Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel Sydney Central – Perfect for a City Escape - Metro Hotels

2012-02-28T16:03:00.002-08:00

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is the perfect accommodation choice for visitors to Sydney, situated right in the heart of Sydney’s entertainment district and providing easy access to the best Sydney has to offer.

Situated directly opposite the Capitol Theatre, Metro Hotel Sydney Central is the ideal accommodation choice for theatre-goers, particularly with the amazing line-up of internationally-acclaimed productions planned for this year and next.

Shows include Shen Yun (April 27 – May 6, 2012); The Nutcracker on Ice (June 2012); The Addams Family (March 2013); and The Lion King (December 2013), and guests are advised to book their accommodation at the same time as they book their tickets to avoid disappointment.

Located in Pitt Street in the city, Metro Hotel Sydney Central offers quality, comfortable accommodation, including 10 guest suites, 154 superior rooms and, for the more budget conscious, 66 well-equipped standard rooms.

Guests will enjoy a little slice of Asia with Chinatown, Little Japan, Little Korea and ThaiTown offering an eclectic mix of restaurants, mini-marts and shopping outlets all within easy walking distance.

Read on:

Metro Hotel Sydney Central – Perfect for a City Escape - Metro Hotels

Experience Life in the Heart of the Sydney at Metro Apartments Darling Harbour - Metro Hotels

2012-02-28T15:38:00.000-08:00

As one of the world’s most picturesque and exciting international cities, Sydney attracts visitors from all over the world eager to experience its stunning harbour views, fabulous nightlife, boutique shopping and wonderful sightseeing.

Yet while international tourists will fly half way around the world to see what Sydney has to offer, many Australian residents have never experienced what puts Sydney on the world map as one of the most attractive cities for global travellers.

Situated in the heart of Sydney directly across from Darling Harbour, Metro Apartments Darling Harbour is a popular choice for discerning tourists from both at home and abroad eager to find comfortable, affordable accommodation located in close proximity to all major attractions.
Head west from your apartment and you’ll find yourself at King Street Wharf and Cockle Bay, popular precincts on the shores of Darling Harbour. Enjoy a cocktail in one of the many boutique bars, a meal in one of the harbourside restaurants, or a 3D movie at IMAX. Play tourist at Sydney Aquarium, Wildlife World or Australian Maritime Museum, or stroll across the footbridge to try your luck at The Star casino.

If you are looking for world-class shopping, walk east from your apartment and into Sydney’s retail heart, with the Queen Victoria Building, Westfield Sydney and flagship David Jones and Myer stores all a short stroll from your front door.

For unique Asian food and culture, head south to Sydney’s Little Japan, Little Korea and ThaiTown. Be sure to sample Yum Cha or a Chinese banquet from the huge array of restaurants in Sydney’s Chinatown, then keep walking through to the Entertainment Precinct and take in a show at the historic Capitol Theatre.

For sightseeing, head north beside the sandstone walls of the Hungry Mile and Barangaroo, recently marked for redevelopment. Stop at one of the beautiful harbourside cafes at Jones Street Wharf then continue around the harbour foreshore to The Rocks, a must to explore before venturing on to the Opera House and Botanic Gardens. This historic walk will show you the real Sydney but be warned – it is also popular for late-night ghost tours.
Read On:

Experience Life in the Heart of the Sydney at Metro Apartments Darling Harbour - M etro Hotels

Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour: Experience Life in the Heart of the Sydney at Metro Apartments Darling Harbour - Metro Hotels

Metro Inn Ryde Perfectly Positioned for Work, Rest and Play - Metro Hotels

2012-02-26T21:36:00.000-08:00

Whether you are visiting Sydney to attend one of the many special events on at Sydney Olympic Park or have business in the north west region of Sydney, Metro Inn Ryde is the ideal and affordable accommodation choice for both business and leisure travellers.

Situated north of the Parramatta River close to the recently refurbished Top Ryde City, Metro Inn Ryde offers easy access to the city and to a variety of popular locations in Sydney’s north-west.

The Inn is just a 10 minute drive to Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney’s major entertainment and sporting destination, where major international acts choose to perform in the Allphones Arena and the gladiators of Australian sport battle it out for supremacy at the ANZ Stadium.

With Lady Gaga and State of Origin being staged here in the winter of 2012, there is always something happening at Sydney Olympic Park, also home to the Royal Easter Show - a family event which brings the country to the city and attracts 900,000 annually.

Metro Inn Ryde is also ideally located for people studying at Macquarie University and Meadowbank TAFE, one of the largest colleges in Sydney, while corporate travellers find the lnn well situated for business in the nearby Macquarie and Rhodes Business Parks. Patients, their families and staff attending Concord Hospital and Macquarie University Hospital, a popular training hospital, also appreciate the convenience of the location.

For those visiting Sydney to shop, Top Ryde City offers all the benefits of a contemporary shopping experience with many of Australia’s top designers located here. For those searching for a bargain, DFO is close by, offering designer outlet stores for big name brands such as Oroton, Simone Perele, Calvin Klein and Royal Doulton, or head down the river to Birkenhead Point for more bargain choices.

Metro Inn Ryde offers 40 guest rooms with en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning and heating, TV, tea and coffee making facilities and a fridge. Entertainment and communication facilities including Foxtel, telephone and internet access are also provided in each room and guests enjoy free parking, free unlimited WiFi and home-cooked meals in the licensed Palms restaurant on-site.
An outdoor pool and barbecue area provides a relaxing space of casual informality to help guests wind down after attending a business function, an event at Olympic Park, a day’s shopping or sightseeing in Sydney.

The Inn is within walking distance of Meadowbank train station, ferry and bus connections and fronts onto one of Sydney’s major arterial links, Victoria Road. The Hotel’s closeness to public transport makes it easy for guests to travel into the CBD within 30 minutes, or to exit the city by road on the southbound M5 or northbound F3 arterial network.

Guests can book at Metro Inn Ryde and other Metro Hotels properties by calling the toll free Central Reservations line on 1800 004 321. Alternatively bookings can be made online at www.metrohotels.com.au or www.metroinnryde.com

Metro Inn Ryde Perfectly Positioned for Work, Rest and Play - Metro Hotels

Stay 3 Nights and Save at Metro Inn Albany @ Metro Inn Albany - Metro Hotels

2012-02-23T15:18:00.001-08:00

Stay at Metro Inn Albany for a minimum of 3 consecutive nights to SAVE.

- Standard Queen Room for $85.00 per night
- Moderate Queen & Single room = $90.00 per night

Terms & Conditions:

- Valid 23 February until 31 August 2012
- Subject to availability
- Not available over public holidays/ special event periodsTerms & Conditions

Stay 3 Nights and Save at Metro Inn Albany @ Metro Inn Albany - Metro Hotels

Stay 3 Nights and Save at Metro Inn Albany @ Metro Inn Albany - Metro Hotels

Valentine’s Day Day Hamper Winner – Aspire Hotel Competition

2012-02-19T17:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Aspire Hotel Sydney conducted a Valentine’s day promotion drawing a prize of a hamper for our guest winner,

Guest’s had to the oppertunity to participate in this competition by filling out an e-metro card

The winner was picked on Valentine’s Day evening.

