Queenly Victoria A relatively new player Victoria Hotels and Resorts has entered Vietnam and Cambodia hotel scene. In Cambodia, the shuttered, luxurious Victoria Angkor can be found in Siem Reap, close to the celebrated temples. In Vietnam, the chain's four-star colonial era properties can be found on the Mekong Delta, on the beaches of the South China Sea and in the northern mountains. And as a special treat, guests staying at the Victoria Sapa Hotel, close to the Chinese border in the north, can enjoy exclusive passage on the Victoria Express from Hanoi to Lao Cai. Accommodating 48 passengers, the train, kitted out in the style of the Orient Express, incorporates wood-panelled sleeping carriages for all travellers. Go to www.victoriahotels-asia.com for more information. Capital idea Cathay Pacific has extended its Hong Kong-Beijing service from three flights a week to a daily return run. And to mark the occasion its Visit Beijing Now promotion gives passengers two nights' free accommodation in one of three capital properties. Travellers until February 28 (booking by January 14) can stay in a suite at the Marco Polo Beijing, Novotel Peace or Shangri-La Kerry Centre hotels. Accumulation of Asia Miles is subject to applicable fare conditions. Inquiries: Kandy Chan on 2747 5211. Following yonder star The Covent Garden Travelodge in London is offering a free night's stay to couples named Mary and Joseph during the festive period - as long as they can prove who they are. The hotel is reportedly trying to 'make up for the hotel industry's not having any rooms left on Christmas Eve, all those years ago'. 'We're more than happy to welcome any Mary and Joseph couples into our hotel,' said manager Sandy Leckie said. 'It's definitely more comfortable than a stable. I just hope they don't bring their donkey.' Bottom line After an unsuccessful year-long campaign against sexual assault, most female travellers in Japan say all trains should be gender segregated. According to The Times newspaper in Britain, a survey by the country's largest train operators found that 64 per cent of women in their 20s and 30s have been molested on public transport, with most respondents claiming to have been targeted several times in the past year. Authorities admit the problem has been around for decades, despite the deterrent of a seven-year jail sentence for offenders. Many women, however, are said to be too ashamed to report such crimes. Send news items to stephen.mccarty@scmp.com
