CRM

What is CRM (customer relationship management)?
CRM (customer relationship management) is an information industry term for methodologies, software, and usually Internet capabilities that help an enterprise manage customer relationships in an organized way. For example, an enterprise might build a database about its customers that described relationships in sufficient detail so that management, salespeople, people providing service, and perhaps the customer directly could access information, match customer needs with product plans and offerings, remind customers of service requirements, know what other products a customer had purchased, and so forth.

According to one industry view, CRM consists of:

• Helping an enterprise to enable its marketing departments to identify and target their best customers, manage marketing campaigns with clear goals and objectives, and generate quality leads for the sales team.
• Assisting the organization to improve telesales, account, and sales management by optimizing information shared by multiple employees, and streamlining existing processes (for example, taking orders using mobile devices)
• Allowing the formation of individualized relationships with customers, with the aim of improving customer satisfaction and maximizing profits; identifying the most profitable customers and providing them the highest level of service.
• Providing employees with the information and processes necessary to know their customers, understand their needs, and effectively build relationships between the company, its customer base, and distribution partners.

Customer Relationship Management

Aspects of CRM

There are three or more aspects of CRM, each of which can be implemented in isolation:

1. Operational CRM: The automation or support of customer processes involving sales or service representatives
2. Collaborative CRM: Direct communication with customers not involving sales or service representatives (“self service”)
3. Analytical CRM: The analysis of customer data for a broad range of purposes

Operational CRM

Operational CRM provides support to "front office" business processes / teams, including sales, marketing and service. Each interaction with a customer is generally added to a customer's contact history, and staff can retrieve and update information on customers from the database as necessary.

Data gathered on customers can be used to determine how a customer is handled. Data may include profitability, contact history and products purchased. Staff members are able to access this data when servicing customers or making a sales pitch.

Collaborative CRM

Collaborative CRM covers the direct interaction with customers. This can include a variety of channels, such as the Internet, whether through a website or e-mail, or automated telephone systems. It can generally be equated with “self service”. One of the latest trends in collaborative CRM is behavioral emarketing which is focused on building an ongoing relationship with customers through online mediums (emails, RSS Feeds, XML, Vlogs, Blogs, etc.).

The objectives of Collaborative CRM can be broad, including cost reduction and service improvements.

Analytical CRM

Analytical CRM analyzes customer data for a variety of purposes, including:

• design and execution of targeted marketing campaigns to optimize marketing effectiveness
• design and execution of specific customer campaigns, including customer acquisition, cross-selling, up-selling, retention
• analysis of customer behavior to aid product and service decision making (e.g. pricing, new product development, etc)
• management decisions, e.g. financial forecasting and customer profitability analysis
• prediction of the probability of customer defection (churn).

Analytical CRM generally makes heavy use of Predictive analytics.

Technology considerations

The technology requirements of a CRM strategy can be very complex and far reaching. The basic building blocks include:

• A database to store customer information. This can be a CRM specific database or an enterprise data warehouse.
• Operational CRM requires customer agent support software.
• Collaborative CRM requires customer interaction systems, eg an interactive website, automated phone systems etc.
• Analytical CRM requires statistical analysis software, as well as software that manages any specific marketing campaigns.
• Support CRM systems require interactive chat software to provide live help and support to web site visitors.

Privacy and Data Security

The data gathered as part of CRM must respect customer privacy and data security. Customers want the reassurance that their data will not be shared with third parties without their consent or accessed illegally by anyone.

Customers also want to benefit when their information is used by companies. For instance, an increase in unsolicited telemarketing calls is generally resented by customers while a small number of relevant offers is generally appreciated.

Customer relationship management software

Customer relationship management software is comprised of both business management and automation of the front-office divisions of an organization. CRM software is essentially meant to address the needs of Marketing, Sales and Distribution, and Customer Service and Support divisions within an organization and to allow the three to share data on prospects, customers, partners, competitors and employees. The purpose of CRM software is to manage the customer through the entire lifecycle, i.e. from prospect to qualified opportunity to order.

CRM software automates many of the needs of Marketing, Sales and Support users, such as Telephony, or the ability to conduct phone calls and manage call data, and tools to capture, share and manage automated alerts on lead data as it passes through the sales pipeline. CRM software provides a standard framework for pushing leads through a sales pipeline and managing it amongst many stakeholders in real time, in order to provide better customer relations and grow revenues by creating more sales, and losing fewer customers.

J W Marriott hotel Hong Kong Island Overview

Pacific Place is a famous locality in Hong Kong dotted with some of the best shopping and dining options. The place is also well known for another reason- the J W Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong. To call it only a hotel is less, it is the ultimate name that defines opulence and is considered as one of the best luxury hotels in Hong Kong. Their services surpass all in terms of quality and range and as such the J W Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong enjoys the undivided loyalty of the business and leisure class travelers. Professionalism and perfection in all their departments has placed the J W Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong on a high pedestal of popularity.

