Half-Ton Fun

Read article : Half-Ton Fun

Laredo Super Lite 289SRE" />

High fuel prices and the skyscraping cost of ³/₄– and 1-ton pickups have created a growing demand for lightweight, easier-to-tow RVs. But not everyone wants a little trailer, which has led many RV builders to focus on smaller and lightweight fifth-wheels now more than ever. And the consumer stands to benefit from that trend. However, while many half-ton towable fifth-wheels might be smaller, that doesn’t mean they aren’t spacious and filled with great features; many offer niceties such as solid-surface countertops, leveling jacks and electric awnings. And almost every brand has a fifth-wheel designed for half-ton pickups that offers a slideout to expand the living space. Some even have two or three.

Keystone’s Laredo Super Lite fifth-wheel line is a perfect example. The series tops out at 31 feet in length with a dry weight of 7,735 pounds, yet is available in two double-slide floorplans. ‘‘These fifth-wheels are extremely well-equipped, attractive, offer great value and, of course, are towable by properly equipped half-ton trucks,’’ explains Jim Mac, Keystone’s communications manager.

Having made a name for itself in the travel trailer and truck camper markets, Livin’ Lite Recreational Vehicles entered the fifth-wheel segment for the 2013 model year with the Mercury, an aluminum-and-composite fiver that will initially feature two 24-foot floorplans with dry weights of less than 4,500 pounds. ‘‘We expect the Mercury to prove to be something that changes the market a little bit in the true ultralight fifth-wheel category,’’ says Livin’ Lite President Scott Tuttle.

Mark Lucas, president of Forest River’s Shasta division, says the company’s new 100-inch wide-body Phoenix fifth-wheel in lengths of 27 to 34 feet is intended to deliver more livability in a smaller RV. ‘‘It’s more cost-effective for the consumer, easier to tow and easier to park and they give up nothing,’’ Lucas said.

More and more builders are coming to market with a half-ton towable fifth-wheel that offers many of the conveniences, features and luxuries of the larger, heavier fivers. Here’s a guide
to get you started.

Axiom 

The compact Axiom lightweight fifth-wheel built by Forks RV is aimed primarily at the Australian market, but is available through select dealers in the United States. The 7¹/₂-foot-wide mid-profile Axiom is offered in four 23- to 27-foot floorplans, each with a single sofa/dinette slideout. With a dry weight of 6,500 pounds, the aluminum-and-laminated fiberglass Axiom features an aerodynamic front cap, composite cabinets, LED lighting inside and out, thermopane windows and linoleum floors in the living area with carpeting in the upper deck — which is equipped with a queen bed. Base MSRP starts at $42,000.

Forks RV, 574-825-7467, www.forksrv.com

CrossRoads 

CrossRoads RV has added a double-slideout 30-foot lightweight fifth-wheel to its 2013 Cruiser Aire lineup. The Cruiser Aire fiver, from this subsidiary of Thor Industries, has a walk-through queen-size bedroom with a 6-foot 6-inch ceiling. Five other fifth-wheel floorplans in lengths of 25 to 30 feet will also be available. The Cruiser Aire fiberglass-and-aluminum debut floorplan, with a 7,000-pound dry weight, is equipped with electric jacks, a 15,000-Btu air conditioner, 8-cubic-foot refrigerator, maple cabinets, 54-by-27-inch shower with a glass door and a midway island kitchen with a large amount of Formica countertop space. Base MSRP: $29,995.

CrossRoads RV, 855-226-7496, www.crossroadsrv.com

Escape 5.0

Made entirely of hand-laid fiberglass in a two-piece mold, the lightweight, aerodynamic Escape 5.0 from Escape Trailer weighs approximately 2,650 pounds (dry) and offers a low center of gravity for increased road stability and a 3,500-pound-capacity independent suspension axle for reduced vibration and better handling while towing. Standards such as 15-inch tires (including the spare), LED marker lights, a 10-foot Fiesta awning and dual 5-gallon LP-gas cylinders dress up the exterior of this 19-foot 6-inch fifth-wheel. Its compact kitchen still boasts a 4.3-cubic-foot three-way Dometic refrigerator, two-burner cooktop with power range hood, optional microwave and a countertop and sink roomy enough to get the job done. The fifth-wheel has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 4,400 pounds, making it easily towed by half-ton pickups such as a GMC Sierra or Toyota Tundra, and even by some compact pickups with appropriate trailer weight ratings and proper equipment. Base MSRP: $27,000.

