In a world where sustainability is no longer just a buzzword but a necessity, hotels are taking on a pivotal role in redefining what it means to be eco-friendly. Beyond merely reducing carbon footprints, the commitment to sustainability now encompasses ethical business practices, community engagement, and a profound dedication to both the planet and its people.
Photo: Oswin Ribeiro – Hotel Manager at Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney
We had the pleasure of sitting down with Oswin Ribeiro, the Hotel Manager of Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney, to delve into their hotel's remarkable sustainability journey.
The Dual Pillars of Sustainability:
Mr. Ribeiro began by emphasizing the dual pillars of sustainability - the planet and people. Traditionally, sustainability focused on eco-friendly practices. However, in the modern hotel context, it extends far beyond environmental measures, embracing ethical sourcing, community engagement, fostering inclusivity, and partnerships with charitable organizations, leading to a more comprehensive scope of sustainability efforts within the hotel industry.
"At Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney, sustainability isn't just about being eco-friendly; it's about being socially responsible and deeply connected to our community. Sustainability for us is about more than reducing our carbon footprint; it's about making a positive impact on our community and setting an example for responsible hospitality" he explained.
Balancing Luxury with Sustainability:
In the realm of five-star hotels, achieving a seamless integration of luxury and sustainability has become an art form that establishments are increasingly mastering. According to Oswin, hotels must adeptly weave green initiatives into their operations without compromising the guest experience. Incorporating brand standards serves as a foundational step, guiding the cause through product and service enhancements. From the incorporation of eco-friendly materials in construction and furnishings to the implementation of energy-efficient technologies, these establishments are redefining luxury by wholeheartedly embracing sustainable initiatives. High-end dining experiences often showcase locally sourced, organic ingredients, contributing to community support and a reduced carbon footprint.
"Sustainability should be noticeable in its execution but not overpowering in its messaging. It's about integrating changes while maintaining our standards of luxury," notes Oswin.
In the past decade, new hotels have been purposefully designed with sustainability in mind, encompassing not only eco-friendly building materials but also operational efficiency and a commitment to green initiatives. These pioneering hotels are setting a new standard for the future, unequivocally proving that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously.
Photo: Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney building
Guests' Role in Sustainability:
We delved into the pivotal role guests play in the sustainability equation. According to Mr. Ribeiro, guests are integral to the journey towards sustainability: "Guests are increasingly seeking out hotels committed to sustainability. They're conscious of their impact and actively contribute to our sustainability efforts,". From simple acts like reusing towels to participating in donation programs, guests become partners in this collective endeavour. The hotel has the initiative to encourage guests’ participation by rewarding bonus points to those who choose to opt out of housekeeping on multiple night stays.
Photo: Housekeeping makes an enormous contribution to the hotel's sustainability practices.
EFFICIENCY:
PLANET:
PEOPLE:
"This structured process ensures hotels can track and monitor sustainability, setting the stage for deeper and more comprehensive sustainable practices," he stated.
Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney's Commitment:
At the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney, we have been verified for 10 of the 12 initiatives for the Hotel Sustainability Basics and are striving for all 12 in the second of the three-year timeline, it puts us in a very premier league of businesses that feel proud of achieving this status. Our Responsible practises are driven by a Radisson Blu committee that is made up of cross section of the staff and leadership. This passion is driven at all levels and celebrated more than any other achievement. Together we organise and conduct an average of at least 24 different initiatives that assist the environment and community at large, these are done either by donating personal time for the homeless, to raising funds for Childrens Charity, planting trees, saving Koala’s, donating blood and many more.
Photo: Radisson Blu Sydney team visited Gunawirra to hand over the donation from the Gala Dinner.
In 2023, Radisson Blu Sydney continued its commitment to environmentally friendly practices by introducing Electric Vehicle charging stations in our car park. Additionally, we installed water-saving shower heads to minimize water wastage and replaced single-use water bottles in all guest rooms with refillable alternatives. Moreover, the hotel proudly hosted a successful fundraising Gala Dinner in support of Gunawirra - a community-led organisation that works closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, families, children, and communities, raising a total of over $60,000.
Sustainability is central to the hotel operations, driven by their steadfast belief in 'Yes, I can.' Recognizing the significance of every moment in the context of sustainability, they are committed to making a positive impact.
“Sustainability in hotels is no longer a checkbox; it's a dynamic commitment that goes beyond environmental considerations. As hotels redefine luxury in an eco-conscious era, they pave the way for a greener and more socially responsible tomorrow.”
Conclusion:
In conclusion, sustainability in hotels has evolved into a dynamic commitment that transcends environmental considerations. As hotels redefine luxury in an eco-conscious era, they pave the way for a greener and more socially responsible tomorrow. Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney stands as a shining example of this profound dedication to sustainability, proving that every moment indeed matters in the pursuit of a better world.
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The Shift Towards Affordable Luxury
For years, the concept of a luxurious wedding was synonymous with excessive spending. However, modern couples are rewriting the rules by embracing a different kind of luxury – one that focuses on experiences and meaningful moments rather than lavish displays of wealth.
Personalized Elegance: Affordable luxury weddings are all about thoughtful details and personalization. Couples are choosing quality over quantity, investing in elements that truly matter to them, and curating an elegant yet intimate experience.
Wedding at Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney
Sustainable Choices: Eco-conscious couples are opting for sustainable and environmentally-friendly options, which can be more affordable while also aligning with their values. From sourcing locally grown flowers to choosing venues with green initiatives, sustainability adds a luxurious touch without the extravagant price tag.
Quality Over Quantity: Smaller guest lists allow couples to splurge on premium elements such as gourmet catering, high-quality wines, and top-notch photography, enhancing the overall experience without breaking the bank.
The Rise of Intimate Weddings
Intimate weddings have been on the rise for several years, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2024. The term 'intimate' doesn't necessarily mean tiny; it's about creating an event that's deeply meaningful and shared with the closest of family and friends.
Quality Time: With fewer guests, couples can spend more quality time with each person. This allows for deeper connections, meaningful conversations, and genuine interactions throughout the celebration.
Private Venue Choices: Smaller guest lists open a world of creative possibilities when it comes to choosing a venue. Couples can opt for unique locations like private function rooms, gardens, intimate art galleries, or even a cozy cabin in the woods.
Stress Reduction: Intimate weddings tend to be less stressful to plan, as they involve fewer logistics and fewer guests to coordinate. This allows couples to focus on what truly matters: their love and the experience they want to create.
The Perfect Blend: Affordable Luxury Meets Intimacy
The magic happens when affordable luxury and intimate weddings come together. By curating a thoughtful and elegant celebration with a select group of cherished guests, couples can create an unforgettable experience without going overboard.
Curated Experiences: From personalized guest preferences to a carefully crafted menu, intimate weddings offer the opportunity to create a curated experience that wows guests and makes them feel special.
Meaningful Moments: Smaller weddings enable couples to focus on the meaningful moments, such as handwritten vows, heartfelt toasts, and genuine connections, resulting in a more emotional and memorable celebration.
Budget-Friendly Options: By focusing on what truly matters, couples can allocate their budget more effectively, ensuring that each dollar spent contributes to a luxurious and intimate atmosphere.
Conclusion
The trend of affordable luxury and intimate weddings in 2024 is a refreshing departure from the extravagance of the past. It celebrates the importance of meaningful moments, sustainability, and quality over quantity. If you're planning a wedding, consider embracing this trend, as it allows you to create a celebration that is not only unforgettable but also within reach of most budgets. The key is to focus on what truly matters to you as a couple and curate an experience that reflects your love and values. In 2024, it's all about affordable luxury and intimate elegance – a trend you won't want to miss.
At Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney, our expert team is ready to offer you the most suitable consultation for wedding venue rental and assist with any wedding-related inquiries. You can reach us at events.sydney@radisson.com or call us at +61 2 8214 0000. To discover more about our Meeting & Events venues, please visit https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-sydney/meeting-events.
]]>Book your Sydney summer holiday with the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel summer holiday package. It includes complimentary in-room treats of popcorn, rocky road and a soft drink that will delight the kids, a night in one of the hotel’s luxury appointed rooms - Superior Twin Room, and a hearty breakfast in the Lady Fairfax Room, ensuring the whole family is ready to take on a day of sightseeing.
Spoilt for choice with iconic landmarks at your doorstep, visit the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks precinct and Pitt Street Mall where the Canopy of Light adds sparkle to your Christmas shopping. Circular Quay, just a 10-minute walk, is where you can catch an iconic ferry to locations such as Taronga Park Zoo, Luna Park and Manly Beach. If you are looking for culture, the Museum of Contemporary Art, The Art Gallery of NSW, and the Australian National Maritime Museum are all within walking distance.
At the end of your day, enjoy the hotel’s amenities, such as a swim in the lap pool or book a spa treatment, whilst the kids enjoy watching a movie with their complimentary treats.
Offer inclusions:
Booking dates for the School’s Out for Holiday Savings 14/09/22 - 27/01/23
Stay dates: 14/12/22 - 29/12/22, 02/01/23 - 13/01/22 & 15/01/23 - 30/01/23 (other exclusions/blackout dates may apply).
