Voting opens in hotel awards - 2002 Best Business Hotels In Asia Awards - Brief Article

Business Asia, April, 2002

The finalists have been chosen for the 2002 best business hotels in Asia awards. business Asia will profile all of the hotel finalists in the lead up to the gala Awards ceremony to be held on 3 September. Readers are urged to vote for their favourites using the voting coupon on page 17, or vote on-line at www.charlton.com.au.

AUSTRALIA

Grand Hyatt Melbourne

Located in the heart of the city's central business and shopping district, the Grand Hyatt Melbourne boasts 15 function rooms which all offer audio visual equipment, satellite reception for teleconferencing, as well as support services and full kosher kitchen facilities. Luxury accommodation includes 547 rooms and a variety of suites. A full size flood-lit tennis court, professional gymnasium, indoor heated pool, and fitness assessments are included in the list of health and fitness facilities.

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Accommodation at the Park Hyatt Melbourne consists of oversized rooms and superbly appointed suites, some of which have open fireplaces, spas and terraces. A walk-in wardrobe and extra-wide beds are standard features. In terms of business facilities, the hotel has a number of rooms covering small meetings to large gatherings of up to 600 guests. Services include general meeting equipment and a fully appointed Business Centre providing extensive meeting facilities with after-hours secretarial services.

Park Hyatt Sydney

The Park Hyatt Sydney offers 158 guest rooms, most with balconies overlooking the harbour and the famous Sydney Opera House. All rooms have individually controlled airconditioning, separate dressing rooms, Netport and internet television access. In addition to regular services, the business centre offers local commerce information and private offices. The hotel's residential scale allows for six rooms to accommodate boardroom style meetings for up to 30 people. Cuisine includes a stylish harbourside restaurant and bar, as well as a deli kitchen.

The Regent Sydney

Occupying one of Sydney's prime locations, The Regent Sydney overlooks both the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge from the historic Rocks area. A recent renovation has transformed the hotel's 531 rooms and suites, which boast all the luxuries expected of a modern hotel. For business, there is over 1300 square metres of meeting and function space, enhanced by a three-level atrium style lobby. A comprehensive spa and fitness centre featuring a sauna and heated outdoor pool are available for those able to catch some relaxation time.

The Westin Melbourne

Located on Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne consists of seven floors, which offer 262 rooms and six meeting rooms. An executive conference centre provides extensive business services and the latest technology. In terms of cuisine, dining-in options include fresh Mediterranean specialties at Allegro Restaurant, or there are a number of bars for relaxed get-togethers. A Wellness Centre offers soothing spa treatments. The hotel is close to the Plaza Ballroom, Regent Theatre and St Paul's Cathedral.

The Westin Sydney

The Westin Sydney is an integral part of the historic redevelopment of the Sydney General Post Office, and boasts stunning architecture. Expansive meeting space includes a ballroom that accommodates up to 1000 guests, supported by a 24-hour business centre. The concierge service and 24-hour front desk enhance the efficiency of running meetings and events. The 31 floors also include 416 rooms and suites, a fitness centre with massage service, and the latest exercise machines. Positioned in the heart of Sydney's central business district, the hotel is close to The Queen Victoria Building, the Botanical Gardens and Circular Quay.

W Hotel Sydney

Created by Starwood Hotels and Resorts, the W Hotel Sydney is the first W property outside of North America. The boutique hotel is situated on the Wharf at Wooloomooloo, in the heart of a luxury marina, entertainment and apartment complex. Stylish and fun, the hotel boasts 104 rooms and a variety of services including concierge, 24-hour front desk, car rental and business centre. The hotel is in walking distance to the central business and shopping district.

CHINA

China World Hotel Beijing

Managed by Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, China World Hotel offers 709 rooms, including 75 suites. An extensive range of services take the hassle out of travelling, such as taxi and limousine service, laundry and dry cleaning, and foreign exchange. A business centre including translation services is on hand, and two boardrooms and one meeting room provide space for business to be conducted. For informal business get-togethers or relaxation, there is an entertainment centre that boasts a bowling alley, simulation games, mahjong and karaoke rooms.

Grand Hyatt Shanghai

Self-titled as the "highest hotel in the world", the Grand Hyatt Shanghai offers breathtaking views from its 555 rooms. 12 restaurants and bars within the hotel also boast spectacular outlooks, while private banquets can be held in one of two pillarless ballrooms. For meetings, there are 11 smaller rooms, an auditorium and an exhibition hall -- all with state-of-the-art multimedia equipment. For international events, there is also a multi-language simultaneous translation system.