Escape Trailer Industries, 855-703-1650, www.escapetrailer.com

Heartland RV

Two new rear-living-room floorplans have been added to Heartland Recreational Vehicles’ Elkridge Express fifth-wheel series for 2013. The 30-foot E27 and 31-foot E28 floorplans each have a single slideout and are among seven that the manufacturer is building for the new model year. With dry weights ranging from 7,205 to 9,250 pounds, the Elkridge Express is constructed with laminated fiberglass side walls on an aluminum frame and has an 88-degree turning angle. Features include heated storage with slam-lock doors, kingpin box covers, outside showers, Beauflor floors, solid-surface countertops, cherry cabinets with hidden hinges, 60-by-74-inch queen beds, full wardrobes, sofa air beds, porcelain toilets, dinette chairs with hidden storage and multiview TV centers. Base MSRP starts at about $24,000.

Heartland RV, 877-262-8032, www.heartlandrvs.com

Jayco

Dry weights range from 5,975 to 7,135 pounds in the Jayco Eagle HT line, with four available floorplans for 2013. Offered in 26- to 32-foot layouts, three have wardrobe slideouts to complement the living-room slide. The unusual Eagle HT 23.5RBS has a large rear bath with tub and shower to allow for more bedroom space in the upper deck. A standard Glacier Package includes an R-29 insulation value in the main floor and R-27 in the roof in addition to triple insulation in the heated-and-enclosed underbelly. Countertops are solid-
surface and cabinets have solid hardwood doors with screwed stiles. Base MSRPs begin at $30,586.

Jayco Inc., 574-825-5861, www.jayco.com 

Laredo Super Lite 289SRE" width="300" height="205" />Keystone 

With a dry weight of 7,735 pounds, the Laredo Super Lite 289SRE is equipped with a living-area slideout containing a sofa bed and booth dinette. A ‘‘Best in Class Package’’ included in all Laredo layouts includes an adjustable electric awning, LCD TV, electric rear stabilizer jacks, all-weather Glacier Package and crown molding. Standard features include a fully enclosed heated underbelly, pass-through lighted storage, residential-size cabinets, single-basin sink, two-door refrigerator, extra-wide dinette with storage below, raised-panel mortise-and-tenon cabinet doors, queen bed, wardrobe storage and entertainment center. Keystone also offers a new 31-foot 280SBH fifth-wheel floorplan with rear bunk beds for the kids in its popular Laredo Super Lite series. Base MSRPs typically equipped begin at $54,940.

Keystone RV, 866-425-4369, www.keystonerv.com

KZRV 

A tri-level rear-kitchen floorplan has been added for 2013 to the newly redesigned Durango from KZRV. The unique 37-foot double-slideout floorplan, built on a bi-level drop-frame, features a new front cap designed to allow a greater turning radius, and has a side-aisle (streetside) front bath with a porcelain toilet, large neo-angle shower and linen closet. The 331RK queen-bed floorplan — one of 12 offered in the Durango series — has a dry weight of 9,740 pounds and is equipped with 110 cubic feet of storage under the kitchen, an 8-cubic-foot refrigerator with wood insert panel, solid-surface countertops, kitchen table with four chairs, Beauflor linoleum, slam-latch baggage doors, an L-shaped sofa bed and a 32-inch LCD TV. MSRP: $49,999.

