Tag: hotel discounts

5 Incredible luxury hotels in Bali

by hotelsetc, posted in hotels, vacation

Bali is the ultimate tropical island, a beach paradise surrounded by jungle and overflowing with amazing accommodation, most especially luxury hotels with dramatic infinity pools and the highest standard of living.

Here are 5 of the most incredible luxury hotels in Bali:

The Hanging Gardens

Located in the heart of the rainforest in Ubud, the Hanging Gardens is a 5 star luxury hotel in Bali which has the added bonus of being close enough to Ubud town center to pay a visit, yet far enough away that you need not worry about the crowds. The resort has its very own spa, restaurant and bar and the accommodation itself is separated into a variety of different villas, each with their own view of either the rainforest, the temple or river.

Staff in the Hanging Gardens are particularly friendly and take care with the service provided, right down to the fine details of a rather simple cocktail. Boasting a stunning infinity pool and very private residence, the villas make it easy to avoid meeting other guests if you wish and naturally, you have room service to help make this possible. With excellent food and sensational interior for the rooms, The Hanging Gardens is an incredible luxury hotel in Bali.

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Matahari Beach Resort and Spa

Situated on the west coast of Bali, the Matahari Beach Resort is right on top of a beautiful sand lava beach and consists of 32 bungalows, each of which is just a stones throw from the water itself. Again, service is of the highest standard with this five star resort and it all begins at the airport, where you will either be picked up by a limo, or with all joking aside, a helicopter. Yes, if you wish to really splash out, you can easily rent a helicopter to take you in style to the hotel.

Each bungalow is beautifully decorated in stone or wooden detail, while outside you will find it also has its very own verranda. With a lavish bathroom and ultra comfortable bed, the rooms are literally fit for a king. Although the black sand can take some getting used to on the beach, it really is serenely beautiful and the swimming pool is simply divine. And then there is the food, the “Dewi Ramon” is a fantastic restaurant, while there is an extra special traditional kitchen on the beach itself.

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The Viceroy Bali

Considered one of the best small luxury hotels on the planet, the Viceroy is actually a series of large villas overlooking the spectacular Lembah valley. Owned and operated by an Australian couple, this magical place is precariously perched over the Petanu River valley and each bungalow boasts an impressive view of the other 24 villas with a backdrop of the most luscious kind.

Also located near Ubud (10 minutes drive), the Viceroy is ideally isolated and has one of the most stunning claims in that each bungalow has its very own garden and uniquely beautiful infinity swimming pool. Interior is naturally to the highest standard with all the latest technology and modern accessories provided, while CasCades Restaurant has fantastic food and there is an ultra luxurious spa where you can unwind even further. As far as private villas go, the Viceroy in Bali is one of the most impressive in the world.

Bulgari Resort

Uluwatu on the Southern Coast of Bali is best known for adventure seekers who take to the waves with their surfboards and the imposing temple which hangs precariously over a cliff, in a similar way to the Bulgari Resort.

Thought to be the most expensive hotel in Bali, the Bulgari Resort is so isolated that you need a driver to go anywhere, literally. Japanese, Korean, and Chinese are said to be the most common arrival in the hotel, although may tourists choose to visit this impressive hotel on day trips, such is the amazing standard of the premises.

Nestled in the jungle, each villa has its very own plunge pool and unobstructed ocean view, while the rooms themselves are overflowing with character, from the darkened wood wardrobes and marble top everything else. Bulgari resort also has a gym, yoga classes and spa so there really is no need to leave the resort unless you want to.

Komaneka at Bisma

Komaneka at Bisma

Through the luscious surroundings of rice fields and away from Ubud you will find the Komaneka resort at Bisma.

After arriving in a modern open air reception, the inside of Komaneka can seem very antique and old school, but this does not in any way take from the beautiful furnishings of both the restaurant and the rooms themselves. Everything in the rooms has a function of course, but it must be said that the interior is maybe not the most lavish on this list and Komaneka put most of their focus on the small details such as the branded soap, personalized make-up bags and a private balcony.