Promo code: FAMILY
]]>With lots of outdoor fun to be had throughout the Sydney CBD and beyond, kids and teens will be entertained, whether it’s a day at one of Sydney’s famous beaches, a ferry ride to Taronga Zoo, or strolling around Darling Harbour and Barangaroo precincts, the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney provides the ultimate launch pad and resting place, to unwind after an active day.
“Sydney comes alive during the festive season and the city in particular is transformed into a Christmas wonderland with markets, roving performers, carollers and decorations. It really is a magical place for the whole family to visit,” said Peter Tudehope, general manager of Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney. “With the hotel located in the heart of the CBD, it's the perfect spot for a family holiday and a great place to enjoy all that Sydney has to offer during the summer. Close to major trains, ferries, and bus lines, our guests have easy access to Sydney’s beaches and the harbour, and after a long day out, the hotel provides a place to rest and plan your next day’s activities.”
Summer Holidays - Save up to 20%
Summer Holiday Savings a great way to stay and enjoy all the luxury amenities of the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel before heading out to explore the city. After a restful night in one of the hotel’s luxury appointed rooms - Superior Room, High Floor Deluxe Balcony room or treat yourself to a Studio Spa Suite, wake in the morning to enjoy a leisurely buffet breakfast in the gloriously sunbathed Lady Fairfax Room with expansive city views through the stunning floor to ceiling Georgian-style windows. Ease those tired feet and muscles from sightseeing or shopping with a visit to the hotel’s luxury spa for some pampering or enjoy a splash in the lap pool.
Offer inclusions:
There's no better time than the September school holidays to take your family on that long-awaited holiday to Sydney or for those who are locals, to enjoy all the city has to offer with a staycation at the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel. Keeping kids and teens active and engaged during the school holidays can be a challenge, however, Radisson Blu Plaza has your family covered as it’s the ideal launch pad to Sydney’s best landmarks and attractions, all while enjoying five-star luxury, convenience and relaxation.
“Sydney is the ultimate family holiday destination at any time of the year and September is the perfect month to take advantage of our fabulous weather and explore the city,” said Peter Tudehope, general manager of Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney. “Life is busy and the traditional notion of taking a holiday together is something we’re seeing more of from families who are keen to jump off the hamster wheel to create fun holiday memories. Radisson Blu Plaza puts families right in the middle of all the city's best attractions and activities that will keep everyone entertained, no matter what age. When they’ve had enough of the hustle and bustle, the hotel is the ideal place to recharge for the next day.”
Plan your itinerary these school holidays by kickstarting your Sydney adventure with the luxury amenities of Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel. Kids will be spoiled with a special in-room treat of popcorn, rocky road and a soft drink. A night in one of the hotel’s luxury appointed rooms - Superior Twin Room, followed by a hearty breakfast in the Lady Fairfax Room will ensure you’re energised and ready to take on a day of sightseeing. Make the most of the hotel being a stone’s throw from iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay, where you can catch an iconic ferry to Taronga Park Zoo, Luna Park or Manly Beach. Hotel team members are local and can provide advice and tips on the best city attractions to visit and experience during your stay. After a day of sightseeing, enjoy for some well-earned pampering in the hotel’s luxury spa, or take a splash in the lap pool. Finish off by planning your activities for the next day over dinner and a cocktail whilst kids enjoy a drink on the Radisson Blu Plaza.
Offer inclusions:
Booking dates for the School’s Out for Holiday Savings 14/09/22 - 27/01/23
Stay dates: 19/09/22 - 09/10/22, 14/12/22 - 29/12/22, 02/01/23 - 13/01/22 & 15/01/23 - 30/01/23 (other exclusions/blackout dates may apply).
Promo code: FAMILY
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The Sydney Everest Carnival is more than just about first-class horse racing, it’s also an opportunity to experience food, fashion and entertainment both on and off the field.
The Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel provides racegoers with a convenient location and affordable five-star elegance to enjoy all that Royal Randwick Racecourse and the hotel has to offer. Racing enthusiasts and fashionistas can enjoy the luxury of a Superior Room before waking to a leisurely buffet breakfast in the gloriously sunbathed Lady Fairfax Room with expansive city views through the stunning floor to ceiling Georgian-style windows. With easy access to the light-rail and only minutes to Royal Randwick Racecourse, guests will arrive fresh and ready for a full day of thrilling racing action.
To celebrate this year's Sydney Everest Carnival, we've put together a special Spring Racing package inclusive of Race Day tickets.
In collaboration with Australian Turf Club, we're offering racegoers complimentary Sydney Everest Carnival general admission race day tickets when packaged with our Spring Racing offer.
Offer inclusions:
Booking dates for the Spring Racing Getaway package are from 17 August to 31 October 2022. Stay dates for the Spring Racing Getaway package are from 1 September to 30 November 2022.
Promotion code: SRP22
]]>Shake off the cold winter months and come out of hibernation to make the most of Sydney’s warmer weather and longer days with Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney’s Spring packages. Whether you are looking for a staycation, a long weekend or fancy taking in the exhilarating action of Sydney’s Everest Carnival, the Spring packages have been designed for those seeking five-star luxury, convenience and relaxation.
“You cannot go wrong visiting Australia’s most iconic city in Spring,” said Peter Tudehope, general manager of Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney. “Sunshine and mild weather, the streets are lined with the vibrant purple of Jacarandas and there’s a festival to suit everyone’s interests. The Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel offers the perfect boutique experience for anyone looking for a city getaway. Location is everything and being in the heart of the CBD the city is on our doorstep, and, yet only a few light-rail stops to Royal Randwick Racecourse makes the hotel an ideal base for spending a day trackside.”
Sweet Spring Savings
Sweet Spring Savings is a great way to stay and enjoy all the luxury amenities of the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel before heading out to explore the city. After a restful night in one of the hotel’s luxury appointed rooms - Superior Room, High Floor Deluxe Balcony room or treat yourself to a Studio Spa Suite, wake in the morning to enjoy a leisurely buffet breakfast in the gloriously sunbathed Lady Fairfax Room with expansive city views through the stunning floor to ceiling Georgian-style windows. Ease those tired feet and muscles from sightseeing or shopping with a visit to the hotel’s luxury spa for some pampering or enjoy a splash in the lap pool.
Offer inclusions:
Botany Bay Coastal Walk
The Botany Bay Coastal Walk is a perfect choice for those looking to explore Sydney’s beautiful southern coastlines. A 12.7km track, there’s plenty to experience. With sweeping beaches and cliff top tracks, you’ll encounter different native plants and wildlife, incredible views of the ocean whilst soaking up the sunshine and sea spray.
Cape Solander in Kamay is Sydney’s ultimate vantage point to spot humpback whales on their annual migration. July is one of the best times to sight the whales, who have been known to swim as close as just 200m from the coast!
Be sure to snap a photo of Cape Baily Lighthouse - built in the 1950s, it is still active today guiding ships along the coastline – impressive! Continuing from the light house, you’ll soon get views of the Boat Harbour Aquatic Reserve. The walk follows the coastline through to Cronulla and, if you're brave enough, why not have a dip in the ocean pools to refresh.
Fairfax Lookout, North Head
Overlooking the gateway to Sydney Harbour, Fairfax Lookout at North Head offers breathtaking views over the ocean and across to the CBD. It’s around a 1km walk and easily accessible. During the months of June through to October, this family friendly walk also offers many vantage points along the way and is one of the bests spots to spend a winters afternoon finding pods of migrating humpback whales.
Manly to Spit Bridge Walk
A breathtaking 10km coastal walk running through Manly Wharf and Spit Bridge, you’ll be treated to spectacular panoramic views of the harbour and Pacific Ocean, native bushland and peaceful beaches. A handful of highlights you can enjoy during your coastal walk include; The Spit Bridge, Castle Rock beach, Grotto Point Lighthouse, North Harbour Reserve, Fairlight Walk and Manly Wharf. Many walkers opt to end at Manly, as the Wharf and Corso have countless options when it comes to dining and drinking. A quick ferry ride back to the CBD is also handy, making this one of the most popular walking paths in Sydney!
Brandley’s Head Trail
The Bradley’s Head to Chowder Bay walk will take you around the harbour headlands from the wharf at Taronga Zoo through to the beach and restaurants at Chowder Bay. It’s the perfect way to experience the best of the bush, whilst taking in incredible views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. There are even some historic sites and heritage-listed buildings along the way, including Athol Hall - a perfect spot to grab a coffee and a snack. Get amongst the wildlife and explore this wonderful part of Sydney.
Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk
Sydney's most northern point in the Ku-ring-gai national park sits Barrenjoey Headland at Palm Beach. The walk up the hill towards the historic Barrenjoey Lighthouse offers spectacular scenery and once at the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views overlooking Broken Bay and the Sydney coastline. For those looking to spot migrating whales, Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk is well worth the short but steep walk!
If you find yourself in the City after your walk and are in need of a refreshment, why not come on over to The Fax Bar and relax into soft lounge seating, or settle in for snacks at the bar.
We hope this has inspired you to get out and about in Sydney this winter!
Don't forget to bookmark this post, and if you have enjoyed any of these walks this weekend, tag us on social media!
]]>At Radisson Blu Plaza Sydney we are all about creating Memorable Moments. What is your favourite Memorable Moment from your time working for us?