KZRV LP, 260-768-4016, www.kz-rv.com

Livin’ Lite  

Livin’ Lite Recreational Vehicles, known for its lightweight all-aluminum folding camping trailers and truck campers, has introduced the Mercury fifth-wheel. Livin’ Lite’s Mercury will have two 24-foot aluminum-and-composite floorplans, each equipped with a single slideout. Both are designed for half-ton pickups with GVWRs in the 3,500- to 4,500-pound range. One floorplan features double bunks in the upper bedroom,  while the second will be equipped with a queen bed. Both will have dry baths with LP-gas stoves, refrigerators and water heaters. The interior is available in a wood-look Azdell composite or champagne aluminum. Base MSRP: $26,000.

Livin’ Lite, 574-862-2228, www.livinlite.com

Northwood

Northwood Manufacturing has given its Fox Mountain lightweight fifth-wheel a facelift for 2013. The redesigned Fox Mountain now has tan side walls, an aerodynamic mocha front cap and a more contemporary interior with stainless-steel appliances. Built on a cambered chassis, the fiberglass-and-aluminum Fox Mountain is available in six 26- to 32-foot floorplans with up to three slideouts. With a dry weight of 7,500 pounds in the 28-foot double-slide model, a standard Four Seasons package includes heated-and-enclosed underbellies, R-7 insulation in the side walls and floor, and R-18 in the roof. Features include solid-surface countertops, Beauflor floors, centrally located control panels, exterior showers and electric awnings. A combination sofa/dinette with leatherlike fabric is optional. Base MSRPs begin at $32,500.

Northwood Manufacturing Inc., 800-766-6274, www.northwoodmfg.com

Shasta 

Forest River’s Shasta Recreation Vehicle division has introduced the mid-profile Shasta Phoenix wide-body fifth-wheel with a distinctive exterior and a kingpin that can be adjusted to accommodate 5¹/₂-foot-pickup beds. Available in eight floorplans with up to four slideouts, the Phoenix is 100 inches wide and available in eight 27- to 34-foot floorplans, all with 6 feet 4 inches of headroom in the upper deck bedroom. The gray hung fiberglass side wall on a six-side aluminum superstructure is connected to the root-beer-colored front cap. Bamboo rattan accents in the cabinets and on the slide fascia, along with Beauflor wood-plank floors, give the Phoenix a lighter interior. Dry weights begin at 7,400 pounds. Base MSRPs start at $30,000.

Shasta RV, 574-825-7178, www.shastarving.com

Starcraft RV

Starcraft RV is building its 2013 Starcraft Travel Star FW fifth-wheel series on its own StarMaxx drop-frame chassis to increase the storage capacity to 75 cubic feet. Floorplans offering two or three slideouts and dry weights from 7,415 to 7,915 pounds are available. A standard Arctic Package includes heated and enclosed underbellies with foil insulation in the roof and slideout rooms. Amenities include bourbon-glazed beechwood solid-wood raised-panel doors and drawers throughout, porcelain toilet, radius shower, oversized sinks, Formica countertops, storage drawers beneath the booth dinette and large windows over the dinette. An optional Galaxy Package includes a colored fiberglass front cap; power stabilizer jacks; remote control for patio awnings; slideout, porch and security lights; front and rear jacks; solid-surface countertops; and a 32-inch LED TV with DVD player. Base MSRP starts at $29,986.

Starcraft RV, 800-945-4787, www.starcraftcamping.com

Winnebago 

For those in the market for a midprofile fifth-wheel, Winnebago Towables has introduced the Winnebago Lite Five with four 28- to 34-foot floorplans, three of which are equipped with a single slideout and an optional wardrobe slide in the bedroom. With a cambered front cap, the fiberglass-and-aluminum Winnebago Lite Five, with dry weights from 6,907 to 8,953 pounds, can be towed by shortbed pickups. Features include high-gloss automotivelike gel coat exterior, fully enclosed-and-heated underbellies, 35,000-Btu furnace, high R-value insulation, patio awnings and stabilizer jacks. Amenities include a sectional sofa, island queen bed, a large bathroom with neo-angle shower, double-door refrigerators, a large amount of counter space and Bluetooth-enabled entertainment centers. Base MSRPs start at $28,993.

