18 December 2016

International Road Trip :: Interview with Richard Schuetz, Bermuda Casino Gaming Commission

from Gaming & Leisure Magazine
Winter 2016 / 2017

Known for it’s pristine beaches and crystal clear waters, exotic Bermuda has welcomed sun-seeking tourists for many years.  Offering a welcoming, friendly culture with unsurpassed scenic appeal, the tropical island may soon be introducing casino gaming to the mix.


Gaming & Leisure Magazine
Winter 2016-2017
In recent weeks, I have had the priviledge to visit Bermuda and meet with Richard Schuetz, Executive Director of the Bermuda Casino Gaming Commission. I appreciate the time Richard has given to discuss the status of gaming on this tropical paradise.

[G&L]  You've had an extensive background in gaming.   Could you give us a bit on your global experiences in Casino gaming?

[RS]  I started in the casino business as a college student in Reno, Nevada in the early 1970s, dealing at Harrah’s from nine at night until five in the morning. Since that beginning I have worked in gambling in Reno, Tahoe, and Las Vegas in Nevada; Mississippi, New Jersey, Minnesota, and Louisiana in the United States; and in numerous jurisdictions around the world as a consultant.  On the academic side I have been lucky enough to teach Casino Management and Regulation in Macau and also in Switzerland, as well as numerous locations throughout the United States


Richard Schuetz
Executive Director
Bermuda Casino Gaming Commission
[G&L]  At the moment gambling and casinos are prohibited in Bermuda.   When did the push for legalized gaming begin?  What is the current status?

[RS]  It appears that the legalization of gambling in Bermuda has been a discussion topic for several decades.  It was finally legalized in December 2014 with the Casino Gaming Act.  The public policy goals of this legislation were to increase employment, investment and enhance the tourism product of the Island.  I was brought on board in September 2015 to establish the regulatory framework.  Since then my primary task has been to develop a series of amendments to the Act to cause it to be quicker to market, less expensive, demand fewer regulatory resources, while also making it more business friendly to the operators.  Once we get these issues with the Act resolved, we will address the regulatory package, and initiate the RFP process.

[G&L]  There are various national casino models that have been considered.  What is the most likely model under consideration?

[RS] Bermuda’s model is for integrated resort casinos, of which up to three will be allowed.  The participants can be an existing Island resort with over 200 hotel rooms, or new developments.

[G&L]  The church has a strong presence in Bermuda.  Has there been much interaction with the Church?


[RS] In our discussions with the different thought leaders on the Island we have made an effort to point out that there is currently a substantial amount of illegal gambling taking place on the Island, as well a great deal of gambling jobs, investment and tax revenues being exported off of the Island by way of Bermudians visiting North American and Caribbean casinos, and through the Internet.  

Our position that regulated gaming is better than unregulated gaming appears to be gaining traction. Also, a substantial trial for Bermuda currently concerns unemployment, and we believe that the development of a well-regulated integrated casino resort industry, and the jobs it creates, will definitely improve the social welfare of the Island, and this benefits all Bermudians.

[G&L]  Will, or should the locals be allowed to gamble?

[RS] There is nothing in the Casino Gaming Act that precludes Bermudians from gambling.  Whenever I have been approached on this topic, I always ask if the individual believes that Bermudians are incapable of making a good decision regarding enjoying this form of entertainment, or whether they should not be allowed to make this decision.  No one has ever answered that question.  We will also offer, as a part of our regulatory regime, a robust problem gambling program to mitigate and minimize the social costs imposed by the introduction of casinos.

[G&L]  How many casino properties are being considered?

[RS] The Act allows up the three integrated resort casinos.

[G&L]  Where will the casinos pull most of their guests from?

[RS]  The vast majority of tourists to Bermuda are from North America, and we see the introduction of the integrated resort experience enhancing their enjoyment of the Bermudian experience.  We also believe that we will gain a retail component from the locals, and because Bermuda has the fourth highest per capita GDP in the world, there is also higher-end potential.  

[G&L]  Are Sports Books expected to be a part of the gaming mix?

[RS]  I hope so.  Because of our proximity to the Eastern US, I believe that sports betting could be an important revenue and marketing tool for the Island resorts.  While we currently have betting shops on the Island, the regulatory and tax structure would have to be fundamentally changed, and we are currently addressing that possibility with the government.