There are so many of them that I won't be able to fit them all in here. Working in the in-room dining quarantine operations during the lockdown was one of the most memorable moments. Providing quality meals to guests stuck in their rooms, including the members of NSW Police, Defence, and Health, was a very fulfilling experience. Feedback on the lids of the trays was priceless. I was literally overcome with emotion when reading the messages. It would have been hard to be in an enclosed space for fourteen days.
And of course! How could I forget the day when I was rewarded for my passion, hard work, and dedication to the organization with a double promotion? I am grateful to Chef Oswin and the management for their support and recognition.
What made you decide to switch from hospitality to nursing? When did you realise this?
I have always been motivated by my family and my wife, as well as by my love for helping others. Whilst I very much enjoyed my hospitality career and the time in the kitchen, I always have been interested in healthcare, particularly the area of mental health. In recent years, I have heard of many Australians suffering from anxiety, depression, and even committing suicide. Similarly, I have experienced a few events in my personal life that have challenged my mental health at one point. So, I knew I wanted to do something about it. This led me to Nursing. My sister who currently works as a mental health nurse and an acting nurse unit manager for a large healthcare organisation motivated me accordingly. After all, I had received my Australian citizenship by then. I wonder what the best way would be to give back to the community.
How did you transition from Senior Chef de Partie to a nursing career?
I have always enjoyed learning, but it was not an easy transition. You have reminded me of a unit in my hospitality degree ‘Change Management’ that taught me that “change is difficult but necessary”.
I was the main earner of the family and had to work full-time. And to make things worse, during my studies, I had to sell my house due to the growing need of the family, moved into a rented place, and took out a construction loan to build a new one. With so many responsibilities on my shoulders, I used to be occupied 7 days a week, mostly doing my assignments on the train and in libraries outside of work hours missing all the joyful times with my family.
There were no holidays at all. Some days I cried in the libraries missing my two little children as they would always be asleep by the time I got home. But I never missed a class and still managed to receive a 5.8 GPA with multiple HDs. Most importantly, my success was the result of all the support I received from Radisson Blu, my family, and my close friends.
Did your hospitality career in any way assist you with your career as a nurse? Are there any overlaps?
Yes, in many ways. I always believed in quality which attracted me to five-star hotels for so long. It taught me so many valuable skills that I was able to apply to nursing, and I am extremely proud to have had this background supported by a bachelor's degree in hospitality. I think the need for hospitality in healthcare is paramount. As we highly value our guests’ experience with our five-star hotel service, we equally care about their journey in healthcare and continually seek feedback to improve our quality of service. Especially when consumers, including their family members, are experiencing extreme emotions such as pain, suffering, and difficulties, a kind word or gesture can go a long way. It promotes trust and reliability in service. It is truly what we do they remember, not what we say. Out of many, the biggest overlap between these careers is empathy. There is no care without empathy.
When I first started at Radisson Blu I learned about the Carlson Credo, which is applicable in nursing too. I shared it with the senior executives during my presentations and they were very impressed. Let me say again: “Whatever you do, do with integrity. Wherever you go, go as a leader. Whomever you serve, serve with caring. Whenever you dream, dream with your all. And never, ever give up.” Even though Radisson Blu is now no longer owned by the Carlson family I still believe this credo is the best ever!
What do you enjoy most about your career as a nurse?
I enjoy directly working with people, helping them, and being a part of their journey of recovery. It can be as simple as getting a depressed person from their bed and taking them to sunshine or giving hope to a suicidal consumer, keeping them safe, and preserving their valuable life. However, it can also be highly charged with emotions at times, very challenging, and confronting. But I must say it is a very rewarding experience. There is no same day and a dull moment. Every day is different and a new learning experience. No matter what we do, it is about those differences we make and touch the lives of people every day. This is what keeps me going.
Is there any advice you would give someone who wishes to study nursing?
Yes. Please do not study forcefully, do it with a purpose. Just as a pilot needs to have a vision about his landing destination, we must have a vision too. Nursing has many branches and so much to offer in terms of learning. Even if you did not like one area, you could always try another. You will find your way eventually. But you must love to work with people. Everyone can get the job done, but not everyone can make a real difference.
Look at me, I am a single income earner in the family paying mortgage and bills and still pursuing a master’s degree in mental health nursing while my wife is still a final year student nurse. And we also raise two kids with one needing additional care. Follow your dream and the sky is the limit. It is all about your passion and discipline. Hard work always pays off for sure.
Do you like to do anything on your spare time?
To avoid heavy reliance on social media where people often solely express their frustrations over community issues, I continue to volunteer and directly liaise with government leaders to advocate for issues such as schooling, roads, and infrastructure needs. There have been some fruitful outcomes in such involvements, and some are on the way. I believe in approaching the right person, at the right time, with the right purpose. It’s called a bottom-up approach in policy making.
Thank you, Nabin, for sharing such an inspiring story with us. Radisson Blu Plaza Sydney is proud to have you among its alumni and we wish you continued success in your career.
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The history of High Tea fashion.
Afternoon Tea, or High Tea, first came into fashion in England in the 1840s, an idea sprung from the mind of Anna Maria, Duchess of Bedford, who wanted to fill the long gap between luncheon and the fashionably late 8 pm dinner meal, and ordered tea, bread and jam to her bedroom during the afternoon. She began to invite friends to join her and the trend quickly spread among aristocratic society. Anna continued her tradition when visiting London, inviting her great friend the Queen to join her. Queen Victoria enjoyed the afternoon tea so much she began to have her own afternoon tea, with her favourite delight being a light sponge cake with fresh raspberries, famously becoming known as the Victoria Sponge.
As the tradition spread and afternoon tea gatherings became more popular, ladies began dressing in finery to attend, and the affair was moved into the drawing-room, where tea was served with silver teapots and bone china cups, around relaxing low tables and parlour chairs. In summer the tradition moved to the large immaculate gardens of aristocratic homes, and by then had become an upper-class tradition. Drinking tea was also seen as a ‘coming of age’ for young ladies, drinking tea was a sign of maturity for a young woman showing they could behave appropriately amongst society.
The working class had their own version of High Tea which was a very different affair. In the Industrial Revolution, and with the invention of artificial lighting working hours became longer, and dinner was served later in the evening. They too needed something to keep them going through the long afternoon hours and began to take a short break standing or sitting on tall stools, the beginning of the expression ‘High’ Tea. As years have passed and the social gap between working-class and high society has reduced, Afternoon Tea or High Tea has become one and the same, and something to be enjoyed by all.
Ever wondered how tea became the national drink of Britain?
In 1662 King Charles II married a Portuguese Princess, Catherine of Braganza, and brought her to England. Princess Catherine had a famous love of tea, and made sure to bring it with her, and drank it in the English courts. At the time ale was the unofficial national beverage, and tea was something used for medicinal reasons. Catherine was immensely popular and spread the trend of tea drinking among the aristocrats, and with her marriage opened up new trading opportunities for Britain.
Tea was considered an expensive luxury, as it was shipped in from China or India, a long and treacherous journey by boat, and therefore it became an essential item in society to show off wealth and generosity to guests. Tea became in such high demand that merchant sailing boats, called clippers, used to race from China with the first crop of the year, to try and be first to arrive in London. The competitiveness of the tea clippers reached a peak in 1866 with The Great Tea Race, which was followed closely by the press and everyone in England. After a journey of over 14,000 miles, taking 99 days, three ships arrived in London within 2 hours of each other, such a close finish bringing even more hype and popularity to the tea commodity. Soon after this the ease and efficiency of the steam ship, and the opening of the Suez Canal made importing of tea much quicker and easier, and the popularity of tea has remained ever since, making it a staple in every English home.
Devonshire Tea vs Cornish Tea, which method is correct?
Devonshire Tea, Cornish Tea, or Cream Tea is a well-known version of afternoon tea, consisting of scones with jam and cream. It is difficult to determine if the Devonshire or Cornish Tea came first, and there is also strong rivalry as to the correct method of eating scones. The Devonian Method is to split the scone in half, cover the scone in clotted cream, and then add strawberry jam on top. The Cornish method, however, is to split the scone in half, spread with strawberry jam, and then top with clotted cream. So what do you think is the ‘correct’ way?!
Today High Tea is a popular event in Australia as well as England and can be found in luxury hotels and venues around the world. Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney has just launched its brand new 2022 menus, featuring our signature Traditional High Tea, as well as Vegan High Tea, Gluten-Free High Tea, and Kids High Tea, now available to book on our new booking page: https://blugifts.com.au/products/signature-high-tea-experience
High Tea is also the perfect occasion for a group celebration such as a birthday, bridal shower, or baby shower, and Radisson Blu Sydney offers group high teas with private function room hire.
Author: Joanna McGuiness
]]>At our end-of-the-year-round-up, we’ve asked our leadership team what the trends and challenges for the Radisson Blu Plaza Sydney are in 2022. They look into their crystal ball and share the challenges we will face.