Winnebago Industries, Inc.,  574-825-5250, www.winnebagoind.com

Yellowstone

The Yellowstone division of Gulf Stream Coach has added a 29-foot rear-living room floorplan to its Canyon Trail XLT fifth-wheel series. The low-profile Canyon Trail XLT 25FLRW floorplan, with a dry weight of 7,297 pounds, has a single 38-inch-deep, 6-foot-2-inch tall slideout that contains a convertible sofa/dinette. Offering a large hallway closet with mirrored doors, the 25FLRW has a separate shower and bathroom, hardwood cabinet doors and drawers, laminated countertops with a solid-surface option and a queen bed with a flip-down fabric headboard with hidden storage. To accommodate shortbed pickups, the aluminum-framed vacuum-bonded side wall Canyon Trail XLT has an extended kingpin box. MSRP: $29,253.

Yellowstone RV, 800-811-0302, www.yellowstonervs.com 

6 Kid-friendly Craft Ideas To Fill Rainy Vacation Days

Read article : 6 Kid-friendly Craft Ideas To Fill Rainy Vacation Days

By: Embassy Suites by Hilton |  0 Shares     18 Reads

August 22, 2017 // Franchising.com // MCLEAN, Va. - You've picked the perfect location, booked your hotel suite, lined up attraction tickets and done everything you could to make sure your last vacation before the official end-of-summer will be a success for kids and parents alike. However, what will you do if the weather doesn't cooperate?

One of the top travel mistakes is relying on the weather forecast to dictate your plans, which is why it is essential to have a back-up plan. Unfortunately, rain is a distinct possibility in many destinations during late summer. A little creativity and planning can help parents keep kids entertained on rainy vacation days.

Simply pack a few simple craft supplies, and try these six ideas inspired by DIY mommy experts and the All Suites brands by Hilton (Embassy Suites, Homewood Suites and Home 2 Suites) for fun, kid-friendly crafts you can easily do in your hotel suite:

1. Fun with felt finger puppets
   Add several small squares of felt in multiple bright colors, glue, scissors and a variety of trimmings like sequins to your vacation packing. When it rains, break out your craft supplies and make felt finger puppets, just like Joy Cho from Oh Joy! All-suite hotels like Embassy Suites, Homewood Suites and Home 2 Suites, all by Hilton, provide plenty of work space for simple crafts. Once the project is complete, kids and parents can stage their own puppet show. The All Suites brands by Hilton not only provide plenty of room for these projects, but plenty of different "sets" to perform the show.
2. Suite, suite spa day
   When rain postpones outdoor activities, get creative like Oh Happy Day! and try some indoor enjoyment instead. Packing bathrobes, nail polish, bath bombs, scented lotions and plush flip-flops sets the stage for an in-suite spa day. Fill up the tub, add a bath bomb, soak kids' feet, and pamper them with kid-friendly manicures and pedicures.
3. Funneling some fun
   If your hotel suite comes with a fully equipped kitchen, like at Homewood Suites, take advantage to recreate a vacation food favorite as shown in another example by Oh Joy! Use the complimentary grocery shopping service available at select properties to order simple ingredients like flour, sugar and cooking oil that you'll need to whip up a batch of easy, yummy funnel cakes.
4. Sweet and sticky
   Need a spur-of-the-moment idea with supplies that are easy to find? Drop by any grocery or convenience store, grab a bag of marshmallows and a box of toothpicks. Let kids use these simple ingredients to build whatever sparks their imagination by poking the ends of the toothpicks into the marshmallows. It's a yummy, convenient alternative to carrying traditional building toys in your luggage!
5. Unbottling their energy
   Turn an empty water bottle into a treasured souvenir. Simply use a kitchen funnel to pour dry rice or sand into a plastic water bottle, and add tiny memorabilia, such as shells collected from the beach, and other vacation-related bits. Kids will have fun turning the bottle to discover what's inside - just make sure that lid is on tight!
6. Roadmap to fun
   Hotels often have colorful and helpful vacation maps of the destination. Another example by Oh Happy Day can spark inspiration to make your own map. Unfold a destination map, gather accumulated ticket stubs, brochures, admission stickers and wristbands - and tape them to their corresponding points on the map. Glue sequins or attach stickers to the remaining spots to visit when the rain stops.