Valentine’s Day Day Hamper Winner – Aspire Hotel Competition

Brisbane's Carbrook Golf Course - Metro Hotels

2012-02-14T21:01:00.000-08:00

“Hotel General Manager – Allan Hilt said” - It will be a big year for the club as they will host their first National Championship in April 2012 with the Australian Girls’ Amateur Championship and the Australian Girls’ Interstate Teams Matches.

Check out the sharks – see the u tube video’s that have caused a sensation around the world the sharks in the lake around the 13th to 15th holes, “absolutely no searching for your lost golf ball”

The golf club is one of the very few members' owned golf clubs established in Queensland in the last 50 years. As such, the members have control over their own destiny, without interference from landlords or other external parties, and enjoy knowing that any contribution they make to the club stays with the club.

The club property consists of 3 blocks of riverfront land on Beenleigh-Redland Bay Road, Carbrook at the confluence of the Logan and Albert Rivers. It is on the Eastern boundary of the Logan City Council area and closely adjoins Redland Shire. It is a 5 minutes drive from the Loganholme Hyperdome, 8 minutes from Redland Bay, and 15 minutes from Capalaba.

The property totals 92.83 hectares, of which the golf course, including the clubhouse, buggy shed, workshop, and carpark are built on approximately 40 hectares. The balance is a combination Practice Range, Lakes, and unused land.

The golf course is of genuine championship standard: being 18 holes, Par 71, ACR 72 and 6127 metres in length.

The club has a resident Professional, Teaching Professional, and Trainee operating from a well stocked shop. There is a fleet of near new electric Golf Carts for hire at reasonable rates and there is a Driving Range which is free to members, and a warm-up practice nets facility.

The modest but modern clubhouse overlooks the course and adjacent lakes and members and social players can enjoy a drink before or after their round on the outdoor deck overlooking the lake, or test their luck on the gaming machines if they wish. The Bistro is open 7 days with meals 4 days and snacks the other 3. Espresso coffee is available at the bar.

“Play and stay” at Metro Hotel Tower Mill – Call the Hotel on 07 3832 1421 for more information.

Metro Hotel Tower Mill's General Manager, Allan Hilt

Brisbane's Carbrook Golf Course - Metro Hotels

The History of Metro Inn Miranda - Metro Hotels

2012-02-08T16:47:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, April 9, 1975 the Leader published an article about the near completion of a new, six storey commercial complex called the Kingsway Forum.

Now, 37 years later, the Kingsway Forum is better known as the Metro Inn Miranda, conveniently located adjacent to the Miranda Fair Shopping complex.

Originally called the Sunset Motor Inn, the motel has been managed by Transmetro Corporation since 1976 under the name Metro Inn Miranda.

Over the past three decades, the Forum at 522 Kingsway, Miranda has undergone some amazing transitions.

Many will still remember the movie theatre that originally occupied the lower levels. Miranda locals spent many a Saturday night eating popcorn and watching films while the motel guests loved having the movies right at their door-step.

After the movie theatre closed down, there have been fruit shops, electoral offices, a supermarket, hobby shop, a dentist, solicitors, a beauty therapist, screen printers and gyms that have all occupied various spaces in the void left by the movie theatre.

While the top floor of the building has seen function centres, restaurants and until recently, a finance company.

Throughout all the different businesses that have come and gone, the Metro Inn Miranda has stayed strong, reflecting the need for accommodation as more and more people are drawn to the Shire.

Family functions, medical appointments, business conferences and corporate training are some of the main reasons for travel to the Sutherland Shire and the Metro Inn Miranda has noticed an increase in demand over the past 3 years.

Still maintaining the 40 rooms it started with, the Metro Inn Miranda was heavily booked most of the time and making a reservation in advance was imperative.

"Accommodation in the Shire is limited and more rooms were needed so when the opportunity came up to take over the top floor, we took the advantage" says Dale Harlick, the Manager of the Metro Inn Miranda.

Over the past few months, renovations have been underway turning an office space into 14 brand new rooms. With spectacular views from the over-sized windows the new Superior floor is a beautiful addition to the Metro Inn Miranda.

The modern and tastefully decorated rooms offer a level of comfort and quality without the hefty prices you may pay in the city.

Complementing the family rooms and standard rooms on the existing floors, many of the new premier rooms have been thoughtfully designed with disabled access and adjoining rooms.

With the addition of the Superior floor, a new era has been ushered in and the name of the iconic property is scheduled to be changed to Metro Hotel Miranda.

Even with a change of name, the hospitality, service and dedication to excellence that the staff and management strive for will always be impressive, helping visitors experience the magic of the Sutherland Shire.

The History of Metro Inn Miranda - Metro Hotels

Australia Hotels and Pubs: Metro Hotels Staff at AIME 2011

2012-02-01T15:26:00.000-08:00

Tourism QLD hosted a wine & tapas evening at the Sotano Bar on the first evening of AIME 2011. Anthony Hayes, CEO Tourism Queensland shared that the new incentive travel promotion following on from the very successful "World's Greatest Job", will be launched in 6-8 weeks when the "dust has settled" from the recent issues to hit their state.

Australia Hotels and Pubs: Metro Hotels Staff at AIME 2011

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Travelzoo Aspire Hotel Sydney Accommodation Sydney

2011-12-20T21:08:00.000-08:00

Hotel prices in Sydney can reach well above $200 per night, but Travelzoo has negotiated a deal available all the way to December next year at Aspire Hotel Sydney for just $89 per night.

Saving 40% off regular rates in a Standard Room, you’ll also receive:

A bottle of wine on arrival
Late checkout of 12pm
Parking discount of just $12 per day (usually $25).

Aspire Hotel Sydney is located in Ultimo, only a few minutes' walk from Darling Harbour, Chinatown and the Entertainment Centre. Standard rooms feature private balconies, individually controlled air-conditioning and tea and coffee making facilities.

Valid for Sunday to Thursday stays until 25 December, 2012. Fridays and Saturdays are just $10 more per night.

Book by 4 January, 2012.

Blackout dates: 30-31 December; 1-5, 20-31 January; 1-5, 25 February; 1-3, 15-17 March; 9-11 June; 10-11 August; 14-15, 28-30 September; 30 November; 1 December, 2012

View this special offer at Travelzoo.com.au

Click here to book online at Aspire Hotel Sydney

View the Offical Aspire Hotel Sydney Website

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Travelzoo Aspire Hotel Sydney Accommodation Sydney

Metro Hotel Tower Mill, Brisbane: Metro Hotel Tower Mill -Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence

2011-11-27T16:46:00.000-08:00

Metro Hotel Tower Mill was recently awarded Trip Advisor's Certificate of Excellence for the year of 2011
Metro Hotel Tower Mill has achieved a tridAdvisor Rating of 4 Stars out of 5 stars by its guests and therefore has been awarded a certificate of excellence for the year 2011 presented by the president for trip advisor business Christine Petersen.