The J W Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong is ideally located atop the Pacific Place and thus all the 27 floors of the hotel comprising of the 577 rooms and 25 luxurious suites enjoy a breathtaking corner views of the Harbor. The rooms and suites replete with all the urban necessities of pleasure and soothing furnishings are cocoons of comfort. Other recreational amenities and facilities at the J W Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong accounts for a well equipped health club, outdoor pool.

The dining facilities at the J W Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong take you on an expedition and unravel the mysteries of Hong Kong’s culinary delights. The hotel treasures it’s six award wining restaurants with their varied menu and promises a great time dining at any one of them.

With the reputation of enjoying the Meeting’s and Conventions Magazine’s Gold Key Award for the past ten years, the J W Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong has become a trusted name in the world of business. With their flawless services, the J W Marriott Hotel in Hong Kong promises you to turn all the business meetings and conferences into a grand success.

Island Shangri-la hotel Hong Kong Island Overview

Island Shangri-la Hotel in Hong Kong is one of the well-known staying destinations for the tourists visiting the area. With 56 floors, Island Shangri-la Hotel offers spectacular view of the Victoria Harbor and leads you straight to Pacific Place, the most impressive shopping and entertainment complex in the island. With elaborate corporate facilities and luxurious services by the well-trained staff, this hotel today stands as a brand of hospitality. As soon as you land in Island Shangri-la Hotel in Hong Kong, you will be mesmerized by the sight of 700 Viennese chandeliers, Tai Ping carpets, artistic floral designs and numerous paintings and artworks. The display of a 16-story-high Chinese painting created by 40 artists from Beijing in the atrium, will grip your senses. This painting is claimed to be the largest landscape painting in the world.

In fact, while the lavishly designed rooms in Island Shangri-la Hotel in Hong Kong, will induce in you the mood of luxury, the internationally acclaimed restaurants dishing out Japanese, Cantonese, and French cuisine, will help you to have gala culinary adventures. You are bound to be impressed by the private lounge and an ancient library in the atrium. The central location of Island Shangri-la Hotel in Hong Kong also facilitates you access to the rest of the island.

Facilities of Island Shangri-la Hotel in Hong Kong

Accommodation: 565 guest rooms and suites Dining: 5 restaurants Heated pool in the outdoors Health Club Spa Jacuzzi Sauna and Steam bath Complimentary tea and fruit for welcome.

Sheraton Cesme Hotel Resort & Spa

The Spa

Combining traditional Middle Eastern treatments with European influences, the spa centre offers a staggering 41 à la carte treatments with an emphasis on anti-stress programmes. Popular anti-stress treatments include the Body Algae Wrap with seaweed paste, which is applied all over the body to nourish the body with vitamins and oligo elements.
The 2,400sq m spa centre, which is luxuriously decorated, provides guests with a truly comfortable atmosphere enhanced by soothing music and exotic plants.
For the ultimate in relaxation guests can enjoy a traditional Hammam soap massage in the Ottoman Turkish Bath, which is undoubtedly the highlight of the spa. Other features include the outdoor Thermal and Thalasso pools and the cosy treatment rooms.

Signature Treatments

• Balneo Aromatherapy
• Facial Special
• Balneo Thalassobath
• Alpha Spa
• Facial Classic
• Body Algae Treatment
• Affusion Massage
• Body Massage
  

About Sheraton Cesme Hotel, Resort & Spa

Please note the hotel will be closed for renovation from October 06 until 1st April 2007.

Cesme has a history dating back 3,000 years and is set on the most westerly tip of Turkey, surrounded on three sides by the Aegean Sea. Sheraton Cesme is located in Illica, just beside this idyllic town, famous for its natural thermal waters that have been curing people for generations. One of the most beautiful resorts in Turkey, Sheraton Cesme boasts 377 luxury rooms, 35 suites (most with stunning sea views) and three top-floor penthouses, each with its own swimming pool and large terrace. In addition it is the only international luxury hotel in Turkey with its own natural thermal spa.

Luxury Hotel Facilities

Sheraton Cesme offers the perfect location for a relaxing holiday with several first-class restaurants and the only luxury thermal spa in Turkey. The resort also boasts its own water sports centre and floodlit tennis courts, as well as children's facilities including a playground and a sports team during the summer months.
Other facilities include a cinema club, billiards, bowling, table tennis, valet and concierge services as well as a shopping arcade with several boutique-style shops.
Sheraton Cesme is the only international luxury hotel in Turkey with its own natural thermal spa, offering 41 treatments that combine traditional Middle Eastern treatments with European influences.

Room Options

Sheraton Cesme boasts 377 luxury rooms, 35 suites (most with stunning sea views) and three top-floor penthouses, each with its own swimming pool and large terrace.

Dining at Sheraton Cesme Hotel, Resort & Spa

Flavours from all the world blend in the kitchen of Sheraton Cesme: fusion specialities are offered at the rooftop Spices Restaurant, Mediterranean cuisine at the Olives Taverne and Terrace, international buffets at the Manzara Restaurant and seafood dishes at the fine dining restaurant on the beach, with magnificent views of the Aegean Sea.