Gaming & Leisure Magazine would like to thank Richard Schuetz for his time and contribution to this discussion on casino gaming in Bermuda.



02 December 2016

Lifestyle Nightclub :: QUI – The world of cuisine & Mixology

from Vietnam Golf Magazine
September 2016
www.vietnamgolfmagazine.net

Nếu bạn đang tìm kiếm một sự kết hợp hoàn hảo giữa không gian ẩm thực độc đáo với khu lounge đẳng cấp giữa Sài Thành sôi động, QUI sẽ là lựa chọn không thể bỏ qua.

Vietnam Golf Magazine
September 2016
Tọa lạc ở trung tâm Quận 1 trên con đường Lê Thánh Tôn sầm uất, QUI gây ấn tượng ngay với thực khách bởi lối kiến trúc hiện đại, hòa quyện của hai nền văn hoá Đông -Tây. Bằng tài năng thiết kế bậc thầy, LW Design Group đã mang đến cho QUI dáng dấp của một nhà hàng sang trọng nhưng vẫn đem lại cảm giác gần gũi bởi tông màu gỗ ấm cúng cùng kiểu dáng hiện đại, thanh nhã.

Trong không gian được thiết kế tinh xảo ấy, bạn có thể thưởng thức những món ăn Fusion mang hương vị đa dạng của nhiều nền văn hoá và tận hưởng những ly cocktail độc đáo chỉ có ở nơi đây. Với menu đầy sáng tạo, nơi đây là điểm đến lý tưởng cho từng nhu cầu đa dạng của thực khách, cho dù đó là bữa ăn trưa nhanh đơn giản nhưng ngon miệng, một buổi trà chiều thanh đạm, một bữa tối thịnh soạn hay những buổi brunch gặp gỡ cuối tuần.

Bên cạnh những món ăn tuyệt hảo, QUI còn mang đến cho thực khách một bộ sưu tập độc đáo với những loại rượu hảo hạng nhất và những ly cocktail mới lạ nhất, cùng với dòng nhạc Deep House, Hip Hop, RnB được trình diễn bởi những DJ tài năng.

QUI Lounge
Lancaster Building, 22 – 22bis Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1, HCM
Opening Hours: 11:00AM – late
Website: www.quilounge.com
Tel: 08 38 28 88 28

===== ENGLISH VERSION =====

Cuisine.Mixology is a concept of dining lounge; located right at the crowded Le Thanh Ton street of District 1. Conceptualized by the world-renowned LW Design Group, QUI’s design is sleek and luxurious in a warm tone of wood furnishings that is not only contemporary but also elegant.

In a sophisticated atmosphere, diners may enjoy Pan Asian inspired dishes and an inventive array of seasonal cocktails. The menu focuses mainly on small plates in a sharing style Asian fusion cuisine, which is perfect for a quick bite before a night out or a full meal shared with colleagues and friends. 

Alongside with the innovative food, QUI also offers an extensive selection of creative cocktails, premium wine, sake and Japanese whiskey. Patrons can enjoy the wide variety of drinks by the long bar as they mix and mingle. This trendy and energetic ambience is a perfect destination for culinary and mixology experience with live DJ’s playing every night. With attention to detail, QUI is sure to impress and satisfy even the most finicky of diners. 

"4 REASONS WHY QUI BECOMES A CULINARY DESTINATION YOU SHOULD NOT MISS"

-  Food:
All of QUI dishes are made and prepared by the talented chef from Dubai - Márk Molnár. Each dish is created by memories of his journeys throughout the world with diverse flavors and a bold Asian inspiration. Coming to Qui, you can find the familiar home made dishes or special flavors from the Marrakech bazaar, to the spankingly fresh Japanese cuisine, or a simply taste of Pho Saigon but in a very different way. Everything is fused together to create a familiar taste, but also very unique - a very QUI.

-  Cocktail:
Come for a drink at QUI, you will become a traveler in a journey explore the distinctive drinks for yourself. QUI brings you a diverse drink menu from the classic to the innovative cocktails created by our creative bartender team.  All the baristas are very skillful and we cannot ignore their extensive knowledge of combining the ingredients that they have accumulated over many years of experience and in-depth classes. Besides creating those exotic drinks, Qui also gives you the very eye-catching and unique decorations that you cannot resist at the very first sip.