View the Offical Metro Hotel Tower Mill Website

Metro Hotel Tower Mill -Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence

Sydney Lord Mayors Christmas Reception, Aspire Hotel Sydney's Ricky Risal in Attendance

2011-11-27T15:52:00.000-08:00

Aspire Hotel Sydney's General Manager Ricky Risal was in Attendance at the Lord Mayor of Sydney's Christmas Reception
Ricky Risal (Aspire Hotel Sydney General Manager) with Lord Mayor of Sydney - Clover Moore

Invitiation for the 2011 Christmas Reception

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Sydney Lord Mayors Christmas Reception, Aspire Hotel Sydney's Ricky Risal in Attendance

Ipswich Events: Crowds Enjoy Cup Day at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

2011-11-01T21:21:00.000-07:00

Crowds Enjoy Cup Day at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

IPSWICH was party central on Melbourne Cup day yesterday, with the city's major venues turning on a day to remember for race fans.

The reaction of North Booval's Tracey Mullin in Brothers Leagues Club was a giveaway that she had won big on Dunaden in the Melbourne Cup. How much she won was a morsel of information Ms Mullin wasn't prepared to share.

Enjoying the Melbourne Cup lunch at the Metro Hotel Ipswich International are (from left) Katrina Johnson, of Deebing Heights, Alex Mackey, of Burbank, and Emily Wonka.

"I won last year fairly big and someone stole the money from me, so I'm going to keep how much I won to myself," she grinned.

"It is the only time of the year that I bet. The dresses are fantastic and the atmosphere is fantastic. Everyone is here for a good time.

"I've had a ball ... great company and great food."

Ms Mullin said she sensed there was less money being bet by patrons this year.

"I think people are betting less this year. They are a bit more conservative this year and maybe a bit unsure," she said.

Friends Virginia Fenwick and Duane Cleary were both also celebrating cup wins on Dunaden at Brothers Leagues Club when the QT visited.

Mr Cleary was celebrating a 100% record for the day.

"I only bought one ticket ... and I won," he said.

"Now we'll go and see how much I've won. It is all about having a bit of fun."

Ms Fenwick said she didn't have time to study the form but liked the look of number three (Dunaden).

With a few tickets in her hand it looked as though she was set for a few more handy wins on a day she had marked down on the calendar.

"Melbourne Cup, everyone stops for it. I'm having a great day," she said.

Dunaden's jockey, Christophe Lemaire, had arrived in Australia 24 hours before the race after Craig Williams lost an appeal to keep the ride.

He shed tears when judges told him the verdict.

"It's incredible - it's a great moment for me," Lemaire said.

"I was a bit anxious. I knew it was very close.

"I feel very sorry for Craig. He's a good friend of mine."

Dunaden edged out England's Red Cadeaux by the smallest margin in the $6.2 million race.

It was the closest finish in the 151-year history of the race, with German horse Lucas Cranach completing an international trifecta. Americain, the 2010 winner, started favourite and finished fourth.

Crowds Enjoy Cup Day at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Hi im Karin - The Aspire Hotel Sydney Intern

2011-10-23T17:32:00.000-07:00

Ninety days ago, I flew into Australia for 6 months. Three months have passed and I am writing this article about myself and my great life in Australia.

My name is Karin Lodewijks and I am a 19 years old girl from the Netherlands, studying Hotel and Event Management. Currently I am doing my internship at Aspire Hotel Sydney for 5 months.

After so much thinking, talking and saving my money, December last year I decided to come to Sydney for six months. First of all, I came here for my internship (of course) but secondly, because of the culture, the beautiful landscapes and the kindness, peacefulness and the hospitality of the people who live here. My thoughts and wishes came true and I am having a wonderful time in Sydney.

At this moment I am living in Bondi Junction and every weekday I am travelling to Ultimo to work at Aspire Hotel Sydney. During the months I have been here now, I brought the things I have learned at school into practice and I have gained a lot of working experience. It is really interesting to see how all the different departments work and communicate together, but at the same time are trying to reach their own goals. I already have had a look at some different departments such as housekeeping, reservations and sales and marketing but most of time has been spent with the front desk team. After my time at the Aspire, I hope I will find a position that suits me the best within the hotel industry.

During the weekends I am trying to see a lot of different things in Sydney and the surrounding areas and enjoying the different climate. It is really strange for me as a Dutch girl to celebrate Christmas and the New Years period in sunny Sydney. But I am looking forward to it. When my internship is finished, I am going to travel around Australia and I would like to go to New Zealand. I am so excited!

Time is flying - in 3 months I will have to go back to the Netherlands. But before that, I am enjoying and living the good life ‘Down Under’.

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Hi im Karin - The Aspire Hotel Sydney Intern

Metro Hotel Tower Mill, Brisbane: Metro Hotel Tower Mill has Wi Fi and NEW TV'S!

2011-10-04T22:39:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel Tower Mill Brisbane has upgraded its Internet to “Wireless / Wi-Fi Hotspot” through out the property, charged to your room account, packages available including FOC Internet book through Metro Hotels website.

Metro Hotel Tower Mill Brisbane has also completed a full installation of 32 inch LCD Televisions in all the rooms.

Metro Hotel Tower Mill, Brisbane: Metro Hotel Tower Mill has Wi Fi and NEW TV'S!

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Letter from a Happy Guest of Aspire Hotel Sydney

2011-09-28T21:03:00.000-07:00

Letter from a happy guest of Aspire Hotel Sydney

Dear Aspire;

Thankyou so much for providing us with the room for two nights at Aspire Ultimo two weeks ago. We had a fantastic weekend and the motel was in such a perfect postition to access the city and in particular China town.

The room though starting to show some age was clean, very quiet and an extremely comfy bed. Just up the road was a great little cafe where we had breakfast both mornings. We loved the convenience and ease of driving in and being able to leave the car for the two nights and walk to all the night spots - we had a great meal late on Friday night in China Town.

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Letter from a Happy Guest of Aspire Hotel Sydney

Metro Hotel Ipswich International: Bremmer State High School film Commercial at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

2011-09-27T23:14:00.000-07:00

Pictures taken at Metro Hotel Ipswich International who gave students from Bremmer State High School the oppertunity to filming commercial for a Digital Photo Frame on Premises.