Things to do in Cesme

Guests attending a conference or enjoying a summer break at the Sheraton Cesme will find a range of amenities to keep them entertained, including the onsite luxury thermal spa, with over 40 treatments combining traditional Middle Eastern therapies and European influences, and the private sandy beach.
Visitors with more time on their hands might like to try out some of the water sports available at the resort’s world-class centre, such as sailing, surfing and water-skiing.
Daily tours to Cesme city centre and to the nearby Greek island of Chios can be arranged. Groups can also book guided day tours to the world-famous Roman city of Ephesus, located 155 kilometres from the resort, or to Pamukkale’s natural chalk terraces with thermal water cascades.
Overnight trips to the ancient city of Troy are also possible.

Getting to Sheraton Cesme Hotel, Resort & Spa

Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport less than an hour away by car.

Contacts

For Hotel Bookings and Reservations:

UK: 0800 032 4254
US: 1888 222 8859
International: +1 972 894 1182

Sheraton Cesme Hotel, Resort & Spa

Sifne Caddies, 35 Ilica Cesme
Cesme, Ilica, Turkey

The Taj Mahal Hotel

Hotel Information 272 rooms, 27 suites Hotel applies tax amount based on standard daily rate for corresponding room type and not discounted rate confirmed. Summer - April to September, Winter - October to March 24 kilometers from Indira Gandhi Airport Features Banquets Business Meetings Golf High-Speed Internet Access On-Site Fitness Center On-Site Pool Spa Cards Accepted American Express Diners Club MasterCard Visa	The Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi is one of the most distinguished addresses in the national capital. It is located in the exclusive residential area of Lutyens’ Delhi, close to the seat of government and minutes away from the bustling city center.Graceful Mughal architecture blends aesthetically with modern facilities. The Taj Mahal Hotel,is a veritable showcase of artefacts of the Mughal era. The warm, pristine white lobby of The Taj is woven with intricate motifs, golden inlay work, niche’s from ‘Shahjahanabad’, the erstwhile mogul capital, all adding a sense of timelessness to the interiors. The art and design work are perfectly complimented with calm marble fountain streams reminiscent of those times. The hotel's most recent introduction has been the Grande Presidential Suite with hi-security, host to various Heads of State and CEO visits. The Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi offers restaurants that are known as dining destinations of the capital. Machan-24-hour international eatery offering world cuisine. The House of Ming- Delhi’s original Cantonese and Sichuan restaurant. The Grill Room -Situated on the rooftop combines panoramic views of Lutyens’Delhi with the specialties of the French chef. "Haveli"- The Indian restaurant presents the rich heritage of north Indian cuisines. Ideal setting for a business lunch or dinner. Emperor’s Lounge -A lounge serving high tea and a selection of coffees. Ricks’ - The city's most eclectic lounge bar serving innovative cocktails and a novel wokkerie menu from the Orient. The hotel offers several options to unwind after that critical business meeting or a day out in the city. Tejas-the Wellness Spa at the hotel offers traditional Indian treatments, therapies and day packages based on Ayurveda and Aromatherapy. Indulge in specialty “Abhyangam” and “Shirodhara” treatments.Advance booking required. Fitness- An energizing session in the 24-hour gymnasium promises to refresh and tone the spirit. A dip in the pool or wet spa are other options.Golf or Tennis can be arranged on request. Salon-Choice of facials, hair styling and hand and foot treatment options. Arcade-‘Khazana’ for authentic Indian buys.Mont Blanc Showroom for leather items and accessories. Business center. Banquet and conference facilities. Club floors. Shopping arcade. Fully air-conditioned.

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok

Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok
Offering convenient facilities, the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok provides exquisite accommodation and gracious hospitality. Location Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok is strategically located in the corporate, diplomatic and shopping heart of Bangkok's bustling core. Rooms The hotel features 340 luxurious guestrooms, including suites and unique garden cabanas, equipped with a host of modern amenities. Restaurant The Madison is a tasteful, contemporary steak house, which is an addition to the hotel's dining options. Serving a diverse selection of innovative dishes, including fresh seafood, the steak house features an open kitchen, a charcoal grill and a private dining room for up to 16 people. In addition to this, it also provides a wide variety of fine wine and single-malt whiskey. General Traditional Thai architecture, intricate artwork, an impressively scaled lobby and glorious gardens further contribute to the hotel's beauty. Located on the mezzanine level in the Montathip Court, the business centre provides business support and services to ensure a productive stay and time best spent. Amongst other leisure facilities, the magnificent 25-metre outdoor swimming pool is a perfect place for you to relax and rejuvenate your body. In addition, the spa's traditional Thai architecture evokes spiritual tranquillity and a feeling of harmony with nature. Room Facilities • Cable / Satellite TV • Hairdryer • In-room safe • Mini bar • Private bathroom / Ensuite • Radio • Refrigerator • Telephone • Voice mail Hotel Facilities • Banquet facilities • Business centre • Cocktail bar • Conference facilities • Currency exchange • Disabled facilities • Faxing facilities • Gymnasium • Internet access • Jacuzzi / Whirlpool • Laundry facilities • Lounge • Parking facilities (at cost) • Photocopying facilities • Reception • Restaurant • Room service • Spa • Swimming pool Hotel Address Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok 155 Rajadamri Road Bangkok 10330 Thailand

Hotel Arts Barcelona

For many visitors the Hotel Arts Barcelona is one of the most popular five Star Luxury Hotels in the city. Owned by the Ritz Carlton group (not to be confused with the Ritz hotel which is in another part of town) it offers modern and high quality accommodation in Barcelona.

