The Avani difference
Avani Hotels & Resorts, one of Asia’s fastest-growing upscale brands, recently celebrated its continuing expansion into the Australian and New Zealand markets. The occasion took place at Sydney’s Firedoor restaurant.
The night’s menu, crafted by Executive Chef and Good Food Guides Citi Chef of the Year Lennox Hastie, featured blue mackerel, blood plum and celtuce, and octopus, smoked tomato and nduja as entrees, followed by mains of Murray cod, charred cabbage and pil pil, and and Wagyu rump cap, Roman beans and capers. The evening ended on a high with a beautiful mango, desert lime and hazelnut bombe.
In addition to enjoying the dishes, guests heard about the brand’s latest news, including openings in Adelaide in South Australia, Broadbeach on the Gold Coast and Auckland in New Zealand. Vice President of Operations for Avani Hotels & Resorts Javier Pardo says that since the brand’s launch eight years ago, Avani has seen tremendous growth.
"We offer our current and future partners different value compared to our competitors," says Javier. "Avani is targeting the new millennial mindset traveller who is looking to travel in style with comfortable accommodation but saving in value.
"We approach this through our innovative concept of balance, contemporary, functional but still playful and providing essentials such as comfort and warm atmosphere," he explains.
Javier relays the unique factors that contribute to the hotel and resort chain. This is also known as the ‘Avani difference’.
- Avani Space is a social space where travellers can unwind, work or enjoy the free wi-fi and coffee from Pantry@Avani.
- Room essentials include a high-quality bedding program.
- AvaniFit will be renewed in 2020 with a more upbeat workout space as well as a program for fitness-lifestyle travellers.
- Sustenance is part of Avani’s dining and drinking experience. The produce is locally sourced and inspired.
- Avani continues to provide warm hospitality service that is not intrusive.
In the upcoming year, Avani will be focusing on refining its attributes and solidifying brand positioning. It will also be securing development in central gateway cities. Javier notes that Avani will further be launching new initiatives in the fit and lifestyle space.
"Avani is targeting the new millennial mindset traveller that is looking to travel in style, comfortable accommodation but saving in value."
The business has other projects on its horizon; increasing its work with local artists through its AvaniMe Resident program, for one. This initiative allows locals to share their favourite go-to spots. It will also be perfecting its sustainable programs to help reduce or create upcycling opportunities.
On average, the brand opens 10 hotels each year. The newly developed property in Box Hill, just outside Melbourne’s city centre, has recently welcomed Avani Melbourne Box Hill Residences.
The property features 75 one- and two-bedroom suites with kitchens, along with hotel facilities such as a heated rooftop infinity pool, spa and onsite gym and sauna. Rates at Avani Box Hill Residences start from A$124 a night.
Avani also welcomed its first South Australian property in October – Avani Adelaide Residences, located on Franklin Street – comprising 76 studios and one-, two- and three-bedroom suites, each equipped with kitchen and laundry facilities.
Avani Adelaide Residences also include a heated pool, cinema, library and AvaniFit gym with steam room and sauna, along with a golf simulator. Rates at Avani Adelaide Residences start from $149 a night.
As the brand continues to expand, Javier confirms that this past year has been one of success. Avani has 15 new hotels in the pipeline, including properties in Malaysia, Vietnam, the UAE and Myanmar.
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