A good article I came across this morning about why third-party booking sites are losing some of their luster for regular travellers.I particularly like this quote from Starwood:
A senior representative of Starwood highlighted that Starpoints can be earned on "'eligible' rate plans" for bookings made "directly with the hotels or your preferred travel agency".

We come under their classification of "preferred travel agency" and look after bookings for several of their Platinum SPG members.

Want points for your hotel stay? Avoid third-party booking websites

By Chris Chamberlin
Want to earn your full serve of points with your favourite hotel rewards scheme? Avoid 'third party' booking sites and make your reservation directly with the hotel or its parent company.

Unlike frequent flyer programs – which let you earn points regardless of who you booked your ticket with – many hotel loyalty programs won't provide any per-night points or per-stay credits on bookings made through the likes of Expedia, Wotif and Hotels.com.

To read the rest of the article, click here. 

Drinks at Oaks Lexicon

I got an invite to have drinks & canapes at Oaks Lexicon last night to check out their refurbished apartments. I stayed at the property a few years ago shortly after it opened and wasn't sure it really needed a refurb yet.

When we arrived I ran in to an old friend who now works at the Convention Centre so I caught up with her on the way in. I needn't have worried that I might not know anyone because some regular function attendees were of course there ... Jason (also from the Convention Centre) and of course Saskia from Wotif.

Its the first function I've attended recently but I'm glad I did. A glass or two of bubbles, some excellent canapes and catching up with some industry colleagues. It wasn't all just socialising tho as I did of course have a good look around the apartment. They've done a good job with the refurb and the apartments look great, plus being an Oaks they're also great value. This property has good sized balconies and some excellent views/aspects of the city, despite being right in the middle of town.

Here's the press release about the refurbishment:

Celebrate a brand new look at the Oaks Lexicon!

Spring into the Oaks Lexicon for a fresh new look this season, offering the perfect affordable accommodation close to the CBD, central station, and Fortitude Valley.

Spacious, sophisticated and self contained, Oaks Lexicon is one of the cities most contemporary and stylish buildings. A recent make-over has refined interiors, added a new edge to the modern décor and ignited a sleek ambience that will delight those looking for a classy place to stay at a great price.

The cities most popular restaurants and bars are just a short stroll from Oaks Lexicon, or choose the added convenience of self-catered dining with gleaming gourmet kitchens fitted with quality stainless steel appliances. Generous sized apartments are perfect for an intimate dinner party but cosy enough for a romantic rendezvous too!

Balconies boasting city views, a heated swimming pool and BBQ podium area with a Tuscany feel, gymnasium and undercover parking on site ensure Oaks Lexicon is the savvy choice for discerning travellers who will love the quality, and also delight in Oaks Lexicon’s supreme value.