Travel Daily | The Darling industry rates

Today, The Star revealed the first images of its new five-star boutique lifestyle hotel and spa, The Darling, which will officially open its doors on Friday 28th October, 2011. The Star also announced that it is inviting Australia’s travel trade to be among the first to experience the hotel, by offering a special introductory rate for travel agents and airline aligned tourism affiliates for two weeks, from 28 October to 11 November 2011.

The Darling Hotel and Spa, which is the first five-star new build hotel in Sydney since the 2000 Olympic Games, has 171 rooms and suites, a stunning 16 room spa, an infinity pool and is home to an exciting new contemporary Japanese restaurant and bar, Sokyo. The Darling Hotel and Spa is a key feature in the $860 million refurbishment and extension of The Star, transforming it into a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination and a strong addition to Sydney’s overall leisure landscape.

The Darling Hotel and Spa’s General Manager, Drew Schlesinger, was selected to manage the new hotel, based on his experience and success of opening and managing landmark hotels around the globe including The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa and the Mondrian Hotel Los Angeles.

The Star also commissioned renowned designers from both overseas and Australia to create the hotel and spa, who created lovingly detailed rooms where every element for the perfect stay was considered, giving an indulgent and relaxing experience for guests. Therefore, The Darling Hotel and Spa is positioned in the premium tier of the market.

From the moment guests enter The Darling Hotel and Spa, they will be met by style and sophistication. With integrated bars, lounge areas and a custom made billiard table, the lobby has been designed as a gathering point for Sydney residents and hotel guests alike, bringing the famous concept of ‘lobby socialising’ to Sydney.

Featuring floor to ceiling glass windows and boasting panoramic views of the city skyline, Harbour Bridge and out to the Blue Mountains, the boutique lifestyle hotel will offer the following rooms and suites:

• Five exclusive PENTHOUSE SUITES
The top floors of The Darling Hotel and Spa are dedicated to the ultimate in luxury, featuring two bedroom penthouse suites. The suites, uniquely designed by renowned LA designer, Lawrence Lee, feature floor-to-ceiling Sydney harbour views, bespoke furniture, fireplaces, media rooms, butler service and a private VIP arrival.

• Nine luxurious STELLAR SUITES
The luxury suites at The Darling Hotel and Spa are a ‘home away from home’ for guests, designed to be comfortable and act like a retreat, revealing a contemporary design to complement the floor to ceiling glass windows and cityscape views.

• Eight stunning ADORED SUITES
If you’re used to a life of luxury, the Adored Suites have a high end residential feel. With a footprint of 115m2, entry is via a private foyer which opens onto a spacious living room with stunning views and flows through to an intimate dining area. Doors lead to a king-size bedroom with walk-in wardrobe, a fully appointed marble bathroom and a separate powder room for guests.

• 35 spacious JEWEL SUITES
The spacious Jewel Suites have a footprint of 70m2 and offer a king-size bedroom and separate living area, complete with wet bar, which makes them perfect for entertaining.

• 113 DARLING ROOMS
The Darling Rooms have a footprint of 35m2 and include all the distinctive features of The Darling Hotel and Spa, including a custom Darling bed, rain showerhead, double sink, separate WC and Molten Brown amenities.

The Darling Hotel and Spa will be home to a luxurious day spa, set to deliver pampering to the highest levels. With 16 private rooms including a beautiful and intimate couple’s treatment room and an indulgent hamam, The Spa will be devoted to making you look incredible and feel even better.

The Spa will feature an extensive array of Asian and European inspired treatments, combining Eastern and Western techniques to not only relax but to restore physical and mental wellbeing. The spa will include a unique range of Australian made and all natural products and will be the first spa in Sydney to offer LI’TYA, a natural skin care and spa treatment range grounded in Indigenous Australian dreamtime culture that proudly radiates the Australian spirit.

Guests can also indulge their passion for food at the new Japanese restaurant Sokyo. The restaurant and bar will reside in the lobby, and brings together the tradition and energy of modern Tokyo, in both the menu and the interiors. With Nobu experience internationally, head chef Chase Kojima will showcase his unique brand of contemporary Japanese cuisine.

Special industry rate
The special rate starts at $260 in a Darling City View room. To redeem the offer, enter ‘TRAVEL’ in the promotional code field when making the booking at www.thedarling.com.au. Travel industry or affiliated industry ID must be provided on point of check in.