The biggest challenge we will face in 2022 is uncertainty. After a very tumultuous two years, we still have so many factors beyond our control that impact market demand. These include the implications of any new COVID variant (just look at what happened with Delta and what is happening with Omicron), the flow-on effects to travel, Border restrictions (domestic and International), and overall travellers' willingness to travel. We need to be able to have some stable and ongoing trends to build accurate forecasts on bringing the business back up. We subscribe to and rely on technology more than ever before, but even with all the artificial intelligence at our disposal, it is all about wishing to have all the possible answers about the future.
One of the challenges facing the hospitality industry in 2022 will be retaining employees and finding new talent. The tourism and accommodation industry were hit hard by COVID-19, and people lost their job during the pandemic, decreasing employees’ confidence in the reliability of a job in hospitality. Due to this, a large part of the workforce is moving on to more secure sectors of employment such as healthcare or construction. In addition, the conditions and expectations have changed, both for hotel management and staff, and now employees are more prompted to re-think their priorities when it comes to work/life balance.
As an industry, we will have to design new techniques to retain top skills and talents, adopting processes that will see the worker’s productivity and morale boosted. Opportunity and career advancement, incentives, or flexible and favourable work schedules are among the ways to keep motivating employees.
“It’s not about the end, it’s the journey”. Well, it’s not about the hotel and the destination, it’s the experience. Offering clean rooms and perfectly designed services are no longer enough to maintain guest satisfaction; they are asking for more. New technologies, globalization, and the digital era have empowered the customer and increased the desire for more personalized traveling and lodging experiences.
To stay competitive in the future, we will be challenged to find a new way of branding ourselves that doesn't involve a single sign or logo on the building. We will have to set ourselves apart by providing unique designs, superior customer service, novel experiences, and offering locally sourced drinks and food. We need to generate memorable activities and mobilize social media traffic to improve the client experience.
Today, the conference and events industry is going through a period of transformation, The way we think about meetings and events is changing drastically. New technologies and meeting formats are challenging the traditional ways of conducting events and conferences. Virtual meetings are becoming more and more popular with planners and attendees alike. As a result, business travellers and corporate businesses are spending less budget on face-to-face events and conferences meetings, which has an impact on the hotel industry's revenue.
Our challenge at the Radisson Blu is to develop new strategies and implement new technologies and offer alternative meeting formats that allow guests and corporate businesses to meet and interact remotely from the hotel premises. Hybrid events and Hybrid rooms emerge as two additional options to consider in the face of disruption.
The hotel industry is changing, and the hospitality sector is looking for ways to remain competitive and maintain profit margins. Two years ago, we used to rely on full dining rooms, a steady stream of tourists, business travellers, conferences, and conventioneers, but nowadays, we must now find a way to do business without the usual crowds. That means adapting our revenue model to match our customer’s needs and new behaviour. We need to pivot toward new offerings that make sense for our customers and to our business.
6. Start from scratch in a new reality
After 18 months as part of the quarantine program, the Radisson Blu Plaza Sydney reopened to the public in November 2021, and we knew that this would be one of the most challenging and exciting moments for us and for the Hotel. The general feeling was that we were starting from scratch. While we are gradually returning to our regular operations, we have found difficulties training staff across all the departments to be able to deliver the consistent 5-star service our guests were used to months ago. We had to refresh the rooms, create new menus, practice social distance, wear masks, introduce rigorous health and sanitation protocols and put everything back together again in a short period. The hotel reopening has been a complex process particularly now when the industry is experiencing a significant transformation.
As we have seen, the Hospitality industry in 2022 will be vastly different from what it is today. This presents opportunities and challenges for hotel owners. While hotels today are already meeting some of these changes with the new technology that is being implemented, the accelerated pace of change and a new environment will require us to adapt quickly and proactively if we want to stay competitive in the global marketplace.
]]>It is the key to our future; allowing humans to coexist with our planet and causing the least amount of harm possible. In the 21st century we are blessed to have the knowledge that was not available previously, we now know the impact certain products and materials can have on our earth, we have access to sustainable alternatives, and can begin to repair the damage.
How can one person make a difference? You may wonder, but there are a number of ways you can make an impact, some of which you may already be doing:
This is definitely one you will already be participating in, just by your weekly grocery shop. In 2018 both Coles and Woolworths removed single use plastic bags and replaced them with reusable plastic bags, in just one year this caused an 80% drop in the use of single use plastic bags! Australia is also rolling out a plan over the next few years to eliminate other single use plastics such as straws, cutlery, and polystyrene food containers. The only difficult part is remembering to bring your bags with you to the supermarket!
Although 70% of the earth is covered in water, only 0.5% of that is available for drinking! Saving water can be as simple as limiting shower times, running the dishwasher only when it is full, turning the water off when you brush your teeth or wash the car. Taking simple steps to save water helps to minimise the effect of droughts which our country is all too familiar with, saves energy required to process and deliver water to our homes, as well as the energy (and cost) required to heat water.
Radisson Blu Sydney has rolled out water saving shower heads in our guest rooms, and reward guests with bonus Radisson Rewards points if they choose to opt out of housekeeping or re-use towels. Our hotel also collects left-over soap bars, which are donated to Soap for Hope who recycle them, and create new soap cakes to be distributed to vulnerable communities. In 2019, our hotel prevented 1090kg of soap from going to landfill.
There are many benefits of switching to an alternate source of power. Traditional electricity production uses thousands of litres of water per year, whereas generating power through solar panels, uses none whatsoever. Traditional electricity production uses fossil fuels to generate energy, which causes harmful carbon dioxide and methane gases, that lowers the quality of the air we breathe. Generating electricity from solar panels is carbon free, which helps to reduce the wider effect of climate change. We can offset up to 1 tonne of carbon dioxide for every megawatt hour of solar energy we use.
From July 2020, Radisson Blu Sydney has sourced its energy from wind and solar power, through Simply Energy. It has also become increasingly more simple and affordable to install solar panels at home, with a government rebate in place, many companies offering payment plans, and your excess energy can be sold back to the grid, so you can easily move to a solar power system in your own home.
Your choices can help to contribute to global sustainability, every person who chooses a company who has sustainability initiatives and carbon offsetting in place over one who doesn’t, helps to make a difference. Companies such as Coca-Cola, Disney, McDonald’s, Domino’s, Nike, Ikea, Google and Etsy – just to name a few! You can find a list of the top 100 companies here who participate in Carbon Offsetting to reduce their impact on the earth.
Radisson Hotel Group automatically offsets the carbon footprint of every single meeting and event taking place at any of our more than 1,100 hotels worldwide. Per year, Radisson Meetings will offset 38,300 tons of CO₂; which is the equivalent of taking 6,500 cars off the road every year. Radisson Blu Sydney is also the first hotel in Oceania to be Green Key certified, this award is the is the leading standard for showing excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainability within the hotel and tourism industry.
Yes, you read that correctly! Our day to day choices when it comes to what we eat, can also help to make a positive impact on our planet. Choose locally made products, help support Aussie farmers and businesses, and reduce your carbon footprint. Radisson Blu Sydney sources all perishables from local suppliers, which helps reduce our ‘food miles’; by using local produce, less transportation is required which reduces our carbon footprint.
Choosing groceries packed in environmentally friendly packaging, using refillable products and items which are not wrapped individually can be a big help too. At Radisson Blu we also support a local animal shelter by donating food wastage, and anything that cannot be donated, is composted using our Waste to Water system, which means less than 1% of our food waste goes to landfill. Incorporating vegan meals into our diet can also help to cut greenhouse gas emissions and energy, save water and preserve our environment.
It is not such a daunting prospect to incorporate sustainability into our day to day lives, and as you have learned you may be already contributing in more than one way. With some small steps and some simple changes, we can each play our part to make a more sustainable future.
To learn more about Radisson Hotel Group’s sustainability efforts and Think Planet initiative, please click here.
Quote source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sustainability#cite_note-2
]]>1. Hybrid Events
Beginning with travel difficulties both internationally and domestic, as well as those who choose to work from home; the Hybrid event was born. So what exactly is a Hybrid event? A Hybrid event is the combination of both a face-to-face event with guests attending onsite, as well as a virtual component. The beauty of a Hybrid event is it brings everyone together, regardless of location, takes away some of the hassles of planning accommodation, and last minute attendance issues. A Hybrid event can be as simple as a board meeting with some guests joining virtually, or a large conference with multiple speakers joining and presenting virtually. To read more about Hybrid solutions, click here. https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/meeting-conference-hotels/types/video-conferencing
2. Engagement
A question you might be asking yourself is how to get the same level of engagement with a Hybrid event, if not all attendees are in the same room? It may seem daunting to begin with, but keeping in mind the need to involve your virtual attendees, there are a number of ways to encourage your virtual attendees to participate in your event, such as online Q&A sessions for both virtual and onsite attendees. As your virtual attendees will miss out on the benefits of being in the venue itself, why not send them a conference pack in advance with a notepad and pen, merchandise and conference materials, and some snacks or treats. Your attendees will feel as much as part of the event and those on site! Make sure you schedule plenty of breaks too, to cater for those watching on through a screen.
3. Room set up
4. Serving food
To give you further peace of mind, many hotels partner with hygiene companies; Radisson Hotel Group partners with SGS, meaning our health and safety standards worldwide are of the highest level, giving you confidence to book your event. (link to SGS and image/logo) Make sure you check with your chosen venue about their cancellation policy – just in case the worst should happen! 2021 has brought flexible cancellation policies to most hotels and venues, taking away some of the worry in planning future events.