See Images below:

Metro Hotel Ipswich International: Bremmer State High School film Commercial at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

Metro Hotel Perth: Management Team of the Year at the AHA Accommodation Hotel Industry Awards for Western Australia

2011-09-20T23:28:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel Perth General Manager, Cheryle Irvin (holding award) and Metro Hospitality Group Chief Operations Officer, Mr George Bedwani (4^th from the right) along with the team from Metro Hotel Perth excitedly displaying their award for Management Team of the Year at the AHA Accommodation Hotel Industry Awards for Western Australia recently held at the Burswood Hotel complex in Perth.

Metro Hotel Perth: Management Team of the Year at the AHA Accommodation Hotel Industry Awards for Western Australia

2011 Local Government Association of Tasmania Annual Conference and Trade Show

2011-09-18T20:54:00.000-07:00

Recently, Metro Hotels exhibited at the 2011 Local Government Association of Tasmania Annual Conference and Trade Show.

According to Richard Amour, Business Development Manager for Metro Hotels, “the local sector is a very important source of business for our properties and we have noticed a significant growth in the number of local government personnel and elected officials staying in our properties throughout Australia in the past twelve months.”

A major reason for this may be the desire for local government personnel to find an affordable, well located hotel, motel or serviced apartment when they are travelling on business.

Mr Amour is pictured above with a delegate at the conference in Tasmania.

Sydney Conferences: Special Conferencing Offers from Metro Hotels

2011-09-14T22:46:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

Metro Hotels is offering EventConnect.com subscribers some exclusive meetings and conferencing offers from a selection of their conveniently located venues around Australia.

In addition, by entering the Metro 123 booking code when you book your accommodation on their website, Metro Hotels will offer a further 10% discount to their best available rate for the day!

Sydney Conferences: Special Conferencing Offers from Metro Hotels

Australian Business Travellers - Not So Keen To Be Green (If It Costs) Despite Having Largest Travel Budgets in Asia Pacific

2011-08-10T18:10:00.000-07:00

Business travel research highlights differences between corporate ‘road-warriors’ from eight Asia Pacific countries

Australia might portray itself internationally as a leader in environmental commitment, but a new business travel survey shows that if this translates into paying extra to stay in an environmentally-sensitive hotel, Australian corporate road-warriors appear to be more mean than green.

The Accor Asia Pacific Business Traveller Survey 2011 shows that out of the 10,437 respondents, Australian business travelers were the second least-inclined to pay more for a credentialed “green” hotel. This was despite the fact that Australians had the largest and least-restricted travel budgets in Asia Pacific.

The research, conducted by leading Asia Pacific research consultancy Cimigo Ltd, surveyed members of Accor’s A|Club loyalty programme from eight destinations: Australia, China, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Singapore, New Zealand and Thailand. Accor is Australia’s largest hotel group with over 150 hotels under brands including Sofitel, Pullman, Novotel, Mercure, All Seasons and Ibis.

Highlights of the research findings include:

Australians more likely to be mean, than green – when asked whether they would choose a hotel above others simply because it was more environmentally conscious, Australian corporate travelers were the least likely to show their green colours, and only 38% of Australians said they would be prepared to pay more to stay at a conspicuously green hotel. This compares with 91% of Chinese, 67% of Indonesians and 62% of Indians. Females were by far more committed to the green cause than their male counterparts, with 42% of females (compared to 32% males) prepared to pay more.

Australians had the largest hotel travel allowance in the Asia Pacific region – Australians had an average of US$158 allowance to spend on their nightly accommodation, almost 20% higher than business travelers from any of the other seven countries surveyed. Travellers from Australia are also likely to have ‘no defined allowance’ for business travel.

Location and familiarity come well before price in determining choice of hotel – while location was the primary reason for travelers from all Asia Pacific countries selecting a hotel, Australians placed higher importance on location (56%) and familiarity with the hotel/brand well ahead of price.

Corporate travelers increasingly want ‘quality’ internet access above merely free internet access – internet access was high on the list of ‘preferred’ services for the overwhelming majority of respondents, but increasingly corporate travelers are seeking ‘quality’ download speeds rather than just free (slower) internet. They want to be able to work fast and efficiently, and many will pay a “reasonable” amount for the service. Others just want to answer emails and print out airline tickets, which is why a large number of Accor hotels have introduced free internet stations in the lobby areas

Technology is king for the ‘hotel of the future’ – at least for Australians. Online check-in and check-out were key demands of the ‘hotel of the future’ as far as Australian corporate travelers were concerned. Smartphone in-room access and online booking for hotel facilities were considered far more important than fully personalised services, which was a higher priority for most Asian business travelers

Australians less likely to work in hotel rooms during business trips – Where as 82% of Chinese and Singaporean corporate travelers will work in the hotel during their international business trips, only 72% of Australians said they worked at the hotel during trips. This is possibly because Australians are more likely to travel overseas for “conventions’ and “trade shows”, rather than the more direct sales missions undertaken by Chinese and Singaporeans.

Australian corporate travelers plan less business travel in the next 6 months – not surprisingly Chinese business travelers are way out in front in terms of projected business travel, where as Australian corporate travelers anticipate marginally less travel in the second half of 2011 compared to the first six months

The 21st century doesn’t seem to have changed the inequality between the sexes in terms of business travel – if there was one area of agreement across the eight countries surveyed it was that the boys club was alive and thriving in 2011. In each market, the majority of respondents were male, especially in India, where female business travellers were a significant minority. The discrepancy might be higher in Asia – eg 93% vs 7% male vs female in India – but Hong Kong and Thailand had the highest incidence of female business travelers, while there was a major imbalance in Australian corporate travelers: 71% males and just 29% females.

“While some of the results could have been predicted, there were other areas that showed marked differences in business travel habits and preferences depending on the respondent’s country of origin,” said Evan Lewis, Vice President Communications for Accor Asia Pacific.

“It would seem that most companies in most countries – apart from China – are cautious about business travel in the second half of the year, with no discernible rise in trips planned. Short-haul international trips such as intra-Asia or trans-Tasman were nominated as the most likely journeys.

“The survey found that business travelers in Asia Pacific were increasingly ‘environmentally aware’ but travelers from Asia were far more likely to put their money where their convictions were when it came to supporting environmentally-friendly hotels. This is possibly because in Asia environmental awareness is a newer phenomenon than in Australia, where the current carbon tax debate may have led to greater environmental apathy towards paying more for supporting green hotels. Having said that our Mercure hotels’ carbon-neutral conferencing has proved extremely popular, and the difference in the survey findings between Australia and Asia may be because travelers expect hotels to be environmentally conscious and don’t think they need to pay for that. Female travelers across the region were more environmentally driven than their male counterparts.

“The question of internet access remains a contentious one. Many hotels across the region now offer limited free internet access, which does satisfy the needs of a large number of travelers, but for corporate travellers who need to work in their rooms, prepare reports or presentations or download large attachments, the issue is more of speed and capacity. They are prepared to pay if the capacity is high and speed fast. The importance of the net is also being reflected in Australia with many companies now negotiating ‘bed and broadband’ deals in preference to ‘bed and breakfast’, though it would appear from our research that Asian business travelers believe they work harder while on the road than Australians.