-  Atmosphere / Interior: 
QUI – Cuisine.Mixology is a concept of restaurant and lounge; located right at the crowded Le Thanh Ton street of District 1. Conceptualized by the world-renowned LW Design Group, QUI’s design is sleek and luxurious in a warm tone of wood furnishings that is not only contemporary but also elegant.

A fusion funk approach to this Dining Lounge Concept embracing punchy color accents with bold graphic visual features; the merging of east & west design elements seamlessly. 

Comprising of 3 key spaces: the arrival terrace, booth lounging & the VIP library room. The focal central bar is the heart of QUI with oversized contemporary Asian street art adorning the walls offset by more traditional yet quirky furniture details. For those who want to celebrate their event in private, QUI offers you a VIP section with food showcase area. 

-  Music:
There is nothing more to expect in a wine restaurant and lounge besides tempting foods and special drinks, the answer must be the music. You can immerse yourself in the gentle relaxing space for lunch, or a little chillin 'for some cocktails and dinner and exciting night for the party weekend. At Qui, you can enjoy DJ music as diverse as deep house, RnB and Hip Hop...

QUI Lounge
Lancaster Building, 22 – 22bis Le Thanh Ton Street
Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCM, Vietnam
Website: www.quilounge.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/quilounge 
Phone: 08 38 28 88 28



22 November 2016

Hot Spot - The Legend Golf and Safari Resort - Limpopo Province, South Africa

from Hotelier Indonesia Magazine
November 2016, Issue 27
full issue at: http://www.youblisher.com/p/1595675-BHOTJASON/

The Legend Golf and Safari Resort is situated within the Entabeni Safari Conservancy in the malaria-free Waterberg Region of the Limpopo Province of South Africa, just a 35 minute flight or a two and a half hour drive from Johannesburg. This Resort is setting new standards in exclusivity and tranquillity and reflects the rich cultural legacy of this ancient part of Africa.

The Legend Golf & Safari Resort consists of an exceptional and unique 18-hole Signature Course, a luxury estate and many other facilities, situated on a Big 5 Game Reserve in the heart of the African bush.

RESORT SUITES

As the Legend Golf & Safari Resort Suites are built in the bush there are no fences or gardens within the resort grounds - just 220 wonderful rooms, built across the bush within the resort.

The suites, consisting of four or five individual bedrooms linked by walkways, offer accommodation of unmatched, timeless elegance dedicated to relaxation and reflecting the African wilderness. Bedrooms measure approximately 36.21 m2 in size (including en-suite).

Panoramic views are enjoyed through large picture windows while glass sliding doors lead onto a secluded outdoor patio. The generously proportioned bedrooms include a small seating area and luxurious en-suite bathroom with double vanity, spacious shower and separate bath.

The combination of design elements and high quality finishes ensure a uniform standard of luxury and elegance throughout the Resort.

ACTIVITIES

Game Viewing


The wildlife experience is impressive with more than 55 mammal species (including the big five, consisting of lion, buffalo, elephant, leopard and rhino) 300 plants species and 380 bird species....not to mention the wide variety of insects, reptiles and amphibians all co-existing in five spectacular diverse eco-systems including grasslands, bushveld, forests, mountains and river beds.

Endangered Wildlife Centre

The Legend Golf & Safari Resort Wildlife and Cultural Centre is a must visit. Here our White Lions live on purpose-built islands, there is no fence between you and the lions....a great photo opportunity. Also see two male Wild Dogs and a variety of other game. The centre also boasts a disease-free Buffalo Breeding Program, the Pedi Village African Cultural Centre and a Tea Garden with an abundance of Rescued Birds and Reptiles.

Helicopter Flights

Scenic flights of either 5 minutes or 12 minutes are on offer, with a flight path that takes one over the 22,000ha Entabeni Safari Conservancy. For an experience beyond comparison, combine an exhilarating helicopter flight with a romantic meal on a secluded mountain top and enjoy the indescribable natural beauty of the Waterberg.