Planning an event in 2021 requires thinking outside the box, new technologies and embracing of change, but with so many options at your fingertips and venues ready and raring to go, you are all set to plan your most successful event yet!
When:
08 - 20 June, every night between 5.30pm - 8.00pm
Where:
Sydney Opera House
Price:
FREE
More details:Click here to see the line up
Image by Anna Kucera
When:
Public Art Installation: 8 – 26 June (3pm – midnight)
Dance Demos: 11, 12, 13 and 17, 18, 19 June (6-9pm)
Where
Museum of Chinese in Australia, Haymarket
Price:
FREE
More details:
Click here
When:
20 June from 5-5.45 pm
Where
MCA
Price:
FREE
More details:
Click here
When:
Friday 18 June (5pm - 9pm)
Saturday 19 June (1pm - 5pm)
Sunday 20 June (1pm - 4pm) - Grand Finale
Where
The Rocks
Price:
FREE
More details:
Click here
When:
8 – 20 June
Where
YCK Laneways
Price:
Some FREE some PAID
More details:
Click here
We knew our guests had not chosen to stay with us, more a matter of necessity, we struggled to find a way to continue to show our ‘Yes I Can!’ spirit while limited by the necessary restrictions. A hotel that was full, still felt empty with public areas devoid of people, and a lack of human interaction.
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As we all know, more than a year ago the world was turned upside down with the Covid-19 pandemic effecting countries far and wide. As Australia did its best to combat the virus we were faced with a new, uncomfortable but necessary normal – quarantine.
As a 5-star hotel our driving force is providing professional service, stylish and comfortable facilities for our guests to enjoy, top class in-room dining, restaurant and bar facilities, and a personal touch by all of our hotel departments. Faced with running a quarantine facility, all of these key factors which are part of our nature were suddenly limited, but our team took on the challenge admirably.
On average our kitchen produces 1,200 individually packaged meals per day, 7 days a week for our quarantine guests, as well as onsite police, NSW Health and staff. One third of those meals are specifically cooked for guests with dietary requirements ranging from gluten free, dairy free, vegan, vegetarian, keto, diabetic, high carb, low carb, no carb, high protein, low sugar, Kosher, Halal, and any other allergen you can think of! And all this with only 7 chefs in the kitchen, covering 14 shifts. What most people don't know is that all meals are made in-house, including desserts!
See below our pastry chefs in action, baking and packing toffee nut sponge cake ready to serve for dessert.
Our elegant Marble Room, which was previously the home of some of our largest conference, meeting and cocktail events, is now filled with a food and beverage team that runs like clockwork, preparing, packaging and delivering over 300 meals, three times a day, day in and day out.
At set times per day, our efficient team prepares the food packages per floor for delivery, quickly distributing individual meals to each room. Once the food packages are delivered, our team knock on the doors and clear the floor to avoid any contact with guests. With a maximum 2 hour window for each mealtime, we have approximately 18 seconds per room to get the food from the assembly line up to the room!
@danagilden89 Brekki Time ##aussiethings ##laugh ##hotelquarantine ##hotelquarantinefood ##foodlover ##quarantinefooddiaries ##bidud ##sydneyaustralia ##sydneyquarantine
♬ original sound - Dana Gilden
It’s a daunting thought spending 14 days straight in a small space, but our guests have become very creative in ways to keep entertained. We have guests following fitness programs, connecting with family and friends via video calls, getting creative with arts and crafts or learning something new. Here are Jade and Greg, one of our recent quarantine guests, sharing their top 5 tips of surviving hotel quarantine!
To make the stay bearable, we've made sure our televisions are equipped with mental and physical exercises for our guests to follow and we have also been delivering activities each day such as puzzles, quizzes and crosswords. However, the below photo paints an accurate picture of just how active some of our guests are!
Amount of exercise bikes being rented for a 2-week period.
With the road to recovery stretching further than hoped, it’s become even clearer that for planners to succeed, adapting to an agile framework that already anticipates last-minute change is essential for both industry and planners to thrive. Flexibility is no longer a nice-to-have; the option of attending events in-person or remotely must be on every business’ radar. And it’s not merely a fast fix for restrictive situations either. Hybrid solutions are here for the long term.
Organisations, venues and professionals occupying this space will benefit greatly from letting go of the past and seizing the opportunity that lies ahead. The key is smart prioritisation. We discovered what matters from some 700 event planners across 11 markets, to bring you a definitive understanding of the priorities and possibilities for events in 2021.
Given the speed of industry change, there’s a growing demand for new skills and training that enables new technologies to be integrated into the event space. The demand for this is two-fold. First, to enhance the experience and opportunities for engagement from attendees. Then, from a data perspective, enlisting the right tools to accurately measure event metrics. In our survey, 43% of planners we spoke to saw metrics on digital event performance as an opportunity, which means that pre-and post-event communications, remote feedback, business leads and real-time interactions will all gain importance as key performance indicators going forward.
Heading off-line, trainings in hygiene and safety protocols remain essential to ensure attendees stay safe, healthy and aligned to current measures.
In order for your hybrid event to offer the same depth of experience whether you’re in-person or remote, creating a flexible, interactive environment amongst all attendees is key. Online networking spaces are fast becoming an essential component for hybrid events, while high caliber speakers with compelling content have the power to hold the attention of all attendees.
According to some 53% of planners surveyed, access to quality interactive technologies will give your online guests more ways to participate and ‘step into’ the experience. As one business director declared, “Don’t just run panel after panel – give participants a voice and get them to interact.” Of course, this applies to both the offline and digital realms.
As planners and venues continue to adapt and grow in this changing space, greater support and collaboration are being naturally woven into the planning process. Some 76% of planners surveyed intend to co-create more events with venue providers, which signals a growing need to lean on venues like Radisson for their ability to solve last-minute problems, like ironing out digital glitches with on-site support or being able to quickly change or modify locations at short notice. Similarly, this also speaks to a desire for longer-term partnerships and creative collaborations, where venues can inspire you to execute the optimal event environment.
From hybrid multi-site meetings to broadcasting events, Radisson Meetings provide a seamless delivery of events that are efficient, effective, and engaging. Integrate our cutting-edge in-room technology for small meetings, or for more complex requirements we’ll help you liaise with leading technology partners so that audiences spread across your remote locations benefit from a consistent, memorable experience.
Interested in our hybrid solutions? Contact Joanna on jmcguiness@radisson.com to learn more about our Hybrid solutions.
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Mental WellnessA mindfulness practice helping you to slow down and come into a greater awareness of your body, bringing your attention to the present and creating a balance of body and mind. Escape your busy life and active thoughts.
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1. BALANCE
In this exercise the aim is to achieve a sense of balance. A balance of body and mind.
In this recording we will be creating a way to access good positive feelings on demand so that any time you need a boost of positive feelings you will be able to access those feelings easily.
In this exercise we will be focusing on consciously breathing with a longer exhale than inhale for the purpose of quickly and effectively accessing deep relaxation.
Research has shown that the tool of visualisation can significantly improve performance and success. Therefore, in this recording, you will be guided to imagine yourself achieving a goal and visualising its successful completion.
Physical WellnessA blend of high-intensity, therapeutic, corrective and relaxation exercises to realign your body and mind, rectify the strains of your daily routine and recover from the stress and strain of a busy lifestyle. |
A blend of physiotherapy, corrective and pre-habilitation exercises to realign your body and mind, rectify the strains of your daily routine and recover from the stress and strain of a busy lifestyle.
A full body, Plane Training workout designed to activate large muscle groups, increase energy levels and release a cascade of feel good hormones. Prepare to take on anything, any time.
A gentle yoga-based workout to improve flexibility and circulation, enhance your quality of sleep and release tension. Bend, breathe, stretch, relax and reconnect with your true self.
A high-intensity, body weight workout to train your body in a way that is complementary to its natural design and function. Build strength, speed up your metabolism and burn fat.
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For months it was unsure whether our yearly snaps with the big jolly man in red would even be on the books, however it looks like most of the major retailers are expecting Santa albeit some extra steps and precautions. Customers will be seated at a safe distance from Santa and the traditional portrait image will be replaced with a landscape shot to allow for physical distancing. We've done some research and found the below 4 major Retailers offering Santa photos! Don't forget to plan ahead though. Book your session online as limited spots are available due to COVID restrictions. Happy snapping!
The fireworks display is one of the biggest events on Sydney’s calendar. But after a year of COVID restrictions and social distancing, we wondered if it would happen at all this year.
Although the 9pm fireworks have been cancelled, the main display event at midnight won't be! To avoid massive crowding, the NSW government is reserving prime viewing positions in the harbour for frontline workers. This is in a gesture of thanks for all the frontline workers efforts during the bushfires and pandemic this year.
The NSW government also plans to lock down the city, allowing only those with tickets to enter. Hospitality venues in the CBD will be restricted to workers and those with pre-booked tickets. The current plan is that workers and patrons will need to register for a permit to enter the Sydney CBD and all others will be turned away. Most of the usual vantage points will be roped off or inaccessible. For more information, you can visit the NSW Government website for the most recent updates on Sydney's NYE 2020 plans as they happen. (Source: Lifehacker)
“2020 has been a tough year for everyone. New Year’s Eve celebrations will be a symbol of hope and optimism for next year. It is also an opportunity to thank people across NSW who have stepped up during this difficult time.” - NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian
Whether you get to enjoy the fun of an office Christmas party will likely depend where you live and how many people can gather.