“With over 10,000 respondents to the survey it was a surprise to find that business travel was still so comprehensively dominated by male road-warriors. Whether that has been exacerbated by the GFC is hard to know, but the discrepancy does not appear to have narrowed all that significantly in recent years, despite all the efforts made.”

Sydney Fireworks Darling Harbour

2011-08-07T17:48:00.001-07:00

Sydney Fireworks Darling Harbour, a set on Flickr.

Sydney Tourism News and Information: Fireworks at Darling Harbour Sydney on Saturday the 6th August 2011

Housekeeping – Could You Do It?

2011-08-04T22:17:00.000-07:00

It's no surprise to me that another survey has just recently come out that confirms that a guest’s number one priority in a hotel is cleanliness.

Sure, free Internet and complimentary coffee is nice, and everyone appreciates a great bed with lush linens but none of it matters if your room is not clean; if you look over at your beautiful bed and it does not immediately say "clean" to you, and I admit, I like it when my room smells fresh and clean as well.

And who is responsible for delivering on this imperative unspoken promise of cleanliness? A dedicated group, made up mostly of women, who are responsible for cleaning an industry average of 15 rooms a day, each expected to exemplify, without exception, your company's commitment to cleanliness. And yet, I find all too frequently that the housekeeping staff are largely taken for granted. Maybe it's because they are largely not seen in the operation, in the same way that front office, bell and concièrge staff are.

I've always had a soft spot for the housekeeping staff, especially the room attendants.

Maybe it's because I worked during a strike many, many years ago when I was first starting out in the industry and when the housekeeping staff first walked off the job; we were expecting a full house and as a result, the managers on duty had hundreds of rooms to clean. I remember distinctly because I myself cleaned about 40 rooms during the next 16 hours after the strike broke out and I have never worked so hard.

I don't know if that's what it was, I never thought about it specifically, I just know that one of the habits that I seem to have adopted early in my career that has stayed with me to this day is regularly walking the floors, from top to bottom, stopping at every room where the room attendant is working to chat for a few moments, see how their day is going, if there was anything that they needed, and so on.

Periodically, I would walk the floors with the director of human resources, on particularly hot days, and the director of human resources and I would hand out ice cream bars or bottles of cold water. The team was always so appreciative whenever we would do this.

But really, think about it, could you clean 15 rooms a day, in an eight hour shift, every day and clean them impeccably and to the standards that are required? Not me. I have cleaned rooms on several other occasions since that strike in the early days of my career and I am always struck with the same thought - how do they do it, every day, consistently and impeccably, and with a smile on their face and a warm and welcoming demeanour?

Everyone works hard in an accommodation business, there is no denying it, but if for whatever reason you don't find yourself in the heart of the house with any frequency, recognising your unsung heroes, make a point of doing so today.

After all, these are the people consistently delivering on your brand promise, even when no one is looking, and a little encouragement goes a long way.

By Dale Dyck

Great Value Whale Tour Package at Metro Inn Albany - Metro Hotels

2011-08-04T16:45:00.000-07:00

Discover Albany with a relaxing holiday break at Metro Inn Albany, an ideal accommodation choice for value-conscious families and couples visiting Albany. Metro Inn Albany is offering a great value Whale Tour Package* for $330 which includes:

2 night's accommodation for two people in a double room
continental breakfast daily
whale tour for 2 adults
complimentary glass of wine or beer when dining in Metro Inn Albany's restaurant
Valid August 1st - September 30, 2011

Great Value Whale Tour Package at Metro Inn Albany - Metro Hotels

Free Internet Package at Metro Hotel on Pitt @ Metro Hotel on Pitt - Metro Hotels

2011-08-02T16:42:00.000-07:00

Book a Superior Deluxe Queen or Twin Room at Metro Hotel on Pitt to receive 24 hours of FREE broadband internet.

Free Internet Package at Metro Hotel on Pitt @ Metro Hotel on Pitt - Metro Hotels

Like Metro Hotels on Facebook

2011-07-31T19:33:00.000-07:00

Become a Metro Hotels Liker.. Like Metro Hotels on Facebook for all the latest news and information, also specials and accommodation packages

What's On Ryde: Multiple Night Stay Packages at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

2011-07-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

Metro Inn Ryde is offering the following Multiple Night Stay Packages:

Minimum 2 night Stay Discount:

$5 off per night
Available on Queen, Twin & Family Rooms
Stay for a minimum of 2 nights to receive $5 off the Best Available Rate per night!
Minimum 4 night Stay Discount:

$10 off per night
Available on Queen, Twin & Family Rooms
Stay for a minimum of 4 nights @ receive $10 off the Best Available Rate per night!
Minimum 6 night Stay Discount:

$15 off per night
Available on Queen & Twin Rooms
Stay for a minimum of 6 nights @ receive $15 off the Best Available Rate per night!

What's On Ryde: Multiple Night Stay Packages at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney: Chill Out in Sydney with Metro Hotel on Pitt

2011-07-27T17:10:00.000-07:00

Warm up this winter at the Metro Hotel on Pitt

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney: Chill Out in Sydney with Metro Hotel on Pitt

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Aspire Hotel Sydney - Special available through Travelzoo for $89.00

2011-07-26T22:45:00.000-07:00

See travelzoo special for the Aspire Hotel Sydney - For $89.00 stay at this 3.5 Star Hotel near the Sydney CBD including Wine, up to 36% Off

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Aspire Hotel Sydney - Special available through Travelzoo for $89.00

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney: A Smart Idea for Hungry Hotel Guests

2011-07-21T16:43:00.000-07:00

Have you ever stayed at a hotel and wanted a drink but it was late, the bar is closed and you didn't want to pay the hefty room-service charges for a beer or wine?

Metro Hotel on Pitt has provided their guests with the answer - the Smart Bar

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney: A Smart Idea for Hungry Hotel Guests

New Managers appointed to Dugong Beach Resort - Metro Hotels

2011-07-20T19:26:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotels, the accommodation division of Transmetro Corporation Limited’s Metro Hospitality Group, has appointed husband and wife team, Dennis and Louise Winchester, to manage its resort property Dugong Beach Resort in Groote Eylandt, Northern Territory.

Dennis Winchester has over 30 years management experience in both international hotel groups such as Hyatt International and as a hotel owner in New Zealand. Dennis was also senior General Manager for Peppers Hotel Group in Australia and was involved in the restructuring of the Group. Throughout his career, Dennis was chairman of the Queenstown Promotion Board New Zealand.

New Managers appointed to Dugong Beach Resort - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney: The Front Desk Staff at Metro Hotel on Pitt

2011-07-20T18:11:00.001-07:00

The staff at Metro Hotel on Pitt look forward to welcoming you the next time you stay in Sydney.