The views from the four sides of The Arts Hotel

You will have one of three possible views from the hotel depending on which side of the hotel your room is situated.

The first is of Barceloneta beach if you are at the front or the left side of the hotel as you look at the hotel from the picture at the top of this page (Hotel Arts is the building on the left side in the picture above)

Click here to see a comprehensive photo guide of Barceloneta beach.

Or if your room is on the right hand side you will have a view of Port Olimpico marina. Click here for our photo guide of Port Olimpico

However if your room is at the back of the hotel you will have a view of Avenue Icaria - a road as shown in the photo below.

If you want to specify which view you can have when you book look for a hotel reservation company that specifies the view on the order form. One such firm is Spainbookers who also offer a price promise best rates guarantee. Spainbookers rates can be cheaper than the rates obtained by booking direct with the hotel itself. Lower rates are achieved because of bulk reservation deals that have been negotiated with the hotels. The best thing is to shop around and see if you can get a better rate - or even try to contact the hotel yourself for a price comparison. Click here for booking information on Hotel Arts Barcelona with Spainbookers

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Hotel Arts Barcelona Location

Situated in the marina area of Port Olimpico the Hotel Arts is only a few minutes walk from the beach.

The hotel location, although in the city centre, is not in the very heart of the city centre. For many this is not a problem as the metro is only 5 mins walk away and you are only 4 stops (10 mins journey by metro) to Passeig de Gracia and the very centre of Barcelona. If you want to walk along the beach to the city centre you have about a 30 mins walk, or a 10 minute journey by taxi (Approximately 5 Euros)

Some people prefer their hotel to be situated only minutes walk away from where all the action is. If that is what you want you may need to consider another hotel closer to the Ramblas or Placa de Catalunya instead.

There are advantages to Hotel Arts Barcelona location apart from the beach and marina being close by. You will have a quiet room which means a peaceful night's sleep. Before I moved to Barcelona I came here on holiday at least once per year for the past 10 years ( I usually have 2 holidays per year so I always went somewhere else for the second break). As a result of those visits I stayed in hotels in many locations in Barcelona city centre. I can tell you that the very heart of the city centre is noisy - especially at night when the city comes alive. If you want to be guaranteed of a quiet night's sleep without noise from the street it's recommended you stay in a hotel outside of the very centre or at least away from busy roads. In which case the Arts hotel Barcelona is in a perfect location.

Many internet hotel reservation sites claim that city centre hotels are soundproofed however from my experience this is not always the case and you will have to take what they say with a pinch of salt. By choosing a hotel away from all the hustle and bustle you can be sure of a quiet night's sleep.

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What Does Hotel Arts Barcelona Offer You?

If you are looking for style, beach location, and a guaranteed peaceful nights sleep Hotel Arts Barcelona is an excellent choice especially if you can afford the room rates! You will benefit from a modern hotel with rooms of a high standard. You can also be rest assured that the Barcelona Arts Hotel is worthy of its 5 star Luxury hotel rating - something that cannot be said about some other 5 star hotels in Barcelona.

If you are coming to Barcelona on a special occasion like a wedding anniversary or honeymoon then the Arts hotel is ideally located in one of the most romantic areas of Barcelona (after the Cathedral area -the top romance spot). You can walk along the sea front promenade at night with soft lights, palm trees, and the sound of the sea washing up on the sand.

In summary, if you choose to stay at the Hotel Arts you will benefit from a modern hotel worthy of the 5 Star luxury rating, in a quiet location of Barcelona near the beaches and marina area. Click here for booking information on Hotel Arts Barcelona

Click here to submit a review of a Barcelona hotel

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Reviews of Other 5 Star Hotels in Barcelona

Eurostars Grand Marina Hotel Barcelona based near the Port Vell area of Barcelona this hotel is ideally placed for easy access to the heart of Barcelona city centre and has great views of the marina area.

Claris Barcelona - based about 20 mins walk from Placa Catalunya and only 5 mins from Passeig de Gracia this hotel is in a great location. Hotel Claris is also host to the Stella restaurant which has become popular as a top restaurant in its own right.

Le Meridien based on the Ramblas you couldn't get more central a location in Barcelona.

Palace Hotel Barcelona, Spain The Palace Hotel is based only 10 mins walk to Placa Catalunya you will also be in an ideal location to explore the city.