In Queensland, an office Christmas party looks more likely with fewer restrictions currently in place on group gatherings and venues. All patrons in food and drink venues must currently be seated when eating or drinking however nightclubs can operate in accordance with an approved plan. Click here for more information on QLD restrictions.
Victoria remains under the harshest restrictions in the country however on 8 November some restrictions were eased. Indoor gatherings were capped at 40 patrons per venue, subject to the 1 per 4m2 rule and a maximum group size of 10. Hopefully, from the 22 November onwards this will be increased to 100 patrons per venue and a maximum group size of 20 patrons.
If you live in Western Australia, your chances of having an office Christmas party are high given the state's current COVID-19 situation. Cheers to that! (Source: 9news, nsw.gov.au, qld.gov.au, vic.gov.au, sa.gov.au)
Heading to the beach this summer will be very different. Entry will be restricted during busy times and drones will patrol some coastlines to ensure there is social distancing.
Big sales, big crowds, big profits—holiday shopping is big business. Many stores typically depend on strong sales in Q4 to hit their annual goals and put them on a path towards future growth.
But like nearly everything else in 2020, holiday shopping this year will be anything but typical.
Here are five ways holiday shopping will be different in 2020:
Most years, the unofficial start of holiday shopping is Black Friday, but this year, it’s already begun in mid-October. Surveys have found that 3 in 10 shoppers will start their holiday shopping earlier than usual this year.
Instead of waiting until stores are crowded in mid-December, shopping early allows customers to be more socially distant and safe. Logistical problems of large, last-minute crowds can also be frustrating and expensive for retailers, who are encouraging shoppers to start early. Spreading out holiday spending also lessens the impact on shoppers’ wallets, many of which are already strained this year.
Instead of in-store door busters, the 2020 holiday shopping season will feature predominately online shopping. Many areas still have COVID-19 restrictions in place that limit the capacity and hours of stores. Most consumers still aren’t comfortable shopping in store and are instead taking their spending online.
Some estimates put holiday e-commerce sales growing up to 35% this year. To meet the demand, retailers are building out their digital capabilities with improved apps and online shopping experiences. Brands with strong digital offerings like intuitive mobile browsing, simple payment options, chat bots and accurate personalised recommendations will come out on top.
The huge growth of online shopping and deliveries will likely put additional strain on the logistics and delivery systems that are already reeling from COVID-19. Many consumers have come to expect shipping delays over the last six months, but they could become even worse during the last few months of the year. Some delivery companies are preparing for the holidays by hiring thousands more drivers, but the strain on an already fragile system could still impact customers, especially as some delivery companies increase their fees to cover additional costs for safety and cleanliness.
To alleviate the shipping delays, many retailers are emphasising their BOPIS (buy online, pick up in store) services and curb side pick-up. Customers may be more likely to purchase from stores where they can quickly pick up items instead of having to wait for deliveries.
One of the biggest questions surrounding holiday shopping this year is how much people will spend. With economic uncertainty and many people facing job losses or pay cuts, some shoppers may be spending less.
But at the same time, other surveys have found that 66% of consumers plan to spend the same amount on holiday shopping or even more this year. In many cases, consumers are willing to spend more to keep traditions alive. And with fewer people travelling over the holidays, consumers may have more money to spend on gifts.
What does this mean for the holiday shopping season? Spending will be uneven. Some consumers will be eager to have some sort of normalcy and spend their usual amount (or more) on gifts, while others will cut spending because of economic uncertainty.
Forget the typical gifts and stocking stuffers—this year, people will think outside the box. While retailers will still sell a large amount of clothes, shoes and electronics, experts are also predicting that consumers will flock to non-traditional gifts that can build relationships. After spending more time than normal at home, many consumers will give games, streaming service subscriptions and vouchers for future travel. People will also choose to pamper themselves at home with more health and beauty gifts. With the pandemic still in full effect, consumers will likely spend more on at-home fitness equipment, comfortable clothing and home décor to make the most of their time at home.
(Source: Forbes)
Book online at the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney for the ultimate weekend of exploration.
]]>Here are 5 simple ways to do just that.
]]>Here are 5 simple ways to do just that.
Almost all high-end hotels dress their beds in white linen, from duvet to spotless white sheets. But why white? It exudes a modern coolness and creates a calming focal point for your room that’s almost spa-like. However, make sure that the rest of your room isn’t too cold or stark. Warm accents around the bedroom can keep the space luxurious and cosy.
There is no better feeling than getting into a firm and crisply made bed every night. So here are 2 hotelier secrets so you can make your bed like a pro!
Triple sheeting
It involves layering your duvet between two starched sheets. This technique does not only create that crisp and clean feeling, it also gives you that 5-star hotel bed feeling !
The hospital fold
The hospital corner ‘look’ is essentially a beautiful crisp line that runs horizontally down the corner of your mattress. This technique is used to fold bedsheets in a way that is both aesthetically pleasing and difficult to kick off during the night. The hospital fold does require some practice but once you know how it’s done, you’ll never look back.
It’s not the expensive bedding or the stylish décor that make a five-star hotel so luxurious…. it’s the little details and the attention to tiny touches which will make you feel pampered.
Buy fresh & in-season flowers
No need to splurge on elaborate bouquets; just a small arrangement of
in-season flowers can work wonders for your space, lift your spirits and add life to your bed or bathroom.
Scented candles
Beautiful scents can make a room feel fresh and luxurious from the moment you enter. Use a gorgeous room spray or your favourite scented candle.
Glass & carafe of water
Leave a glass and a water carafe on your bedside table. To add a little extra, you can always add some orange or cucumber slices. It doesn’t only flavour the water, it looks beautiful as well!
Plush bathrobe & slippers
Robes and slippers are essential! Freshly launder your fluffiest robe and either hang it by the bed, or drape it across your bed. Arrange your slippers underneath ready to get cosy and comfortable.
Take away any clutter and keep the essentials. To create that lean yet comfy feel of a 5-star hotel, you have to embrace minimalism. That doesn’t mean you need to rid your bedroom of everything with sentimental value, but it may be time to part with the stray trinkets.
While you may not have a turn-down service available at home, you can recreate the experience by turning down the lights before going to bed, listening to some soothing music, pulling back the sheets or spraying some lavender scent on your pillows; making bedtime feel special.
Why not organise breakfast in bed on Sunday mornings to change things up? We all deserve to treat ourselves so get comfy, make yourself a decadent breakfast and listen to some jazzy tunes to complete the experience.
]]>So, if you’re going to do the Eastern Suburbs in a day it’s best to consider what you want to do and see, because you will certainly be spoilt for choice. The area is made up of a host of Suburbs with the beaches being the most known; Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly, Coogee and Maroubra.
While areas such as Double Bay and Paddington, are part of the Eastern Suburbs we’ve intentionally left them off this list as there is already too much to do, so we recommend leaving those areas for another day. So lets get started at the Southern end and following the coast walk, start heading north.
Maroubra
Home of the infamous surf gang ‘Bra Boys’, Maroubra is a long stretch of sand that is the southernmost Beach of the Eastern Suburbs. Less crowded than some of the more popular beaches, it is a great location to watch the sunrise over the horizon, take an early morning swim or catch a wave – just make sure you don’t drop in on a Bra Boy beforehand.
To the right of the Beach you’ll notice one of the last untouched Headlands of the coastline. This area, known as Malabar Headland is owned by the Commonwealth and harbours the oldest active rifle range in Australia, and during World War II served as a Defence Battery and outpost. What many people don’t know is how the area received it’s name, which was from a shipwreck (the MV Malabar) which grounded off Long Bay in 1931. Since then up to 7 other ships have come to an end off the sandstone coast of Malabar in treacherous conditions.
The area has some of the most spectacular coastline in Sydney with the dramatic sandstone cliffs providing an epic platform from which to view both north and south of the coast. While not an official area for hiking (definitely pay attention to the signs and if red flags are flying this means the rifle range is firing live ammunition and the area is off limits) you can make your way through some of the rare Port Jackson scrub (it’s not that difficult) and walk around the entire coastline stopping in at the Battery on the way. This is a walk that isn’t often on the tourist trail and the battery itself is interesting as much for the eerie reminder of when Sydney was prepared for attack, as much as it is for the examples of graffiti that adorn it. Oh, and don’t forget the view.
Coogee
Coogee really doesn’t get the wrap it deserves, and sits in the shadow of it’s sister Bondi, but that’s not a bad thing as you’ll find more locals here than tourists and it’s just as much if not more pretty than Bondi – just a little (only a little) less crowded.
Historically a seaside resort linked by Tram from the city, the word Coogee is a local Aboriginal word for “Smelly Place” or in the Bidigal language “the smell of seaweed drying”. While not the most appealing name, it is certainly a beautiful beach.
