G&L International Roadtrip to Monaco

from Gaming & Leisure Magazine

Fall 2014, Las Vegas

www.gamingandleisuremagazine.com

A Note From the Editor:  Bill has been G&L’s International Contributor since the beginning.  We sincerely appreciate his hard work and contributions.  Personally, I live vicariously through his travels.  When he submitted this article, he mentioned that his last six weeks had

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Fall 2014

been harrowing and busy.  I thought I’d share his story with everyone.  Recently, Bill was on a Malaysia Air flight from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing (the same flight that went missing earlier this year).  As he was approaching Beijing around midnight, his flight was put into a holding pattern for an hour.  Finally they were then told to turn around and fly two hours to Shanghai.  After three hours on the ground in Shanghai, they took off again for Beijing and again suffered an hour-long hold near Beijing.  Finally, they were told to return once again to Shanghai.  To summarize, on the MAS flight to Beijing, they landed twice in Shanghai and finally arrived in Beijing thirty-six hours later.  It turned out to be all weather-related but the experience had to be nightmarish to say the least.  I remember the days of travel.  It sounds exciting to most people – but when I hear stories like this, I’m glad the only traveling I do is to my cabin on the weekends.  So, Bill, Keep the articles coming, but most of all, stay safe!

G&L International Road Trip to Monaco

Found amongst the exclusive, secluded shores of the French Riviera is the Principality of Monaco, recognized by many as the international capital of fashion and luxury.  The upscale casino enclave of Monte Carlo is found within Monaco’s secluded bays and elegant boutiques along the Mediterranean shore.

Offering a low tax rate and a luxurious waterfront, it’s not surprising to find that this city-state has the highest percentage of millionaires of any city worldwide.  The Principality is marketed by businesses as a tax haven and an investment destination, luring wealthy foreigners to relocate.  According to a Wealthinsight report in June 2014, nearly one in three people in Monaco is a millionaire.

Operating since the mid-1800s, the Casino of Monte Carlo is one of the top draws in the Principality, offering both casino gaming and high-end entertainment.  The facility includes the famed casino, the Grand Théâtre de Monte Carlo, and the office of Les Ballets de Monte Carlo.  Although today gambling has been a minor contributor to the local economy, there was one point in time when it was the primary source of income for the House of Grimaldi and the Monaco economy. 

Though the present-day Casino of Monte Carlo is operated by the Société des bains de mer de Monaco (Monte-Carlo SBM), the ruling family still maintains a majority interest.  Through the 100+ years that Monte-Carlo SBM has been managing the gambling casino, the size of its employee roles has swelled to more than 3000, making it one of the top employers in Monaco.

Early desires to develop a casino in this seaside town began 160 years ago, with Princess Caroline, the shrewd, business-minded wife of Prince Florestan I.  She had proposed the venture as a means to save the House of Grimaldi from bankruptcy.  The intent had been to design the casino gaming industry to appeal to wealthy tourists who were seeking luxury and elegance away from home. 

In 1854 Florestan's son Charles began work on developing a prospectus to build a facility that would have a wellness spa, English-styled villas and a gambling casino modeled on Germany’s Bad Homburg casino.   

To reach the goal of attracting 4 million francs, Charles recruited a team from France —writer Albert Aubert and industrialist Napoleon Langlois.  Having been granted the concession to operate a bathing establishment and gaming tables for 30 years, Aubert and Langlois moved quickly and opened the first casino in 1856 in Villa Bellevu. 

Developing a spa & casino in 1850s Monaco had its share of logistical challenges, as roads between Monaco to Nice and the rest of Europe didn’t exist.  Furthermore, comfortable lodging wasn’t available, and the concessionaires’ failed to promote the new resort.  This resulted in fewer customers, and lower revenues than expected.  Unable to raise the capital needed to continue on, the property changed hands several times.

In 1859 the property began to make a profit, but still faced its share of difficulties as it didn’t meet the grandiose scale envisioned by Princess Caroline.  Frustrated by the apparent incompetence of the casino’s management, Carolie dispatched her secretary to Germany in an effort to recruit François Blanc, the successful French operator of the famed Bad Homburg casino.  Though he initially declined the offer, he finally did accept after a long period of persuasion.  It is said that Princess Caroline even called on Madame Blanc, suggesting that Monaco’s mild climate would be better for her ill health.