Pictured are Daniel Pearce - Senior Duty Manager, Lorena Vazquez - Duty Manager and Manish Rajbhandari - Duty Manager

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney: The Front Desk Staff at Metro Hotel on Pitt

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney: The Front Desk Staff at Metro Hotel on Pitt

2011-07-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel Ipswich International – the Perfect Venue for Corporate Social Functions - Metro Hotels

2011-07-14T21:48:00.000-07:00

The end of the calendar year is a great time for businesses to celebrate their successes with clients and staff, and Metro Hotel Ipswich International is making it easy with several exciting social event packages.

Knowing that businesses want access to events that are well organised; provide excellent value for money; will impress staff and clients alike; and offer a good opportunity for networking, Metro Hotel Ipswich International has designed three unique packages around popular end-of-year events.

Read on at Metro Hotels News

Metro Hotel Ipswich International – the Perfect Venue for Corporate Social Functions - Metro Hotels

Travellers Save Even More with Metro Hotels web Site - Metro Hotels

2011-07-04T18:56:00.000-07:00

Travellers Save Even More with Metro Hotels web Site - Metro Hotels

2011-06-30T21:03:00.000-07:00

Travellers Save Even More with Metro Hotels web Site - Metro Hotels

Sydney Hotel Reviews: Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Sydney Hotel Guest Reviews

2011-06-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

Sydney Hotel Reviews: Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Sydney Hotel Guest Reviews

Aspire Hotel Sydney

2011-06-06T23:19:00.001-07:00

Aspire Hotel Sydney, a set on Flickr.

Images of Aspire Hotel Sydney from Metro Hotels

How to Book using Metro 123 - Discounted Accommodation with Metro Hotels

2011-06-06T22:25:00.000-07:00

Save 10% More on your Accommodation

Metro Hotels are offering an additional 10% off the Best Available Rate.

This additional discount is exclusive to Metro123 members. To access these rates simply log on to www.MetroHotels.com.au and enter the booking code METRO123 To receive the additional discount.

Bookings can only be made using the unique booking code stated above to receive this discount.

In light of today’s current economic climate accommodation rates are at their lowest. Why not
enjoy an even greater discount by simply booking on the Metro Hotels Web Site!

How To Book Online And Receive your 10% Discount

1.  Just log on to www.MetroHotels.com.au
2. Go to MAKE A RESERVATION on the left hand panel of the website
3.  Select the property you wish to stay at and your date of stay
4.  Enter METRO123 in the Booking Code section and then make your booking.

No Booking fees or credit card surcharges apply for bookings made through the Metro Hotels Web Site.

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney: Nearby Car Parking - Metro Hotel on Pitt

2011-06-06T19:30:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney: Nearby Car Parking - Metro Hotel on Pitt

Metro Hotel Sydney Central: Nearby Parking - Metro Hotel Sydney Central Map

2011-06-06T18:21:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel Sydney Central: Nearby Parking - Metro Hotel Sydney Central Map

Metro Hotel Ipswich International promotes a Career in hospitality - Metro Hotels

2011-06-05T21:31:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel Ipswich International promotes a Career in hospitality - Metro Hotels

10% Off our Best Available Rate at Metro Hotels

2011-05-26T23:01:00.000-07:00

Book Accommodation direct through Metro Hotels using these booking coodes to receive 10% Off our Best Available Rate. This offer is only available when booking direct at Metro Hotels

www.MetroHotels.com.au

Find Metro Hotels Properties on Facebook

2011-05-25T19:43:00.000-07:00

Find Metro Hotels on Facebook, Like the Metro Hotels Property Pages to recieve regular updates about special offers and discounts, also property information and special events

Metro Hotels www.facebook.com/metrohotels
Metro Hotel Sydney Central www.facebook.com/metrohotelsydneycentral
Metro hotel on Pitt www.facebook.com/metrohotelonpitt
Aspire Hotel Sydney www.facebook.com/aspirehotelsydney
Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour www.facebook.com/metroapartmentsdarlingharbour
Metro Inn Miranda www.facebook/metroinnmiranda
Metro Inn Ryde www.facebook.com/metroinnryde
Metro Hotel Perth www.facebook.com/metrohotelperth
Metro Hotel Tower Mill www.facebook.com/metrohoteltowermill
Metro Apartments on Bank Place www.facebook.com/metroapartmentsbankplace
Metro Hotel Ipswich International www.facebook.com/metrohotelipswichinternational
Metro Hotel & Apartments Gladstone www.facebook.com/metrohotelandapartmentsgladstone
Metro Inn Albany www.facebook.com/metroinnalbany
Dugong Beach Resort www.facebook.com/dugongbeachresort

www.MetroHotels.com.au

Ipswich Tourism

2011-05-17T19:23:00.001-07:00

Ipswich Tourism, a set on Flickr.

Images of Ipswich Tourism Hot Spots

Movie Night Special at Metro Hotel on Pitt @ Metro Hotel on Pitt - Metro Hotels

2011-05-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

Movie Night Special at Metro Hotel on Pitt @ Metro Hotel on Pitt - Metro Hotels

Sydney Tourism News and Information: $99 -- Sydney Hotel nr Darling Harbour w/Upgrade*

2011-04-27T18:58:00.000-07:00

Sydney Tourism News and Information: $99 -- Sydney Hotel nr Darling Harbour w/Upgrade*

Sydney CBD Hotels (Tourist and Visitor Information and Events): Mary Poppins Takes Off

2011-04-26T17:38:00.000-07:00

Sydney CBD Hotels (Tourist and Visitor Information and Events): Mary Poppins Takes Off

metrohotels1's photostream

2011-04-12T22:39:00.001-07:00

metrohotels1's photostream on Flickr.

New Images from Metro Hotels - Metro Hotels on FaceBook

Metro Hotel Sydney Central: $105 -- Metro Hotel Central Sydney w/Upgrade & Late Checkout*

2011-04-12T22:28:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel Sydney Central: $105 -- Metro Hotel Central Sydney w/Upgrade & Late Checkout*

Metro Hotels Employment Opportunites: Reservations Manager for Metro Hotel Ipswich International.

2011-04-12T21:39:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotels Employment Opportunites: Reservations Manager for Metro Hotel Ipswich International.