At the southern end of the beach, you find tidal pool Wylie’s Baths; built in 1907 by Henry Wylie, the raised boardwalk above the pool is an excellent place to admire the Bathers, or get down for a quick dip if you didn’t take the plunge at Maroubra.
As you travel north, you’ll pass the kids playground and come to the top of the beach where you’ll have expansive views across to the bay to Dolphin Point and the Old Giles Baths, and be able to see Wedding Cake Island in the centre of the beach.
If you’re here in the afternoon or evening, the Coogee Bay Hotel is a well known watering hole with spectacular views and the beer garden outside is the perfect place to quench a thirst or grab a bite at the Brasserie. Weekends see the place packed out as the beachgoers shun bikinis and speedo’s for designer threads, and stay well in to the twilight hours.
However, while there are streets of cafes and food options along opposite the beach, one of the best ways to enjoy Coogee is to grab a take away fish and chips (highly recommend is A Fish Called Coogee located at 229 Coogee Bay Road) and sit on the beach watching the passing parade of sun-kissed bodies.
And while we’re on the topic of food, we’d be amiss not to mention the recently opened Coogee Pavilion located at the northern end of the beach on the site of the Coogee Palace and Aquarium. Sighted by it’s domed Roof, the Coogee Pavilion is the latest instalment in Justin Hemmes / Merivale’s vast Hospitality empire. Whether you’ve wandered in off the beach dripping wet and sandy for an organic juice, hunkering for aphrodiasatic oysters, needing your beard trimmed, picking up a bunch of flowers, carb-loading on Pizza, or entertaining the kids with a gigantic scrabble game – the Pavilion has it all. And newly opened is it’s rooftop featuring Executive Chef Jordan Taft’s Mediterranean fare complimented by epic views. Yep, more than one reason to stop by.
Gordon’s Bay and Clovelly
On the way to Bronte from Coogee you’ll come across one of the most picturesque snorkelling spots; the pocket-sized Gordon’s Bay. A hidden oasis of clear water sheltered from the surf, here you’ll find million dollar homes atop the cliffs whilst families and groups picnic on the rocks below.
As you wander further north you’ll come across what seems like a large ocean pool but is actually Clovelly beach. Flanked by concrete promenades, popular for sunbaking, the area is also popular for snorkelling with an abundance of marine life inhabiting the area – especially the large Blue Grouper. And if all the sun, sand and snorkelling has gotten you thirsty, just up the road is the Clovelly Hotel which has a superb beer garden to unwind in.
Bronte and Tamarama
Leaving Clovelly behind, you’ll walk along the coast through Burrows Park and reach what has to be one of the most amazing locations to be six feet deep – Waverley Cemetery. A view that is certainly wasted on the departed, the Cemetery boasts ornately carved gravestones and has spectacular views up and down the coast. So as to not disturb those who have shuffled off the mortal coil, a boardwalk was installed several years ago on the edge of the cliff providing a further spectacular experience as you wander pass native fauna on one side over crashing waves below.
Whatever time you reach Bronte Beach, you’ll see it alive with activity. Surfers out for a paddle, the upper echelon of Eastern Suburbs wealth in the cafe’s rubbing shoulders with the hipster cool and 5th generation working class, and families enjoying picnic’s in the park; it is all happening in this little cul-de-sac of Beach.
For the fit and active, if you’re a Bodyboarder the Bronte shorebreak isn’t Waimea, but certainly is fun, while stand-up surfers should head for the right hander of the Reef at the Southern end.
For those who might need a coffee or something more substantial, the Cafes close to the beach and nearby here have become a major drawcard for the area in addition to the Beach itself. Places such as Three Blue Ducks and Bronte Road Bistro are regularly among some of Sydney’s ‘best of’ dining establishments and well worth a pit-stop. If a sit down meal isn’t your fancy, then stop off for the best Sourdough Bread in Sydney from Iggy’s. You’d be forgiven to think that bread was being rationed as the line for this popular bakery is sometimes up the street.
Leaving Bronte behind and continuing north you’ll come across another stretch of sand known as Tamarama. A cute little beach, popular with swimmers and Bodyboarders (no stand-ups here unfortunately), the walk is a peaceful stroll along the clifftops as you keep the ocean to your right through McKenzie’s Beach and on to your final destination – Bondi.
Bondi
Finally, you have arrived at what is one of Australia’s most stereotypical beaches – Bondi. Coming to Sydney and not making a pilgrimage to this beach some would say is akin to going to Paris and not seeing the Eifel Tower, some would say it’s too full of British Backpackers. But whatever your thoughts on this stretch of sand, as you reach the southern side and look north across its golden sand littered with hot bods in bikini’s, waves crashing on the shore, it’s hard not to appreciate just how beautiful this part of the world really is.
The Beach is what you’re here for so take it all in, get your photo’s, and soak up the sun. You really should get in the water, catch a wave, and spend an hour or two sunbaking if you haven’t already. You might even spot a Bondi Lifeguard.
Beyond the beach there is a lot happening, so don’t spend too much time lazing about. The Bondi Skatepark is home to the Vans Bowl-a-rama taking place from February 17th through to 21st and will include such well known professional skateboarders as Tony Hawk, Steve Caballero, and current world champion Pedro Barros. Whether you can kickflip or just want to kick it while watching the best in the business get high above the coping, this is an event that is not to be missed.
While along the promenade, don’t forget to check out the ever changing open-air gallery of Graffiti that legally adorns the walls. Some of the images by Australia’s top Street Artists are the perfect backdrop to compliment that selfie of you down by the water.
If Graffiti isn’t your thing, perhaps the photographs by Aquabumps are. More than 16 years of taking early morning surf photos along the Eastern Beaches and more recently the world, Eugene Tan (aka Uge – pronounced Yooj) has a gallery of his work which is a must see / buy.
And while we’re on the topic of shopping, boutiques such as Carousel, Electric Monkey, Girl & Graaf, Shop U,Jasnaltn, Tuchuzy are some of our favourite places to spend some coin. From vintage flare to homewares, one off jewelry and designer threads, these places have got you covered. And if those options aren’t enough, the Bondi Markets are not to be missed. Saturday’s see the Farmers Market (9am – 1pm) offering fresh produce from the paddock all the way to you (to then get on the plate), plus an array of freshly made items where you can grab breakfast and sit in the grounds of Bondi Beach Public School. Sunday’s (10am – 4pm) however, is a different affair, when the Market stalls change selling artwork, homewares, jewelry, fashion and accessories by local designers. This is less about tourist souvenirs and more about discovering the latest in what’s cool.
If you’ve been out all day then it’s certainly time for a cool refreshing beverage. While stalwart faithfuls such as the Beach Road Hotel, Bondi Hotel, Ravesi’s, North Bondi RSL are popular with crowds of all ages, it’d be hard to go by the Bucket List for its location (right on the beach); tunes (a little bit of boogie and a little bit of chill); atmosphere (relaxed and fun, encompassing the Bondi lifestyle); and the people (cool, very cool); this is somewhere you should definitely stop and watch the sky turn purple as the sun sets.
If you haven’t eaten by now, then you need to stop, take stock and make the hard decisions of where to grab a bite. Is it institutions like Icebergs, Bills or Bondi Trattoria. Or perhaps newer players such as A Tavola, Pompei’s, Shuk or Fishmongers.
And after dinner if you’re still keen for a kick-on Bondi Hardware, Bondi Picnic, Neighbourhood, 34 Degrees South, or Bondi Social are all great options to finish off the night with a cleansing ale. Or just listen for where the tunes are cranking and the people are heading to, because in Bondi, most nights of the week are a party.
Don’t forget to book your 5-star Sydney accommodation at Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney
]]>Here are their top 6 tips including popular attractions, secret underground cocktail bars, and everything in between.
]]>Here are their top 6 tips including popular attractions, secret underground cocktail bars, and everything in between.
So, Let’s see what you can see and do in Sydney today.
Blink twice and you’ll miss it! Tucked away between George street and Pitt street, in the Angel Place laneway, you’ll find the art installation, Forgotten Songs, by Michael Thomas Hill. It’s easy to bypass but if you turn slightly off the beaten path, you won’t be disappointed. This Angel Place art installation is filled with the chirps of dozens of birds once found in the Sydney area before the European settlement. A beautiful tribute represented by 120 birdcages that hang in the air accompanied by speakers that play recordings of their birdsongs day and night.
The challenge of drinking at Door Knock is finding it first. What looks like a concrete staircase leading to nowhere is actually the entrance to Door Knock. Follow the long hall all the way to the end and enter one of Sydney’s most secret cocktail bars. Feel utterly detached from the world above and enjoy one of their famous cocktails for an after-work time out.
Millions of people have flocked through the doors of Madame Tussauds worldwide since they first opened over 200 years ago and it remains just as popular as it ever was. There are many reasons for their enduring success, but at the heart of it all is good, old-fashioned curiosity. So why not get up-close and personal with your favourite celebrities?
Located on the shores of Sydney Harbour in the suburb of Mosman lies the world-famous Taronga Zoo with over 5,000 animals from 350 different species. Due to Covid-19 your visit will look a little different such as closures to keeper talks and animal encounters however there is still plenty to do and see!