However, for a step up – one can rent the private villas where an incredible infinity pool awaits along with an outdoor kitchenette and a sublime stand alone hot tub.

You can find Bali hotel discounts for all the biggest and best hotels in Bali by signing up for a travel club membership with Hotels Etc.

Consumer awareness and the return of hotel discounts

by hotelsetc, posted in travel

Although the cost of a flight can be significant, the most expensive part of a vacation budget, a weekend away or long term travel is always accommodation. In fact, while most people will try to stretch their budget by eating in cheap restaurants (instead of using restaurant discounts) or cutting back on activities, when actually, the best way to make the most of a travel budget does not require you to cut back on spending money, but rather to use hotel discounts to greatly reduce the largest expense of your trip.

Consumer awareness, rate parity and the return of hotel discounts

Hotel discounts in particular have not always been the answer, for most booking engines have made cheap hotel rooms readily available for the past decade without needing them.

However, the introduction of a new law called “Rate Parity” has had a major impact on the travel industry in that these booking engines are no longer able to offer a range of prices across different distribution channels.

Most consumers are unaware of the above mentioned law, in fact most consumers are unlikely to realize the huge impact it has had on their travel plans already. Truth is, this is news that most travel brands do not want you to know, as it essentially means they can no longer offer the lowest price.

Although there is one exception to the laws of rate parity which come in the shape of travel membership clubs.
Hotel discounts

Travel clubs and hotel discounts

Travel clubs are now the missing link when it comes to finding the best hotel rates or the biggest hotel discounts. Famous in the 1970’s but deemed obsolete with the arrival of the internet, these clubs have returned to the travel industry with vigor since the arrival of the rate parity law, with the main reason that they are exempt from such restrictions.

Hotels Etc is the leading travel club in the US who negotiates huge discounts with suppliers and passes them on to members who pay a small membership fee for the privilege. Not only is it a simple process in getting signed up, but Hotels Etc also makes it extremely easy for members to simply log on, search for the hotel, vacation or discount needed, and avail of it right away.

With a reputation spanning more than 20 years, a membership base of 4 million and the largest selection of discounts online, Hotels Etc is a the first and only place you should ever need to help make your next trip a most affordable one.

Although the major travel brands are unlikely to disappear any time soon, it is only a matter of time until the consumer will learn of this new law and the huge effect it has with regard to online purchases. From this point the options are clear; you can continue to spend more money on hotel rooms at full price, or you can avail of genuine hotel discounts and pay less for the very same products or service.

You can sign up for a free trial with Hotels Etc today.

Tips for visiting Orlando with kids

by hotelsetc, posted in travel

Incredible theme parks, world class restaurants, sublime weather and endless attractions. More and more Americans are now choosing to stay domestic on their vacations and with an itinerary packed full of the above, who would argue that Orlando, Florida offers the best variety of attractions for kids and one of the best places for vacation in the US.

Here are some theme park, food and hotel tips for visiting Orlando, Florida on your next vacation:

Tips for visiting Disney World with kids

Undoubtedly one of the most famous attractions in the US, a major favorite for the kids and then surrounded by many other attractions; Disney World is a huge draw and with this popularity, it brings huge crowds.

However, why visit when the lines are so long for attractions, when the park is overcrowded and overwhelming? Visit Disney World in the shoulder months of January or September and you will not have to wait in line for hours on end, not to mention how the cost of attractions, accommodation etc are usually much lower, especially if you are using hotel discounts or theme park discounts.

Another great way to save on headaches and confusion is to pick up a Fast Pass which is essentially a reservation system.