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Two Interns at Aspire Hotel Sydney

2011-04-11T23:09:00.000-07:00

Aspire Hotel Sydney: Two Interns at Aspire Hotel Sydney

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney

2011-04-11T19:44:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel on Pitt, Sydney

Aspire Hotel - a Tranquil Retreat in the Heart of Ultimo - Metro Hotels

2011-04-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

Aspire Hotel - a Tranquil Retreat in the Heart of Ultimo - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel Ipswich International: $89 -- 4.5-Star Hotel nr Brisbane w/Late Checkout & Parking - Metro Hotel Ipswich International

2011-04-06T16:39:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel Ipswich International: $89 -- 4.5-Star Hotel nr Brisbane w/Late Checkout & Parking - Metro Hotel Ipswich International

What's On Ipswich: Christmas in July at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

2011-04-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

What's On Ipswich: Christmas in July at Metro Hotel Ipswich International

Metro Hotel Sydney Central

2011-03-31T17:49:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel Sydney Central

Spa Room Package at Metro Apartments on Bank Place @ Metro Apartments on Bank Place - Metro Hotels

2011-03-28T22:38:00.000-07:00

Spa Room Package at Metro Apartments on Bank Place @ Metro Apartments on Bank Place - Metro Hotels

No Leave No Life Special at Metro Apartments on Bank Place @ Metro Apartments on Bank Place - Metro Hotels

2011-03-28T22:33:00.000-07:00

No Leave No Life Special at Metro Apartments on Bank Place @ Metro Apartments on Bank Place - Metro Hotels

No Leave No life Weekend City Getaway @ Metro Hotel Perth - Metro Hotels

2011-03-28T22:16:00.000-07:00

No Leave No life Weekend City Getaway @ Metro Hotel Perth - Metro Hotels

Bed and Breakfast Package at Metro Hotel and Apartments Gladstone @ Metro Hotel and Apartments Gladstone - Metro Hotels

2011-03-28T22:06:00.000-07:00

Bed and Breakfast Package at Metro Hotel and Apartments Gladstone @ Metro Hotel and Apartments Gladstone - Metro Hotels

Easter Family Package at Metro Hotel Sydney Central @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

2011-03-27T22:46:00.000-07:00

Easter Family Package at Metro Hotel Sydney Central @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

For Easter Show, Choose the Metro - Metro Hotels

2011-03-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

For Easter Show, Choose the Metro - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel on Pitt Announces Great Value Kylie-Aphrodite Package - Metro Hotels

2011-03-14T19:43:00.000-07:00

Metro Hotel on Pitt Announces Great Value Kylie-Aphrodite Package - Metro Hotels

Sydney Royal Easter Show Special at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

2011-03-03T19:19:00.000-08:00

Sydney Royal Easter Show Special at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

Metro Apartments on Bank Place, Melbourne: When staying at Metro Apartments on Bank Place, Melbourne you are never short of a wide range of dining options

2011-03-01T16:09:00.000-08:00

Metro Apartments on Bank Place, Melbourne: When staying at Metro Apartments on Bank Place, Melbourne you are never short of a wide range of dining options

Free Conference Winter Weekend Offer at Metro Hotel Perth @ Metro Hotel Perth - Metro Hotels

2011-02-27T21:16:00.000-08:00

Free Conference Winter Weekend Offer at Metro Hotel Perth @ Metro Hotel Perth - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotels Employment Opportunites: Food & Beverage Attendants - Metro Hotel Ipswich International

2011-02-21T15:01:00.000-08:00

Metro Hotels Employment Opportunites: Food & Beverage Attendants - Metro Hotel Ipswich International

Melbourne Cup Accommodation Package @ Metro Apartments on Bank Place - Metro Hotels

2011-02-17T19:51:00.000-08:00

Melbourne Cup Accommodation Package @ Metro Apartments on Bank Place - Metro Hotels

Aspire Hotel Sydney

2011-02-15T16:08:00.000-08:00

Aspire Hotel Sydney

Sydney CBD Hotels (Tourist and Visitor Information and Events): THE EARLY BIRD GETS THE WORM!

2011-02-14T17:17:00.000-08:00

Sydney CBD Hotels (Tourist and Visitor Information and Events): THE EARLY BIRD GETS THE WORM!

Metro Inn Ryde Ideal for visitors to the 2011 Sydney Royal Easter Show - Metro Hotels

2011-02-14T16:57:00.000-08:00

Metro Inn Ryde Ideal for visitors to the 2011 Sydney Royal Easter Show - Metro Hotels

Metro Inn Albany: A Midsummer Night’s Ball: Rebuilding After the Rain” a black tie benefit being put together by the Albany Community to help the victims of the devastating floods in Carnarvon, Queensland and Victoria

2011-02-14T16:30:00.000-08:00

Metro Inn Albany: A Midsummer Night’s Ball: Rebuilding After the Rain” a black tie benefit being put together by the Albany Community to help the victims of the devastating floods in Carnarvon, Queensland and Victoria

Discovery package at Metro Apartments on King @ Metro Apartments on King - Metro Hotels

2011-02-14T14:45:00.000-08:00

Discovery package at Metro Apartments on King @ Metro Apartments on King - Metro Hotels

Early Bird Special at Metro Apartments on King @ Metro Apartments on King - Metro Hotels

2011-02-14T14:39:00.000-08:00

Early Bird Special at Metro Apartments on King @ Metro Apartments on King - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel Tower Mill, Brisbane: Lovely views and conveniently located hotel - Metro Hotel Tower Mill

2011-02-13T14:19:00.000-08:00

Metro Hotel Tower Mill, Brisbane: Lovely views and conveniently located hotel - Metro Hotel Tower Mill

Chinese New Year Special at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

2011-02-10T21:20:00.000-08:00

Chinese New Year Special at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

Valentine's Weekend Pampering Package at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

2011-02-10T21:03:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Weekend Pampering Package at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

8th Night Free Deal at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

2011-02-10T21:01:00.000-08:00

8th Night Free Deal at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

Early Bird Special at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

2011-02-10T20:57:00.000-08:00

Early Bird Special at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel Ipswich International: Ipswich Flood Appeal Cocktail party at METRO HOTEL IPSWICH INTERNATIONAL

2011-02-10T14:38:00.000-08:00

Metro Hotel Ipswich International: Ipswich Flood Appeal Cocktail party at METRO HOTEL IPSWICH INTERNATIONAL

Early Bird Special at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour - Metro Hotels

2011-02-09T19:38:00.000-08:00

Early Bird Special at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel Tower Mill, Brisbane: "Great Standard of accommodation with car parking" Metro Hotel Tower Mill

2011-02-09T19:08:00.000-08:00

Metro Hotel Tower Mill, Brisbane: "Great Standard of accommodation with car parking" Metro Hotel Tower Mill

Smoke Free Australia: Did you ever smoke in a non smoking hotel room?

2011-02-09T17:06:00.000-08:00

Smoke Free Australia: Did you ever smoke in a non smoking hotel room?

