horizon Club Lounge, where complimentary breakfasts, refreshments and cocktails are served. More incentives come in the shape of dinner at Aria, the hotel's European restaurant, a traditional Chinese massage, and a 50 per cent room discount voucher for repeat visitors.
But what makes the initiative stand out is the hotel's airport butler service. The butler meets guests at the door of the aircraft as they disembark at Beijing, escorts them through immigration, luggage retrieval and customs, and accompanies them to the hotel limousine. On departure, the butler takes guests through the procedures in reverse order.
Winter warmer
Ah, winter: sunshine, beaches, azure water and sea breezes. That, at least, is Star Cruises' idea of the next few months for passengers taking its fly-cruise package from Hong Kong to Hawaii.