Melia Barcelona based about 40 mins walk to Placa de Catalunya this 5 Star hotel is a little further out than the others however you do have a metro stop (hospital clinic see our Barcelona metro map) close by (10 mins walk) from the hotel.

Tenaya Lodge Yosemite

Resort Overview Size of Property 35 Forested Acres Season Tenaya Lodge is a year round resort with very distinct seasons that offer a mountain of outdoor recreation. Price Range * $129.00 ~ $700.00 Currency Converter Accommodations The elegant décor of Tenaya Lodge’s 244 guestrooms and suites offer an inviting retreat from a day spent exploring all Yosemite has to offer. Location Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is a classic mountain resort set two miles from Yosemite National Park’s southern gate, surrounded by noble evergreen forest and a rich range of Sierra recreation. Meeting Facilities The only full service conference facility in the Yosemite region, Tenaya Lodge offers nine conference rooms including a 6,000-square foot Grand Ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows and space for up to 500 people. Recreation Tours, Skiing, Hiking, Rock Climbing, Mountain Biking, Fly Fishing, Boating, 4-Wheel Driving, Horseback Riding, Nature Walks and Geocaching Additional Info Tenaya Lodge surrounds guests with nature’s majesty, whether you’re exploring Yosemite or simply relaxing by the pool, you’ll have an incredible backdrop for all of your memories. * Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice.