Spa Facilities

Legend Health Spa & Wellness Centre offers a variety of treatments to ensure relaxation and revitalisation. Booking of spa treatments is only a phone call away and our reception will be delighted to make the arrangements for you. Treatment List available on request.

The Legends Golf - Signature Course

A world first!!! The golf course is designed as an 18 Hole championship golf course. It is the longest golf course in South Africa, providing golfers, irrespective of their handicap, the experience of a true African challenge. The course plays at 6,534 metres for daily play but is capable of being extended to 7,782 metres for tournaments, making it one of the longest in the world.

The course has flowing fairways which wind through the open grasslands and dense bush. The design and layout of the course are in complete harmony with the natural surroundings and the course remains one of the most environmentally sensitive in Africa.

The sheer scale of the golf course, the gently undulating greens and strategic bunkering ensures a unique golfing experience with breathtaking views of the Waterberg Mountains as a backdrop. On any given hole, a range of 5 tees allows the golf course to be set up for both professional and amateur players and creates the flexibility that one needs for an enjoyable golfing experience.

Concept

A world first 18 signature golf course that combines the design talents and strategic knowledge of the best golfers from around the world. A course that captures the scale and natural beauty of the site while ensuring an intimate golfing experience for golfers at all levels.

Design and Construction
  • The Legend Signature Course is a championship golf course that embraces its African location. The contouring of the fairways and greens mimic the surrounding mountains of the Waterberg.
  • A world first in that it has 18 signatures.
  • Grasses: Fairway – Kikuyu; Tees – Kikuyu; Greens – Bent and rough – indigenous grass mix.

A World In One Country - 18 Signatures

Each player gave strategic input on their respective holes and playing the course takes you on a journey around the world.

Hole 1 – Trevor Immelman, South Africa --Par 5, 472 metres to 579 metres
Hole 2 – Thomas Bjorn, Denmark -- Par 4, 381 metres to 472 metres
Hole 3 – Jim Furyk, USA -- Par 4, 357 metres to 490 metres
Hole 4 – Bernhard Langer, Germany -- Par 3, 110 metres to 200 metres
Hole 5 – Michael Campbell, New Zealand -- Par 4, 385 metres to 511 metres
Hole 6 – Colin Montgomerie, Scotland -- Par 4, 399 metres to 503 metres
Hole 7 – Mike Weir, Canada -- Par 3, 154 metres to 203 metres
Hole 8 – Camilo Villegas, Colombia -- Par 4, 307 metres to 460 metres
Hole 9 – Justin Rose, England -- Par 5, 446 metres to 548 metres
Hole 10 – Padraig Harrington, Ireland -- Par 4, 380 metres to 470 metres
Hole 11 – Raphael Jacquelin, France -- Par 5, 464 metres to 568 metres
Hole 12 – Ian Woosnam, Wales -- Par 3, 128 metres to 237 metres
Hole 13 – Luke Donald, England -- Par 4, 336 metres to 448 metres
Hole 14 – Robert Allenby, Australia -- Par 4, 323 metres to 493 metres
Hole 15 – Vijay Singh, Fiji -- Par 4, 317 metres to 432 metres
Hole 16 – Sergio Garcia, Spain -- Par 4, 336 metres to 436 metres
Hole 17 – KJ Choi, South Korea -- Par 3, 128 metres to 186 metres
Hole 18 – Retief Goosen, South Africa -- Par 5, 443 metres to 546 metres

THE EXTREME 19TH

The now world famous Extreme 19th is the world's longest and highest Par 3, providing every golfer with an unforgettable golfing experience. Accessible only by helicopter, the hole is situated on the top of Hanglip Mountain with a 361 metres shot to the green situated 400 breathtaking metres below the tee.

Once the exhilarating helicopter flight to the top of this mystical mountain is completed, the player is treated to the golfing view of all time – miles of African bushveld stretching as far as the eye can see, a vista of epic proportions, and nestling at the foot of the mountain is the green - contoured and shaped like the African continent. There is nothing like it anywhere else on planet golf!!