In 1863, François Blanc finally agreed to take the reigns of Monaco’s casino business.  With seed capital of 15 million francs, the “Societe des Bains de Mer et du Cercle des Etrangers” was created.  As part of his incentive to relocate to Monaco, Blanc became the single majority stockholder in the company and received a 50-year concession (lasting until 1913).

Well connected in the industry, Blanc called on his connections within the industry and quickly began a massive construction project.  He also insisted on renaming Monaco’s Spelugues area to Monte Carlo, chosen to honor Prince Charles.  It was felt the name would be more attractive to casino visitors.

Though early attempts to establish the company combining casino gaming and wellness in Monaco had failed, Blanc’s arrival had reversed the trend.  Despite the many difficulties he inherited, Blanc was able to create a viable and profitable endeavor based initially on operating a casino and in ensuring years, the opening of luxury hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues. 

With gaming prohibited throughout Europe at the time, the Casino of Monte Carlo quickly attracted a wealthy, cosmopolitan members of society, who were drawn by the Principality’s flamboyance, luxury, and the magic of chance gaming.

Since its opening in 1863, the Casino of Monte Carlo has continued to expand and upgrade, but still maintained its Napoleonic era, Belle Époque décor.  With the success and continued growth, the Casino sought fashionable architects such as Dutrou, Schmit, Garnier, Trouzet, etc. to contribute to the long-standing sophistication of the site.

To this day, the Casino of Monte Carlo maintains its image of fashion, flamboyance and luxury, drawing the wealthy and famous from around the world.

All photos are courtesy of the Monaco Press Centre Photos

Legendary Nightlife - Club 9 at The Grand Ho Tram Strip

from Vietnam Golf Magazine

July 2014, 100^th issue

www.vietnamgolfmagazine.net

Club 9 at The Grand – Ho Tram Strip brings world-class entertainment to Vietnam. Opened from 20.00 until 3.00, Club 9 offers a range of entertainment sure to make the night legendary. Starting at 21.30, sexy showgirls kick off the night followed by hot pole dancers at

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July 2014

22.00. The live performance from Marlie and the Misfits Band rock the house from 21.00 until 1.00, after which guests can continue to dance the night away to pulsating beats provided Club 9’s resident DJ.

In true Las Vegas form, Club 9 also features nine tantalizing signature drinks crafted by skilled mixologists. Those wanting to add a little heat to their night can order a My Lambor On Fire, an enticing drink that combines Sambuca, Vodka, Kahlua and Bailey's. The mixologists are also experts at crafting drinks based on a guest’s preference. Sweet? Sour? Boozy? Fruity? Just tell them and your perfect custom cocktail will be presented to you. The bill is only settled when guests are happy with their libations.

Club 9

Ho Tram Strip

Phuoc Thuan, Xuyen Moc 70001

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/Club9atTheGrandHoTramStrip

Friday Foursome with Bill Healey Quasar Group International

Ho Tram Strip -- Vietnam’s Newest Seaside Gaming Gem

from Gaming & Leisure Magazine

Summer 2014

www.gamingandleisuremagazine.com

Interview with Colin Pine

Ho Tram Strip’s first luxury integrated resort is drenched in tropical sunshine and bordered by Vietnam’s  untouched beaches fringing the East Sea. Combining elegant and gracious service with entertainment that pushes the limits, The Grand Ho Tram Strip is a perfect mix of exciting day life and exhilarating nightlife.

G&L is fortunate for the opportunity to chat with Mr. Colin Pine, General Director of Ho

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Summer 2014

Tram Project Company.  He provides further insight into the present status and future of Ho Tram Strip.

[G&L] The Ho Tram Strip is positioned as an all-round tourist destination, helping usher in a new era for Asia’s leisure and entertainment industry.  What are some of the iconic features within the property helping advance this transformation?

[CP] The realization of the vision for our overall project starts with the natural setting in which we are building.  The area of Ba Ria-Vung Tau where The Ho Tram Strip is located has a beautiful 2.2 kilometer stretch of beach on one side and a protected forest on the other, with our world class links golf course built on the natural sand dunes in between.

The first phase of our development is of a scale and scope never seen before in Vietnam and the first resort has drawn fabulous reviews for the truly luxurious finishing touches that are used through the property.  The Ho Tram Strip is the first truly integrated resort project in Vietnam and is currently planned to ultimately include casinos with total of 180 live table games and 2,000 electronic gaming machines.  Beyond gaming we are focusing on world class entertainment and leisure features.  This is evidenced by The Bluffs, our signature 18-hole links course.  Mr. Greg Norman, the designer of the course has called it one of the top two sites he has ever been involved with, and we are confident that it will not only be the best golf course in Vietnam, but one of the best in all of Asia.