Description A Resort for All Seasons Tinsel at Tenaya Tops Yosemite's Winter Wonders Sleigh bells in the snow, a High Sierra mountain lodge with roaring fireplaces, massive windows framing enchanted forest vistas - Tenaya Lodge knows how to ring in the holidays. Tenaya Lodge features the largest Christmas Tree displayed in the Yosemite area, a 34-foot White Fir tree that is topped every year from neighboring forests under a program that helps thin groves that are overgrown. The tall Tannenbaum is replaced with a seedling from Tenaya Lodge's 35 acres. Holiday activities at Tenaya Lodge feature festive Thanksgiving and Christmas day buffets, family portrait sessions in the hotel lobby, morning nature hikes and evening outdoor flashlight hikes, spa services, snowshoe, ice skate and cross country ski rentals. Located at an elevation of 5,288 feet, Tenaya Lodge is virtually assured of a "white Christmas", complemented by holiday sleigh rides, caroling in front of the hotel's majestic stone fireplace, holiday readings and live entertainment, a nightly visit from Santa (until the moment he reports for duty up north) and an expanded Camp Tenaya, the lodge's dedicated program for kids. California's original ski area, Badger Pass has all the elements for a perfect ski getaway - the famous Sierra snowpack, an 8,000-foot summit, terrain that is ideal for beginners and families, superb ski school, and many bright blue-sky days to enjoy it all. Located just inside Yosemite National Park, and minutes from Tenaya Lodge, Badger Pass offers nine groomed runs, miles of cross country ski trails and a separate area for snowboarding. Tenaya Lodge - the closest luxury hotel to Badger Pass -- sells lift passes and offers a shuttle to the ski area. Those who prefer to enjoy the winter wonderland at their own pace can strap on a pair of superlight snowshoes and pad around the resort's 35 acres, go dashing through the snow in a two-horse open sleigh ride, or carve figure eights at Curry Village's outdoor skating rink in what may be the world's most dramatic setting for ice skating, with Half Dome and Glacier Point in full view. Of course, there's always a good book enjoyed in front of a cozy fire or a dreamy massage and spa treatment to warm winter's chill. Tenaya's Endless Spring Yosemite National Park blossoms each spring with millions of wildflowers as the High Sierra snowpack melts, making Yosemite's falls thunder and quenching the Valley's thirst for color. Hundreds of species of wildflowers blossom in Yosemite's Sierra foothills, riverine canyons, forests and alpine meadows. Spring is a superlative-filled season to experience the Yosemite region. As famed conservationist and naturalist John Muir wrote of the season: Now is the birth-time of leaves; the pines are retassled, and the oaks are sprayed with young purple. Spring is fully committed. Ferns are a foot high, willows are letting fly drifts of ripe seeds. Balm of Gilead poplars, after weeks of caution, have launched their buds full of red and leaves of tender glossy yellow. Cherries, honeysuckles, violets, bluets, buttercups, larkspurs, gilias, are full of bloom of leaf and flower. Plant-odor fills the valley in light floating clouds and mists; it covers the ground and trees … The scents and sounds and forms of Yosemite spring-time are as exquisitely compounded as her colors. El Capitan is softened with a most graceful little stream that steals confidingly over his massive brow in a clear fall of more than a thousand feet. Tenaya Lodge offers a front-row seat on Yosemite's glorious springtime theater of waterfalls, wildflowers and wildlife as the Park wakes from its winter's nap. What's more, the elevation gradient of Tenaya Lodge's surrounding Sierra home reaches from 3,000 feet through 13,000 feet, effectively extending the wonders of the season from March through July and even into August at the higher elevations. Fall Into Yosemite Yosemite's autumn is a feast for the senses. Nature spices the air and sends the sun slanting through forests filled with leaves of striking hues. Cool evenings are scented by crackling cedar and pine logs in the fireplace. The summer crowds have departed, leaving behind clear Sierra vistas and the best weather of the year. Yosemite National Park is incomparable: meadows turn flaxen, wildlife returns to the valley and the air is crisp and pure. Trees sport their vibrant fall colors, which go aglow with an occasional late-season's dusting of snow. Mountain bikes, horseback rides or your own all-terrain shoes can carry you to the heart of fall's foliage and the wilderness beauty surrounding Tenaya Lodge. Add a box lunch of fresh fruit, sandwich and soda, or go with the Tenaya Deluxe - grilled chicken, tortellini pasta, fresh baguette with brie and more - and you have an outing that will be savored today, and for years to come. Tenaya Lodge's fall packages are favorites of travelers who recognize the High Sierra's autumnal allure. Offering a bounty of added values like Yosemite National Park passes and reduced rates for two-night minimum stays, these attractive packages are typically offered from Labor Day to just before Thanksgiving. Travel & Industry Awards AAA Four Diamond Award Smart Meetings Platinum Choice Award Meeting's West Best of the West Award Affiliations Asilomar Conference Grounds, Pacific Grove CA The Ahwahnee, Yosemite National Park CA Wuksachi Lodge, Sequoia National Park CA Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa, Vancouver Canada The Balsams, New Hampshire Yellowstone General Stores, Montana Old Town San Diego, California Niagara Falls, New York Kennedy Space Center, Florida The Lodge & Conference Center at Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio Delaware North Companies, New York Payments Accepted American Express Discover MasterCard Traveler's Checks Visa Personal Checks Reservation Policy Deposit - All reservations require payment of the first night rate as a deposit. Some packages and special events require full payment at the time you make your reservations. Daily rates do not include applicable state and county taxes for charges for any other services. Special Requests - Special requests, when allowed in Tenaya's sole discretion, are noted and maintained in the reservation system; however, they cannot guarantee any specific rooms or locations you request. Third Party Reservations/Credit Card User - If you are making reservations on behalf of another person ("credit card holder"), you make the following representations and warranties and further agree to comply with the terms and conditions stated below: (1) You have obtained legal authorization from the credit card holder to make reservations on behalf of the credit card holder, to pay all advanced deposit charge(s) using the credit card holder's credit card and agree to the terms and conditions on the credit card holder's behalf and thereby bind credit card holder to Tenaya's terms and conditions; (2) The Guest Information you have provided above, e.g., name, phone number, and address, is that of the credit card holder; (3) You have advised the credit card holder that Tenaya does not impose any third party booking charges and will accept reservations directly from the credit card holder; and (4) You will inform the credit card holder of all Terms and Conditions, and provide the credit card holder with reservation confirmation(s) and any other information or correspondence pertaining to the credit card holder's reservations. Group Reservation Policies If you are booking a group reservation the following policies apply to you reservation: All individual guest rooms must be canceled 7 days or more prior to arrival to receive a full refund. Cancellation within the 7-day period will result in forfeiture of your deposit. All reductions to a guest’s length of stay must be received 48 hours or more prior to arrival. If a reduction in room nights is made within 48 hours of arrival, the guest will be required to pay for the length of stay. No shows will be charged the contracted nightly rate for each night the room is not occupied by the individual, up to and including the entire length of stay. Early departures and/or late arrivals will be charged the contracted nightly rate for each night the reserved room is not occupied by the individual, up to and including the entire length of stay. Cancellation Policy Requests for cancellation or changes may be made by calling the Central Reservation Office. Tenaya must receive requests for cancellation of your reservations at least seven (7) days prior to your scheduled arrival date for a refund of your deposit. All reductions to a guest’s length of stay must be received 48 hours or more prior to arrival. If a reduction in room nights is made within 48 hours of arrival, you will be required to pay for the original length of stay. No shows and early departures will be charged the contracted nightly rate for each night the reserved room is not occupied by the individual, up to and including the entire length of stay. Tenaya strictly enforces this cancellation/change policy and does not allow any exceptions.

Descubre los 5 mejores hoteles del mundo

Una vez en la vida merece la pena ‘tirar la casa por la ventana’. Nuestra propuesta es alojarte en alguno de los hoteles que te presentamos. Están calificados como los mejores del mundo, y no es para menos: lujo en esencia pura, arquitectura de vanguardia, ubicaciones de película, glamour a raudales... Déjate tentar.

Existen hoteles en el mundo que superan todos los conceptos de lujo, elegancia y placer imaginables, donde todo está pensado para que te sientas como un auténtico rey. Donde todo lo que te rodea es espectacular y único. Donde la arquitectura alcanza el grado de arte. Donde el entorno es absolutamente paradisíaco. Donde la gastronomía está a la altura de los dioses. Donde la tecnología supera la ciencia ficción. Donde encontrar todos los servicios que puedas imaginar para cuidar tu cuerpo y tu mente.