For more information:

The Legend Golf and Safari Resort



18 November 2016

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas: The Caribbean's Most Exclusive Resort Destination

from Hotelier Indonesia Magazine
November 2016, Issue 27
full issue at: http://www.youblisher.com/p/1595675-BHOTJASON/

Capturing the charisma, character and warmth of the Dominican culture, Casa de Campo encompasses 7,000 verdant acres, offering privacy for the affluent and the promise of pure personalization. For more than 40 years, this discreet enclave has been a favored escape for the world’s financial moguls, politicos and Hollywood’s elite.

Expertly enhancing the typical Caribbean beach vacation with endless avenues for play, Casa de Campo is the premiere luxury resort destination. Elite sport clubs dot the property including famous Pete Dye golf courses, 245-acre Shooting Center, Polo and Equestrian Center, La Terraza Tennis Center and more.

Guests, soon to become “familia,” explore the lush, tropical grounds on personal carritos (four-passenger touring carts provided with each hotel room and villa home). Situated on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, in the town of La Romana, Casa de Campo is edged by the Caribbean Sea on one side and the winding Chavon River below on the other. A cloistered world unto itself, the resort is an Eden resplendent with native sea grapes, Flamboyan trees blooming with fiery hued flowers and lush bougainvillea in shades of fuchsia, amethyst and white.

Golf to Dye Fore:
90 Holes of Awe-Inspiring Golf Designed by Pete Dye
Casa de Campo is the Caribbean’s premier golf destination with four courses designed by Pete Dye (including courses listed below and La Romana Country Club, a private 27-hole course open to members only). It is home to the Casa de Campo Golf Academy and Director of Golf Robert Birtel guarantees the highest level of service as he oversees all golf operations, activities, and services, with a priority on enhancing the golf experience for all members and guests.

Only at Casa de Campo can you play a different course each day at the same resort, with three completely different experiences.

  • Teeth of the Dog (18 holes/7,471 yards)
Ranked as the No. 1 course in Latin America and No. 39 Worldwide by Golf Magazine. The course captivates with devilish doglegs, signature Dye obstacles and trade winds courtesy of Mother Nature -- is the only course in the world with seven Caribbean-edged holes.

Originally named Cajules I, this seaside course was built entirely by hand. A Dominican crew of 300 used sledgehammers, pickaxes and chisels (often cut when working on the course) and referred to the area as Dientes del Perro, or “Teeth of the Dog” – and the name stuck.

  • Dye Fore (27 holes/7,740 yards)
Dye Fore is visually intimidating with seven cliff-side holes that drop a staggering 300 feet to the Chavon River below -- challenging players with up to 40 mph gusting winds. Par three holes, #12 and #15, are two of the greatest in the world and the entire course offers 360 degree views of the Caribbean Sea, Dominican mountains (the highest mountains in the Caribbean), Chavón River, Casa de Campo Marina and Altos de Chavón artists’ village. The course was renovated in August 2014 with Paspalum greens.

Dye Fore’s newest nine, Dye Fore Lagos, opened September 2011 on the northeast side of Dye Fore. Five holes linger next to three massive lakes including the two par three holes leaving only a sliver of saving greens running along the lake border. A flatter section of Dye Fore than the rest, this nine-hole addition adds a different and fun dynamic to the resort rotation.

  • The Links (18 holes/6,900 yards)
Dye’s encore, built five years after Teeth of the Dog, was an authentic links-style course hauntingly reminiscent of the British Isles. Recently renovated and planted with Paspalum greens, Dye originally referred to the 6,900-yard Links course as La Barranca or "the little hill." Situated inland, water comes into play on five holes, while grass roughs and multiple sand traps keep players on their toes.

Our magnificent golf courses have received a collection of awards, such as:

  • Golf Resort of the Year 2015 by IAGTO
  • Teeth of the Dog – Ranked #39 in the World by Golf Magazine – 2015
  • Teeth of the Dog- Ranked #56 in the world by Golf Digest -2016
  • Dominican Republic’s Best Golf Course – Teeth of the Dog -2015
  • Caribbean’s Best Golf Course – Teeth of the Dog -2015
  • Dominican Republic’s Best Golf Hotel – 2015

The ideal place for golf vacations, family getaways, groups and conferences and destination weddings, Casa de Campo is a full service resort that is more than just a mark on the map, it’s a state of mind and way of life.