Where to eat with kids in Orlando
It doesn’t have to be a celebration, but every visit to Cafe Tu Tu Tango will feel like one for the kids especially. Set up like a giant artistic playground and infused with fun colorful staff, this cafe pulls out all the stops as well as great food to ensure you are having the best experience.
Another great place to eat in Orlando is Press 101 which offers a very healthy option for the family with a range of soups, simple meals and fine gourmet sandwiches. And then there is Dicks Last Resort which is arguably one of the most fun eating experiences anywhere in the world; rude, obnoxious and hilarious, it is not often your server is so amusing. The food is great, the entertainment is even better and the kids will absolutely love it.
As mentioned above, the best way to save on a budget when it comes to eating out is to use restaurant discounts provided by a travel club such as Hotels Etc. These travel membership cards are available to use at most major restaurants and can also be used on hotels, theme parks, golf clubs etc.

Where to find the best hotels in Orlando

International Drive is usually the location for the most affordable accommodation in Orlando, but if you are not on a strict budget, the kids will fall in love with the Disney Properties such as any of the All Star Resorts which can be found at a reasonable price when using hotel discounts.

However, Disney’s Animals Kingdom or Disney’s Boardwalk are two of the absolute crowd favorites with an endless line of attractions on the grounds, along with the finest dining options and world class facilities.

Regardless of where you stay, the hotels in Orlando are generally to a high standard, but where children are concerned, it is always best to cut down on the travel time and stay close to the main attractions. In this sense, it is always best to use hotel discounts, restaurant discounts etc to afford the best hotels and best places to eat.

Hotels Etc is a travel membership club who offer clients hotel discounts and more in return for a minimal membership fee. You can click here to sign up for a free trial with Hotels Etc today.

5 Adventures to take on a vacation in Maui

by hotelsetc, posted in travel

While its usually ideal as part of an itinerary, not everyone wants to sit next to the pool for their entire vacation or sunbathe on the beach until the sun disappears. In fact, tour operators and suppliers have been forced to make major changes in recent years to accommodate the more adventurous travelers, who enjoy getting into the outdoors just as much as they like to sit back and relax.

In terms of variety and things to do, it would be difficult to find a location more suitable than Maui, from the mountain biking, hill climbing, white sandy beaches, rugged coastline, to the bustling towns and more secluded areas on the island.

Here are 5 adventures to take on vacation in Maui:

Visit Hana for the journey

Hana is a town approximately 5 hours drive from Maui, but the attraction of taking this route is the journey itself. Cascading waterfalls and rugged cliff tops, walking trails and sweeping views across the ocean; the route to Hana is a spectacular coastal drive and the perfect opportunity to get away from the resorts, into the outdoors and find a little secluded pocket of the island for yourself.

Naturally, this option will involve having access to a car but thankfully renting is very affordable in Maui and with car rental discounts, it can cost very little at all.

Climb to the top of Haleakala

Rising early is not an easy thing to do on vacation, especially when given the choice, but had you known the extent of watching a sun rise from the summit of Haleakala Crater, it would not even be an option.

Spectacular views surround the crater itself, but on a clear morning you can also see Big Island or even Oahu. However, as with the previous activity, climbing the crater is where the real enjoyment of this adventure will lie and watching the view become more and more dramatic the higher you climb, is an unforgettable experience.

Mountain bike down the volcano

If climbing to the top is not on your list, then taking a wild downhill mountain bike ride on Haleakala certainly should be. More than 10,000 feet of descending over 40 miles, this is ax exhilarating tour which will delight even the most extreme adventure enthusiasts.

Not only will you get to coast the entire way down the volcano, but you will also get to see the sun rise that morning before setting off, without having to climb, or get out of bed as early as before.

Take a Ziplining Adventure

Located on Haleakala and the West Maui Mountains, this Ziplining adventure offers an opportunity to escape the beaches for an afternoon and feel the rush of adrenaline in the mountains. With unrivalled views of luscious landscape and the surrounding island, Ziplining is both fun, scenic and affordable.

There are 8 different ziplines across 4 valleys, all of the guides are highly experienced and the operator has an impeccable safety standard.