Entre la clientela de estos hoteles de súper lujo se encuentra la gente más rica, guapa, famosa e importante del planeta. Por supuesto, los precios están a la altura de lo que ofrecen, pero estamos seguros de que la experiencia merecerá la pena. La revista Travel & Leisure publica cada año su ránking de “los mejores hoteles del mundo”, repartidos por los cuatro principales continentes, y basándose en el criterio de ‘mejor calidad/precio’. El precio por noche en uno de estos hoteles de lujo varía en función del tipo de habitación: desde los 400 euros hasta casi los 4.500 €.

En los diez años en los que se ha elaborado la clasificación de los 100 mejores hoteles del mundo, hay ocho que han aparecido en todas sus ediciones: Four Seasons Resort Bali (en Jimbaran Bay), The Oriental (Bangkok), Halekulani (Honolulu), The Peninsula (Hong Kong), Four Seasons Resort Maui (Wailea), Ritz-Carlton (Cancún), Ritz-Carlton (Chicago) y Inn at Spanish Bay (California).

A la espera de que finalice el año 2006, estos son los cinco mejores hoteles de 2005 según Travel & Leisure.

1. Four Seansons Resorts Sayan
Es el número uno en Bali y siempre está entre los primeros puestos de las listas de los mejores hoteles del mundo. Y con todo el merecimiento. Este Four Seasons es un paraíso hecho realidad. Integrado en plena naturaleza y construido a orillas del río Ayung, este resort parece estar suspendido en el aire y convive en perfecta armonía en un entorno mágico. Las playas que lo rodean son las más apreciadas por los ‘surferos’ de medio mundo. El arquitecto británico que lo construyó, John Heah, trataba de jugar con la yuxtaposición de la naturaleza y los materiales hechos a mano para lograr que el edificio se disipara en el paisaje, que la magia del lugar quedara integrada en el entorno. En este hotel todo es sorprendente y especial: bajo el estanque de lotos se puede dar una clase de yoga o disfrutar de una romántica cena; en el maravilloso Jati Bar, frente a la selva y al sagrado río Ayung, podrás tomarte un cóctel mientras ves el atardecer más increíble de tu vida... La propia isla de Bali, con su encantadora gente, completa los encantos de este espectacular hotel incrustado en la montaña. El hotel cuenta con suites y villas privadas con piscina, con todas las comodidades del mundo: bañeras inmensas donde relajarte, porches adornados con cestas de fruta fresca, piscinas en varias alturas, últimas tecnologías… El personal del resort se desvive para hacer que la estancia de los clientes sea absolutamente feliz. La gastronomía del hotel es tan deliciosa como sus vistas y en los alrededores puedes hacer todo tipo de deportes acuáticos y terrestres.
-No te pierdas... Su spa, considerado uno de los mejores del mundo, donde las tradiciones del país se suman a los tratamientos de belleza más avanzados.
-Precio. La suite cuesta unos 380 euros por noche; la villa de una habitación 485 €, y la Royal villa, con tres habitaciones, 2.535 euros.
-Contacto. Sayan, Ubud, Gianyar 80571 Bali, Indonesia Tel. 62 (361) 977577. www.fourseasons.com

2. Singita Private Game Reserve
Este impresionante hotel colonial se encuentra en una impresionante reserva animal de 18.000 hectáreas. Junto al río Sand, este complejo, que parece sacado de una película, cuenta con 18 espléndidos apartamentos equipados con piscina individual que te servirán de descanso mientras disfrutas de un safari. De día o de noche, montado en un Land Rover descapotable, podrás observar leones, leopardos, rinocerontes, elefantes, búfalos y guepardos. En este espectacular resort te tratarán como en casa y podrás disfrutar de una cocina excelente, regada con los magníficos vinos sudafricanos. El hotel comprende cinco alojamientos distintos: Ebony Lodge (ejemplifica el safari tradicional y el lujo colonial), Boulders Lodge (el mayor refinamiento africano), Lebombo Lodge (un espacio lleno de luz y agua para descansar y meditar), Sweni Lodge (original decoración llena de color y diseño), Castleton Camp (una de las casas de la famlia Bailly, propietarios del hotel, perfecta para grupos).
-No te pierdas... Su piscina exterior, su hamman, su zona de fitness y actividades como la pesca o el tiro con arco.
-Precio. Entre 1.240 y 1.430 € la noche.
-Dónde. Claremont 7735. Sudáfrica. Tel. + 27 (0)21 683 3424. www.singita.com.