Colin Pine

We plan to continue to roll out first of its kind/best in class features to build on the base of luxury sport, spa, F&B and MICE product that already exists with the first phase of our project.

[G&L]  What are the target markets of The Grand - Ho Tram Strip?

[CP]  On the gaming side our focus is mainly pan-Asia.  Key target customers include mainland Chinese, Thais, Malaysians and Singaporeans, Japanese and Koreans.  We also place a strong emphasis on marketing to Viet Kieu (foreigners of Vietnamese origin) from all over the world, as well as the local resident expatriate community.

Our non-gaming targets includes local Vietnamese, typically seeking a truly unique F&B, leisure and golf experience with MICE travel as a key driver of through-the-week trade.

[G&L]  What type of restrictions are there on Vietnamese nationals? Will they be allowed into the casino facilities?

[CP]  Under Vietnamese law, only persons with proof of foreign residency may enter the casinos.

[G&L]  There are concerns that the HTS is too far from Ho Chi Minh, and that it will be difficult to get visitors to the site.  How are you addressing this?

[CP]  This is a misconception that we are always happy to clear up.  With the new

expressway for Ho Chi Minh-Long Thanh–Dau Giay which was inaugurated earlier this year, coupled with the widening and improvements to Highway 51, the journey to our site is now comfortably under two hours from downtown Ho Chi Minh City.

Certain customers may also come down to the Strip by helicopter. They will be helicoptered directly from Ho Chi Minh City airport to our landing pad directly at the resort.

The Long Thanh Airport will also shorten the journey when it comes on line.  It is expected to service all international visitation for south Vietnam and have a traveling time to our site of less than 1 hour.

[G&L]  The properties within the HTS are of high standard and have received many accolades.  What special honors have these properties received?

[CP]  Watch this space!  We are still a new property, technically still in our soft-opening period for the resort, and with a golf course that has just entered "preview play" operation.  We will look to enter relevant awards for both the resort and the course in the near future.

[G&L]  What future developments can we expect from the HTS in Vietnam and internationally?

[CP]  The first phase of the first integrated resort The Grand - Ho Tram Strip opened in July of last year, bringing 541 rooms, extensive F&B and other leisure amenities, as well as its casino. The second phase of The Grand is underway, which will add another 559 rooms and further leisure/F&B/shopping facilities. Ho Tram Strip will include at least one more integrated resort with a number of other resort properties and world class amenities.

[G&L]  How does social media play into your overall marketing mix?

[CP]  The Grand has a dedicated social media team in-house, as well as a consultancy retained to work on its social media presence.  We regard is an integral part of our marketing mix.

[G&L]  How is HTP involved with Corporate Social Responsibility?

[CP]  HTP has a long history as an active corporate citizen, having supported orphanages and various initiatives around Vietnam since our inception.  Our team also gets involved, with one of the most recent examples being The Grand's President, Mike Santangelo, who recently participate in a long distance cycling to raise funds for a local charity in Ho Tram.  Our next initiative will be focused around the importance of water-ways in Vietnam, so stay tuned for more information on that!

G&L would like to thank Colin Pine for his insight into Ho Tram Strip, the newest gaming gem on Vietnam’s unspoiled seaside.

Lifestyle Nightclub - Marini's on 57, Kuala Lumpur

from Vietnam Golf Magazine

June 2014

www.vietnamgolfmagazine.net

Marini’s on 57

Malaysia’s Highest Rooftop Bar, Restaurant & Lounge

Malaysia’s most iconic roof-top destination, Marini’s on 57, located on Level 57 of Menara 3 Petronas in Kuala Lumpur City Centre, is a dazzling jewel in the city’s skyline.  Marini’s boasts

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June 2014

unparalleled 360 degree views with acclaimed architecture showcasing floor to ceiling glass.

Housing Malaysia’s best rooftop bar, a warm and contemporary Italian Restaurant and an exceptional lounge that serves a wide range of whiskies and cigars, Marini’s on 57 pulsates even when the rest of the city sleeps.

Guest can enjoy a signature cocktail on Marini’s open rooftop terrace, while taking in the stunning view.  This is the place to unwind after a long day in the office, to close a business deal or to host an event. 

