An Instagram Hotel, the Revamped Naumi and Travel Tips from Readers
Hashtag Hotel
Your Instagram addiction just got a little more justifiable—all thanks to the picture-perfect 1888 Hotel in Sydney. Dedicated to all things photography (Kodak launched its box cameras in 1888), this boutique hotel comes complete with Instagram-inspired city maps and even a “selfie” space where guests can #instabinge in complete solidarity. And all those hours playing with filters may finally pay off too: 1888 Hotel is offering a free night’s stay to any Instagrammer with more than 10,000 followers. The snap-happy hotel is also offering an ongoing Picture Perfect package (from $2,052), which includes one night in a very photogenic King Deluxe room, breakfast, “FoodPorn” (that’s a brag-worthy antipasto spread plus wine) and “Shar-ability” i.e., free Wi-Fi. In other words, you can upload to your heart’s content.
Rooms start at $1,342. 139 Murray St., Pyrmont, NSW 2009, +61-2-8586-1888, www.1888hotel.com.au.
The New Naumi
If you’re heading to Singapore anytime soon, then you may want to check out the completely revamped Naumi Hotel. This award-winner just underwent a multi-million dollar makeover, and now it’s looking better than ever. Naumi reopened in November, showing off its 73 Chanel- and Warhol-inspired rooms, sound-proof windows, Apple TVs, revamped infinity pool, avant-garde staff uniforms and hot new resto: Table by Rang Mahal. And unlike a lot of S’pore hotels, the Naumi is far from stingy with the add-ons. The fully stocked mini bar? Free. Those evening “turndown” cocktails? Free. Wi-Fi? Yep, you guessed it; that’s free too. See you soon, Singapore.
Rooms start at $2,230. 41 Seah St., Singapore, +65-6403-6000, www.naumihotel.com.
Blending Machine
It seems like a million travel apps have been popping up lately, but one I’ve found particularly useful is the TimeBlend app and website, which helps super-sociable travelers connect with like-minded people. A forum-slash-social network, TimeBlend enables you to ask for advice, build itineraries or simply browse through the heaps of user images for some inspiration. Maybe you’re backpacking through Guilin, hoping to split a hotel room in Chicago or looking for a road trip buddy in Sydney: the free app and website show you who else is craving some company. And for those who aren’t quite so keen to mingle, the network's still useful for itinerary planning, travel tips and budgeting.