Exceptional destinations, outstanding value

With room rates starting from around AUD 250 a night, the Shangri-la hotel in the city of Makati is like an oasis in the vast Manila conurbation, and, considering its facilities, extraordinarily good value for money.

After a brief cab ride on a humid island day, I arrive, tired, at the Patra Bali Resort and Villas in Kuta. After checking in, I’m escorted to my room, a cool, high-ceilinged haven looking onto greenery.

After a stop-start cab ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport, my arrival in the lobby of the Shangri-La hotel Bangkok, tired after a long flight, is a palpable pleasure. At last I can relax.

Emma Bowyer, widely respected owner and Managing Director of professional conference organisers ICMS Australasia, has been involved in the events-management industry for the best part of two decades. She spoke to The Siteseer about how business is evolving as pandemic panic recedes.

In line with the zeitgeist, the City of Dreams integrated resort in the Philippines capital is demonstrating how a big, visible commitment to sustainability can help boost the bottom line.

Where can you stay for business or leisure, an hour-and-a-half’s easy drive north of Sydney, and pay between $99 and $145 a night for outstanding, functional accommodation? Accor’s Ibis chain may provide the answer, as The Siteseer discovered.