The official opening of Marini’s on 57 in September 2012 marked the pinnacle of an exceptional culinary enterprise in Malaysia for Italian Chef Modesto Marini.  Modesto, who arrived in Malaysia in 1995, brought to fame Italian cuisine with the opening of Modesto’s, a restaurant which became a Malaysian Institution.

Having sold his interest in Modesto’s group of restaurants, Modesto’s next phase was to put Malaysia’s dining and bar scene on the map, by creating a stunning rooftop venue, offering the finest of everything.

Fast forward 18 months and experience how Marini’s has established itself as Malaysia’s premier dining hotspot.  With a list of Malaysia’s most powerful business people often frequenting the venue, plus a who’s who of international sports people and celebrities dropping in, Marini’s is certainly the place to be seen.

The mark of entertainment and more -- Marini’s on 57 -- where you elevate to a whole new high.

Marini’s on 57

Level 57, Menara 3 Petronas

Persiaran KLCC

Kuala Lumpur City Centre

Tel.  +60 3 2161 2880

web  www.marinis57.com

Lifestyle Nightclub :: Mint House, Wenzhou China

from Vietnam Golf Magazine

May 2014

www.vietnamgolfmagazine.net

Vietnam Golf Magazine
May 2014

Sophisticated Nightclub in Historic Wenzhou

Found in the historic seaside town of Wenzhou, Mint House has emerged as one of China’s more intimate and sophisticated members-only nightclubs.  Located in the heart of the city, the club’s dimly lit interior provides a low-key environment for friends and business associates to relax and unwind with a variety of lounge and funky house beats. 

With its contemporary design, upscale dark wood and swanky sofas, Mint House is regularly frequented by twenty-somethings as the place to be seen.  Typically dressed to impress, guests come to this trendy club for its impressive signature drink menu and snacks, quickly served by very friendly staff.

 

Spending a couple nights at Mint House with Paul, the club’s owner, it was clear to see that the club was giving Wenzhou a higher stature in the international clubbing scene.  His interest in cocktails was helping develop the town’s cocktail culture.   Paul’s attention to detail was followed closely by staff, as all guests were treated as VIPs.

Mint House is elegant, stylish and very well designed.  Its unique ambiance makes guests feel highly comfortable. The vibe is best late in the evening -- after eleven which is when it gets busier.  Tables can be reserved for large parties.

Mint House

Sixth Floor

608 European City Center Building

Wenzhou, China

Skyline Charm - Octave Rooftop Lounge, Bangkok Marriott

from Vietnam Golf Magazine

April 2014

www.vietnamgolfmagazine.net

OCTAVE BRINGS TO LIFE THE SOUND, THE CITY, THE SKY 

The exclusive party at the highest lounge and bar on Thonglor with a stunning 360 degrees panoramic view 

There are many trendy places to drink the night away in Bangkok, but a sophisticated newcomer to the has quickly become the city’s most fashionable venue. With a breathtaking

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April 2014

view on the 45th floor of the Bangkok Marriott Hotel Sukhumvit, Octave has become the gathering place for the city’s chic & trendy lounge crowd. Offering a diverse mix of dining locations, the rooftop venue offers a modern twist with the food and drinks offered, creating a unique and exceptional experience for all.

Octave has become more than a place for watching the sunset, stargazing or having a romantic meal.  Unmatched as Bangkok’s only rooftop venue with a breathtaking 360 degree city-view, this three level venue has become the highest and trendiest spot in the city to party.

The venue brings to life the sounds, the city, the sky... this multi-zone outlet features a restaurant, a private dining room, a bar and a rooftop lounge, the last being the signature space. More expansive than the average sky bar, Octave’s contemporary design is inspired by New York apartment terraces. 

In a city with a with a unique feel of it’s own, Octave enhances the vibe with resident DJs on weekdays and special acts on weekends. Music is an essential factor of the lounge experience here.  Showcasing new-age fusion food like Asian-style tapas platters and a seafood bar along with the finest  in wines and cocktails, Octave is effortlessly the hippest destination in town! 

While the ambiance of Octave is sophisticated, the friendly staff create a refreshingly unpretentious and welcoming atmosphere for a fashionable evening out.

Octave Rooftop Lounge

Marriott Sukhumvit

Sukhumvit 57

Klongtan Nua, Wattana

Bangkok, Thailand 10110

web:  www.bangkokmarriott.com