3. Oberoi Rajvilas
A 8 km del centro de la vibrante Jaipur se encuentra este oasis de lujo y refinamiento oriental. Sacado de ‘Las Mil y una Noches’, este hotel tiene habitaciones y villas, todas cuidadas hasta el último detalle. También dispone de un restaurante con cocina local, asiática y continental, piscina central, jacuzzis y spa. Las habitaciones son de tres clases: de lujo, agrupadas de cuatro en cuatro alrededor de un patio con una fuente, cada una de unos 42 m2; tiendas de campaña de lujo de unos 45 m2; y dos villas, cada una ellas de unos 355 m2, con aire acondicionado y jardín privado. Este oasis está rodeado de 32 acres de impresionantes jardines que te harán revivir los tiempos de las legendarias princesas del Rajastan. Las habitaciones, las tiendas de lujo y las villas con piscina privada se distribuyen en patios privados con una decoración exquisita.
-No te pierdas... El spa Oberoi Sa by Bnyan Tee, una experiencia de relajación total que combina las técnicas de la India de la época de los Marajás con los más modernos tratamientos de belleza y spa. No te vayas sin probar una sesión de yoga en el recinto de un antiguo templo de Shiva.
-Precio. Entre 600 y 3.000 € la noche.
-Dónde. Goner Road, 303012. Tel. (+91-141) 268 0101. Jaipur. India.

4. Four Seasons Resort Chiang May
Este increíble hotel, ubicado en el valle Mae Sa, es uno de los más elegantes de toda Tailandia. Entre montañas y bosques, en un antiguo poblado tailandés, cuenta con spa y ofrece a sus clientes originales actividades, como clases de cocina tailandesa o jardinería. Está decorado al estilo tailandés, con madera de teka y hermosas telas, pero con todas las comodidades y últimas tecnologías. El trato es absolutamente cálido y amable, para hacer que cada visitante se sienta especial. Las habitaciones se encuentran repartidas en 24 acres de terreno, construidas en madera, muy amplias y con terraza privada. También puedes alojarte en una de sus 16 magníficas residencias. Espectaculares jardines tropicales rodean el hotel. Todo está pensado para proporcionar comodidad y relajación. La cocina te ofrece platos de la gastronomía tradicional e internacional. Las puestas de sol en la Barra del Elefante son tan espectaculares como los baños en su increíble piscina al borde del valle de Mae.
-No te pierdas... Los tratamientos relajantes del spa Calet Tree-Storey Palatial, diseñado al estilo antiguo de los tradicionales templos tailandeses norteños. Te encantarán los masajes con tu pareja en las ‘camas tropicales’.
-Precio. Entre 465 y 1.100 € la noche.
-Dónde. Mae Rim, Samoeng Old Road, Chiang Mai 50180. Tailandia. www.fourseasons.com.

5. Château Les Craayères
Este castillo medieval, ubicado en el centro de Reims, fue en su día propiedad de la conocida aristócrata Madame Pommery y aún conserva el espíritu de la región de Champaña. Los jardines que lo rodean deslumbran por su cuidadísimo aspecto y sus caminos de piedra que serpentean entre los árboles que plantó hace años la mismísima Madame Pommery. Dentro del hotel, las paredes del hall han sido decoradas con retratos de época. Los dormitorios también están decorados al estilo francés de principios del s XX. El salón destaca por su altísimo techo y sus imponentes candelabros, mientras que el comedor es una obra maestra de finales del siglo pasado, con querubines, tapices y destellos dorados. Al frente del restaurante se encuentra Gérard Boyer, que ha recibido tres estrellas de la Guía Michelín, y convierte cada comida en un acto absolutamente delicioso. Durante el verano la cena se sirve en el jardín del castillo. El trato es absolutamente cálido y personal.
-No te pierdas... El espectacular champán, foie y hongos de la zona, que siempre encontrarás en la carta del restaurante. No te pierdas la visita guiada y gratuita, con cata incluida, por los viñedos Pommery.
-Precio. Entre 340 y 600 € la noche.
-Dónde. 64, Boulevard Henry Vasnier. Tel. +33 3 69 20 45 66. Reims, Champagne, Francia. www.lescrayeres.com.

Burj al Arab: el único con 7 estrellas Este famoso hotel árabe, construido en una isla artificial, es el único del mundo que ostenta el mérito de ser considerado un ‘siete estrellas’. Como sacado de una versión moderna de ‘las mil y una noches’, este resort encarna el máximo concepto de lujo asiático. Las tradiciones árabes y la hospitalidad más exquisita son pilares en el Burj al Arab, tan conocido en Dubai como la Torre Eiffel en París. Situado a 17 kilómetros al sur de Dubai, no sólo es el hotel más lujoso del mundo sino también el más alto: 321 metros en forma de vela, con unas vistas únicas sobre el desierto. Su propietario es el jeque de Dubai, uno de los hombres más ricos del mundo. 202 suites con todas las comodidades imaginables y más grandes que una casa: jacuzzis, salas de cine, ascensor privado, 27 líneas de teléfono, cinco personas a tu servicio... Los clientes pueden elegir entre siete restaurantes de lujo, uno de ellos submarino y otro que parece estar suspendido en el aire. Mármol y hojas de oro en la decoración. -¿Cuánto cuesta? Una semana en este moderno ‘harén’ te costará más de 10.500 €. www.jumeirahbeachhotel.com