Walk the Pipiwai Trail

Aside from the snorkeling, diving, windsurfing and other things to do in Maui, hiking is the ideal way to explore the island and the Pipiwai Trail is a very convenient, yet highly rewarding trail.

Through Taro fields, dense forests and across peaceful cliff top trails overlooking the ocean, the trail itself is worth the hike, but there is also an enormous reward at the end, a 400 foot cascading waterfall. Pipiwai is suitable for all levels and easily accessed, although you do need to carry all food and water for the afternoon or morning.

Vacation discounts for Maui along with car rental discounts and hotel discounts can be found on Hotels Etc.

5 Reasons you need to visit Memphis, Tennessee

by hotelsetc, posted in travel

Elvis Presley, BB King, and Jerry Lee Lewis; all legendary figures who defined the music industry of their time and iconic symbols in American history. Memphis, Tennessee is synonymous with music and famous for the above musicians who have all recorded in the town, but regardless of whether these are some of your favorite artists, Memphis still offers a perfect destination for a weekend getaway in the US and unique escape from the predictable nature of the big city.

Here are 5 reasons you need to visit Memphis, Tennessee:

Beale Street: You can finally go walking in Memphis

Bruce Springstein once sang the line about this famous street in the song “Walking  in Memphis” and simply put, Beale street offers some of the most vibrant, musical and diverse nightlife in the United States. Many bars will cater to particular musical tastes, with Jazz clubs next door to Rock n’ Roll on outdoor terraces and modern themed bars in between.

Colorful street artists fill the pedestianized street outside, while many nightclubs will stay open into the early hours of the morning. Expect Elvis impersonators, energetic shows, enthusiastic local bar staff and a headache worth having the following morning; Beale Street in Memphis is a night to remember.

Sun Studios: Immerse yourself in the most iconic studio in America

A young Elvis Presley once walked into these studios to make his very first recording, as too did Jerry Lee Lewis and many more famous musicians over the years such as U2, Van Morrison and BB King.

Sun Studios is steeped in history and while the venue is very small, it offers an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of musical history and stand in the very spot where these artists began recording. With worn black and white photographs adorning the walls and many of the original instruments and devices still in place, Sun Studios certainly makes for a unique experience.

Graceland: Visit the home of the King

Visitor often comment that you need not be an Elvis fan or interested in his music to appreciate the grandeur and importance of Graceland. Elvis truly was the King of Rock’n’Roll and one of the first  celebrities who exuded a huge and overwhelming presence.

Flash cars, diamond clad chandeliers, incredibly intriguing furniture and luxury far beyond anything existing in those times; Graceland is an intimate encounter to a place which has long left a mark on peoples live, even the most famous. When you stand in the living room and realize that Elvis once played host to the Beatles on the very sofa before your eyes, you will need no explaining what is so special about a visit to Graceland.

Food: Enjoy the taste of Southern style cooking

Golden pancakes covered in syrup for breakfast; what better way to start a day than with a hearty Southern styled breakfast?

Memphis is renowned for fine food, great coffee shops and world class restaurants. While coffee may be a good way to pass time in the afternoon, the succulent barbecued meats are a major attraction in Memphis; try Huey’s for an enormous burger or dry ribs at the Bar-B-Q Shop.

No matter what taste you may have, Memphis has a wide range of Southern style restaurants and an endless variety of foods on offer at reasonable prices.

Tip: Click here for restaurant discounts.

American History: National Civil Rights Museum

Forgetting about the music for a minute, Memphis is also the location for a much more important part of history, the Civil Rights Museum.

Highly educational, the Museum is a walk down memory lane to a time when civil rights were largely denied and then overcome. Martin Luther King is naturally very central to this movement and it is a very eye opening account of America’s social history.

While it is sometimes sad and incredibly emotional, the National Civil Rights Museum is another great reason to visit Memphis.

For hotel discounts or any other types of discounts in Memphis, get signed up for a FREE trial with Hotels Etc today.