Our Concierge team has many tenured members, who have incredible knowledge of Sydney and the perfect suggestions to add on your next stay with us. Luggage help? No problem. Need to book tickets or a restaurant reservation? Done. Don’t hesitate to ask them for any assistance you may need, the team is always happy to help!
]]>All you need is some store cupboard staples, plus a few fresh ingredients and you’re good to go!
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It started in experimental restaurant kitchens, soon flourishing every which way. Chefs cooking with foam and gels made these exciting textures quirky and “out of this world”, which were made famous by chefs such as Ferran Adria and Heston Blumenthal in their respective restaurants. Soon, it was becoming trendy to cook the lightest foams and most peculiar of flavours to elevate dishes.
There once was a time without ‘celebrity chefs’, believe it or not. As television became more popular and shows easier to produce, saw the creation of more food-centric television shows. Introducing popular faces such as Jamie Oliver, Nigella Lawson, Ainsley Harriott and for local faces, Iain Hewitson, Matt Moran, Pete Evans and Manu Feildel.
Speaking of celebrity chefs, our previous on-site restaurant was managed by the late chef Tony Bilson, featuring Manu Feildel as the head chef. Bilson had approached Feildel in 2004 to assist with the restaurant opening. Six years on, Feildel had elevated our restaurant, Bistro Fax to 3-hatted fame thanks to his celebrity chef status and skills!
Later on in 2004, chef Tony Bilson was later approached with Manu Feildel to be Head Chef for the opening of Bilson’s, here at Radisson Blu Sydney!
It is fascinating what effect a global disaster such as the 9/11 attack can have on the world. What started as more of a trend in the US, there was an increasing popularity of comfort and home cooking, with people eating out less and staying in with friends and family. This brought more indulgent and hearty food coming back such as macaroni cheese, pot pies, baked goods and TV dinners soon spread around the globe with the rise of globalization. Restaurant chains such as Boston Market even expanded into the Australian market.
The “fine dining” concept took off in 2003
Artisanal chocolate started to become big in 2004, beyond your Dairy Milk bar
The interesting thing about sushi is that it has been prominent in Australia since the 1970s, however, it was either reserved for the fashionable or the health-conscious. Positively, Australian chefs were getting more creative with sushi creations, and it finally became a popular takeaway choice due to its convenience and light-nature.
To be more innovative and to reinvent common dishes, chefs decided to “deconstruct” their dishes and rearrange them on the plate so that consumers could enjoy and appreciate each component in a new light. The problem with this trend is that it got popular, fast, and quickly became overdone and uninspired.
In the late 10s, somehow burgers got bigger, better, crazier and more gourmet. This trend was and still is a global phenomenon, seeing the burger get a reputation outside of the typical fast-food joint. Slowly, hipster, artisanal, organic and alternative burger joints were opening, Shake Shack and Grill’d are two brands which expanding during this time. People started taking their burgers seriously and started turning their nose up at Big Macs. One success story is the nearby Bar Luca, one of the best burger shops in Sydney. (Conveniently only a 5-minute walk away!).
Chilli salt. Himalayan salt. Iodised. Table. Rock salt. Truffle salt. Kosher. Although it took a few years for fancy salts like pink Himalayan salt to become a pantry staple, 2009 marked the year it was finally commercially available to consumers in grocery stores.
The famous Radisson Blu coffee cart, found on the Hunter Street entrance from 2006-2014
The food truck trend is said to have been popularised in Los Angeles, USA, where they have always had a strong mobile food industry. Within Australia, the excitement surrounding food trucks and markets has only begun in the last few years, with the rise of mobile restaurants and social media advertising generating excitement due to their fleeting nature. Very on-trend!
Similarly, food carts also received a revival as ‘hipster’ style shops and eateries have become vogue. We even introduced a coffee cart parked outside of our hotel many years ago, which became a hit with the city regulars this end of the city. Claudia our current Bar Supervisor, was a well-known face out the front of our hotel daily, as she ran the cart through to 2014!
This serving of cured meats [charcuterie] has been around for thousands of years, however, the modern adaptation, called charcuterie board has been developed into a large spread of meat, cheese and accompaniments, used in parties and other social settings. It is a trend which drops in an out (which you might remember was in fashion in the early 2000s with glass platters, rather now in 2020 it’s about the most hipster wooden board you can find).
On May 10, 2013, in a small New York bakery, a baker launched her invention: the cronut. Three days later, she had a queue of 100 people outside waiting to try it after a blogger had posted about the food online. After nine days of selling her cronuts, the baker filed for a trademark on the product, and the cronut as we know it is known as on of the best ‘extremely fun’ inventions of 2013 by TIME magazine.
There has been a strong movement away from commercial beer and towards smaller craft batch-brewed beers. In Australia in 2018, it was reported by ABC that the nation has averaged one small brewery opening each week, a strong sign that craft brews will only become more popular in the future.
2015 was a year where healthy eating was ‘cool’ again. Quinoa was receiving a lot more press and attention for its nutritious properties and became the new superfood. Whilst kale was having a resurgence in popularity, starting as a hipster ingredient but soon being found in all innovative cafes globally. Kale became a media sensation on its own, featured in memes and clothing items, which exacerbated its popularity around the world. It has come a long way from being the decorative leaves in Pizza Hut restaurants.
One of the most memorable food trends to date has to be fermented foods, especially kombucha. What started as a home-made fermented, brewed tea has turned into the world’s new healthy soft drink alternative. Brands such as Remedy and Amplify are huge brands in Australia, and with such a fast pick up over the years, our hotel has even introduced six kombucha cocktails to excite our bar patrons and offer ‘something different’.
Other favourite fermented foods include kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles, kefir, and tempeh.
According to research by Roy Morgan in 2018, there is a growing trend with going meat-free, with 2.5 million of the Australian population identifying as vegetarian or almost vegetarian (12.1% of Aussies). Vegan Australia estimates there to be 400,000 vegans in the country, and even vegan food labeling has almost tripled in the past five years, showing a rise in demand for vegan products.
Doing a quick bit of research online, there is much speculation as to what will be the ‘in-foods’ this year. A few foods predicted to boom in popularity in 2020 include biltong – a South African air-dried jerky and low-alcohol beverages, with many spirit companies bringing out low-alcohol variants for consumer sale such as seltzers, tonics, and low alcohol gins. Other honourable mentions are “seacuterie” – cured seafood pastramis and Filipino BBQ which is predicted to be a hot cuisine this year.
A lot can change very quickly in the food scene, so without a doubt, we will surely see some interesting and resurfacing trends, it is just a matter of time!
(By Emma Hedges)
]]>Our hotel is proud to be the first Radisson hotel in the Asia-Pacific region to be Green Key awarded!
Green Key International is a leading global eco-label awarding their certification to hotels and other hospitality corporations that commit themselves to sustainable business practices. To qualify for Green Key certification, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney has passed stringent audits to ensure they meet the standards set out by Green Key International.
As part of the Radisson Hotel Group’s commitment to Responsible Business, here at Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney we abide by Think People, Think Community, Think Planet. This ethos outlines how we as a hotel can make contributions to various pillars, ensuring that we are making a difference to this world. Have a read below on the many Responsible Business initiatives our hotel and staff have implemented to achieve this Green Key award!
The hotel staff are the backbone of these principles and are very involved in CSR initiatives and critical in suggesting new ideas. Thanks to staff input and their own passions about the environment, the hotel has been using microfibre cloths in Housekeeping since 2007, drastically reducing the need for harsh cleaning chemicals and equipment. Consequently, 14.4 million litres of water have been saved due to this initiative!
Our Responsible Business Committee regularly meets to raise ideas and formulate plans to continue improving Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney’s efforts. Each department also creates fundraising events and initiatives to contribute to a range of causes throughout the year. The HR department has also started rolling out Responsible Business training to our entire hotel, increasing awareness of our changing landscape, and how we as a hotel can reduce our footprint.
Radisson Blu Sydney staff and leadership love to help the community and are actively involved in many activities. This is evident through our participation in Soap for Hope, a program that re-purposes used soap cakes from the hotel into new soap for local disadvantaged people in the community.
Their most recent event produced over 200 new soap bars for distribution to St Vincent de Paul charity, which distributed them to people in crisis housing. Many of the hotel staff volunteered their time to make these soap bars by hand!
For our Annual Gala Dinner this year, we raised AUD$46,647, going to The Smith Family to provide educational assistance to local children.
Throughout the Christmas period, the hotel is fund raising through several outlets to support Drought Angels which support drought victims in rural Australia.
The hotel is passionate about staying up to date with trends and concerns about our impact on the environment. The hotel is proud to announce an exciting new initiative and industry partnership by committing to sourcing 100% renewable energy for the property in 2020 with Simply Energy.
Other important power-saving initiatives include the installation of water-saving shower heads, awarding of bonus Radisson Reward points to guests who opt out of daily housekeeping and the replacement of plastic straws in the hotel with biodegradable straws.
Food waste is donated to a local animal shelter, with the hotel also being the first in Sydney to install a Waste to Water system. This food waste processing unit uses microorganisms to decompose waste and allows the hotel to have less than 5% of food waste going to landfill!
For more information on the hotel’s responsible business initiatives, follow our social media pages. Facebook: @radissonbluplazahotelsydney Instagram: @radissonblusydney
(By Emma Hedges)
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