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas
La Romana, Dominican Republic



13 November 2016

Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali Resort - Enjoy unrivalled Pacific hospitality

from Hotelier Indonesia Magazine
November 2016, Issue 27
full issue at: http://www.youblisher.com/p/1595675-BHOTJASON/

Experience a new level of personalised service in Bali’s award-winning resort, complete with every conceivable convenience and service for your utmost comfort.  Guests will relish every moment of their stay in the resort’s two hundred and seventy-eight premium luxury rooms, suites and villas.

Luxuriate in the tranquility of the Pan Pacific’s spacious 103-hectare resort in Tabanan, West Bali – away from the hustle and bustle of the island. Built atop a sheer cliff along a sweeping coastline, the five-star accommodation offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and Tanah Lot framed by a spectacular panorama of endless sea. The resort also features an award-winning lush 18-hole golf course designed by Greg Norman.

Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali Resort offers a choice of outstanding amenities combined with discreet and understated service. Embrace the tranquillity of the resort with a traditional spa treatment or admire the ocean views from the cascading swimming pools.

With a wide range of exquisite Bali villas, rooms and suites, leisurely pursuits and pampering services available right at your doorstep, fall in love with the irresistible charm of the ‘Island of the Gods’ at the Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali Resort.

Nirwana Bali Golf

Our award-winning golf course designed by world-renowned golfer Greg Norman is in a unique and enchanting location on the Island of the Gods with breath-taking Indian Ocean views on one side and traditionally farmed Balinese rice fields on the other. This is one of the most exhilarating golf courses in Asia set against the dramatic back-drop of the famous Tanah Lot Hindu temple; it’s a favourite of golfers the world over.

The Nirwana golf course is renowned for its challenging course and natural setting. The course combines a great test of golf with the natural flora and fauna of the island. The locally farmed tiered rice paddies still provide villagers with crops and economy and the Tanah Lot Hindu temple offers the cultural and spiritual experience for visitors.

The local villagers regularly worship at this Temple as well as the additional 19 ancient Hindu Temples in the grounds of the resort. The Tanah Lot temple set on a cliff top is one of the most visited temples in Bali. There is also an abundance of birdlife and animal life, home to an array of colorful native birds including Kokokan birds. A visual treat for all golfers.

Each of the course’s 18-hole presents a different challenge for the player. Hole 7, 13, and 14 are located on a cliff-to-cliff beside the Indian Ocean. These are extremely dramatic holes which require a combination of skills and concentration to play well. Hole 7, in particular, is one of the most dramatic holes anywhere in golf and will be photographed in many of the world’s golf magazines. Not only are these holes spectacular to look at, but they are exhilarating to play even if golfers lose a ball or two in an attempt to conquer them.

The site also has a number of attractive creeks which flow year round. In many places the borders of these creeks are formed from rock, which adds to their appeal. In designing the course, the use of creeks is strategically formed so that golfers have to gamble with their shots cross the creeks. The Indian Ocean beyond also makes the course unusual. There are not many places in the world where such dramatic cliff-top land is allocated for golf-holes.

Whether you are a beginner, a keen golfer or a seasoned player, this diverse and meticulously maintained course with lush fairways and immaculate greens, a full service pro-shop, practice chipping and putting areas and Golfer’s Terrace never ceases to provide surprises. The local fully trained and English speaking caddies complement the stunning location and with their wonderful Balinese friendliness and welcoming manner, they ensure each golfer completes their perfect round of golf.

Awards and Accolades

• Best Signature Golf Course by Hospitality Asia Platinum Awards 2012-2014
• Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor 2012, 2013
• Luxury Golf Resort by World Luxury Hotel Awards 2012, 2013
• Asia’s 10 Most Elite Golf Course by Forbes Travel Guide 2012
• Indonesia’s Leading Golf Resort by World Travel Awards 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013
• Indonesia’s Leading Spa Resort by World Travel Awards 2012
• No 1 Golf Course in Indonesia with Excellent Score by top100golfcourse.co.uk in 2012
• 100 Best Golf Courses outside the US (no 66) and No 1 Golf Course in Indonesia by Golf Digest Magazine, US in May 2012

Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali Resort
Jalan Raya Tanah Lot,
Tabanan 82171, Bali, Indonesia
Tel +62 361 815900 Fax +62 361 815907
reserve.ppdps@panpacific.com