Indulgence Package at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour - Metro Hotels

2011-02-09T15:29:00.000-08:00

Indulgence Package at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotels - A Diverse Spectrum of Hotel Interests - Metro Hotels

2011-02-09T15:00:00.000-08:00

Metro Hotels - A Diverse Spectrum of Hotel Interests - Metro Hotels

Romantic Escape Package at Metro Hotel on Pitt @ Metro Hotel on Pitt - Metro Hotels

2011-02-09T14:34:00.000-08:00

Romantic Escape Package at Metro Hotel on Pitt @ Metro Hotel on Pitt - Metro Hotels

No Leave No Life Special at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

2011-02-08T21:25:00.000-08:00

No Leave No Life Special at Metro Inn Ryde @ Metro Inn Ryde - Metro Hotels

No leave No Life at Metro Inn Miranda @ Metro Inn Miranda - Metro Hotels

2011-02-08T20:45:00.000-08:00

No leave No Life at Metro Inn Miranda @ Metro Inn Miranda - Metro Hotels

No Leave No Life Special at Metro Hotel Ipswich International @ Metro Hotel Ipswich International - Metro Hotels

2011-02-08T18:58:00.000-08:00

No Leave No Life Special at Metro Hotel Ipswich International @ Metro Hotel Ipswich International - Metro Hotels

Corporate Package at Metro Apartments on Bank Place @ Metro Apartments on Bank Place - Metro Hotels

2011-02-08T15:23:00.000-08:00

Corporate Package at Metro Apartments on Bank Place @ Metro Apartments on Bank Place - Metro Hotels

Year of the Rabbit Special at Metro Hotel Sydney Central @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

2011-02-08T14:39:00.000-08:00

Year of the Rabbit Special at Metro Hotel Sydney Central @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

No Leave No Life Special at Metro Hotel Sydney Central @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

2011-02-08T14:33:00.000-08:00

No Leave No Life Special at Metro Hotel Sydney Central @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

No Leave No Life Special at Aspire Hotel Sydney @ Aspire Hotel Sydney - Metro Hotels

2011-02-07T21:48:00.000-08:00

No Leave No Life Special at Aspire Hotel Sydney @ Aspire Hotel Sydney - Metro Hotels

Romantic Weekend at Miranda @ Metro Inn Miranda - Metro Hotels

2011-02-07T16:40:00.000-08:00

Romantic Weekend at Miranda @ Metro Inn Miranda - Metro Hotels

Metro Inn Miranda Corporate Package @ Metro Inn Miranda - Metro Hotels

2011-02-07T16:33:00.000-08:00

Metro Inn Miranda Corporate Package @ Metro Inn Miranda - Metro Hotels

Metro Weekender at Metro Hotel Tower Mill @ Metro Hotel Tower Mill - Metro Hotels

2011-02-06T21:35:00.000-08:00

Metro Weekender at Metro Hotel Tower Mill @ Metro Hotel Tower Mill - Metro Hotels

Dugong Beach Resort Weekend Escape Package @ Dugong Beach Resort - Metro Hotels

2011-01-24T21:39:00.000-08:00

Dugong Beach Resort Weekend Escape Package @ Dugong Beach Resort - Metro Hotels

Hotel, Apartment and Inn Accommodation Australia - Metro Hotels

2011-01-24T20:25:00.000-08:00

Hotel, Apartment and Inn Accommodation Australia - Metro Hotels

Spreading The Word, Room By Room

2011-01-23T20:53:00.000-08:00

HAD it not been for the Central Hotel in Boscobel in Wisconsin being over-booked one night in the American Autumn of 1898, the world would never have enjoyed the legacy of John H. Nicholson and Samuel E. Hill.

Nor probably have even heard of them.

But it was Messrs Nicholson and Hill who were the founding fathers of a movement that became known as the Gideons, an extraordinarily forward-thinking yet publicity-shy group of Christians who in 112 years have freely placed over 1.6-billion Bibles and New Testaments in places as diverse as 5-star hotels and condemned men’s prison cells world-wide.

But the Gideons have not been without their set-backs… when the one-billionth Bible was accepted at the White House by President George W. Bush, elaborate celebrations were marred within hours by events of the following day – September 11 2001.

John Nicholson and Samuel Hill were commercial travellers who found themselves forced to share a room in Boscobel’s Central Hotel because it was over-booked on that night in 1898.

The two quickly discovered they shared strong Christian beliefs and values, and decided to maintain contact. Gradually they brought together a fraternity of other Christians in their profession – men who spent long and lonely hours away from their families, moving from hotel room to hotel room as they flogged their wares along the highways and by-ways of America.

By July 1899 they’d formed a small group that called themselves the Gideons, and at a meeting in 1904 decided that to provide comfort for travellers in spiritual need, and to spread the word of the Bible, each man would contribute towards the cost of a Bible being placed at the Reception Desk of hotels in which they stayed.

Four years later at a convention in Louisville, Kentucky, the Gideons voted to go further than a Bible at every Reception Desk: they’d place one in every room of every hotel in America.

The first went into twenty-five rooms in a hotel in the boisterous little mining town of Superior in Montana, and were paid for by one devout Gideon supporter, Archie Bailey.

Since then 1,630,523 Bibles and New Testaments have been placed free of cost in hotels and lodging houses, at Antarctic bases and in desert military camps, aboard cruise ships, in prisons, hospitals and in nursing homes in 192 countries world-wide…

The latest countries to be included in their distribution were Kiribati in September of this year, and Madagascar in October.

Initially members of the Gideons met the costs of the Bibles and their distribution, but later Christian churches began contributing to the cause.

And in some 40-plus years that’s taken us within and without Australia more times than we care to remember, we’ve found only three hotels in Christian countries that did not have a Gideon’s Bible in their rooms.

At Cunnamulla in Queensland, a local hotelier said that while there may not be a Bible in every bedside cabinet, they did have one for every room.

“But they’re kept in the office,” she told us. “Some cattle station blokes who’d stay here on Saturday nights were tearing the pages out of our Bibles because they reckoned they made great roll-your-own smokes,” she said. “There’s now a note in rooms saying they can borrow a Bible from the office if they want.”

Our second encounter was on Vancouver Island in Canada, where our hotel GM said he’d told the Gideons they could put a Bible in every room – if they also gave the hotel a holy book for all other major religions.

“They didn’t of course. But we relented,” he said. “And while not in each room, we now we have Gideon Bibles available at Reception.”

And the third was in New York where guests at a hotel are offered a complimentary pet goldfish during their stay, but not a Gideon’s Bible. Their explanation was that “society evolves.”

The Gideons neither seek publicity nor publicly solicit funds. In Australia they distribute over 350,000 new Bibles and Testaments a year – part of a staggering 1.5-million printed in 90-langues around the world every week.

And all originating from that night 112 years ago when commercial travellers, John H. Nicholson and Samuel E. Hill were forced to share a room in an over-booked hotel.

http://www.eglobaltravelmedia.com.au/file/Spreading%20The%20Word,%20Room%20By%20Room.pdf

Metro Hotels urges Australians to visit Queensland - Metro Hotels

2011-01-20T21:18:00.000-08:00

Metro Hotels urges Australians to visit Queensland - Metro Hotels