Rain doesn't have to ruin your last vacation of the summer. When you stay at any All Suites brands by Hilton, you'll have all the room you need to fill rainy days with fun crafts. Visit www.hiltonbringit.com to learn more and book your suite.

About Embassy Suites Hotels

Embassy Suites by Hilton, one of Hilton's 14 market-leading brands, is dedicated to delivering what matters most to travelers. The full service, upscale brand offers two-room suites, free made-to-order breakfast and a nightly two-hour reception with complimentary drinks and snacks. Both leisure and business travelers looking for a relaxed, yet sophisticated experience will feel right at home with brand-standard amenities like inviting atriums and complimentary 24-hour business and fitness centers. Embassy Suites by Hilton has 235 hotels with 50 in the pipeline. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can't be found anywhere else, free standard Wi-Fi and digital amenities like digital check-in with room selection and Digital Key (select locations) available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app.. For more information, visit embassysuites.com or news.embassysuites.com. Connect online with Embassy Suites by Hilton at Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Homewood Suites by Hilton

Homewood Suites by Hilton, Hilton's upscale, all-suite, extended-stay hotel brand with more than 430 locations in the United States, Mexico and Canada, is an award-winning leader. The first choice for guests seeking comfortable accommodations when traveling for an extended or quick overnight stay, Homewood Suites offers inviting, generous suites, featuring separate living and sleeping areas, and fully-equipped kitchens with full-size refrigerators. Additional value-driven essentials include: complimentary Internet, a daily full-hot breakfast and complimentary evening social every Monday-Thursday. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can't be found anywhere else, free standard Wi-Fi and digital amenities like digital check-in with room selection and Digital Key (select locations) available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Homewood Suites is focused on guest satisfaction and stands behind each stay with its 100% Suite Assurance® guarantee.For more information on the extended-stay advantage, visit www.homewoodsuites.com or news.homewoodsuites.com.

About Home2 Suites by Hilton

Home2 Suites by Hilton, one of the fastest-growing brands in the history of Hilton, is a mid-tier, all-suite award-winning extended-stay hotel concept designed to offer stylish accommodations with flexible guest room configurations and inspired amenities for the cost-conscious guest. With a commitment to environmentally friendly products and hotel operations, Home2 Suites offers complimentary breakfast selections with hundreds of combinations; innovative and customizable guest room design; laundry and fitness area; complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access; multiple outdoor spaces; 24-hour business center; expansive community spaces; and a pet-friendly environment. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can't be found anywhere else, free standard Wi-Fi and digital amenities like digital check-in with room selection and Digital Key (select locations), available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app.Visit http://www.home2suites.com for additional information or www.home2franchise.com for franchising opportunities.

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company, with a portfolio of 14 world-class brands comprising more than 5,000 properties with more than 825,000 rooms in 103 countries and territories. Hilton is dedicated to fulfilling its mission to be the world's most hospitable company by delivering exceptional experiences - every hotel, every guest, every time. The company's portfolio includes Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Canopy by Hilton, Curio Collection by HiltonTM, DoubleTree by Hilton, Tapestry Collection by HiltonTM, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton by Hilton, Tru by Hilton, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages an award-winning customer loyalty program, Hilton Honors. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose exactly how many Points to combine with money, an exclusive member discount that can't be found anywhere else and free standard Wi-Fi.Visit newsroom.hilton.com for more information and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

SOURCE Hilton

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What's New in Truck Campers

Read article : What's New in Truck Campers

It’s also an economical approach, with campers starting at under $15,000 and extending upward to $40,000 or more. At the low end, you’ll find basic sleeping accommodations. Spend more and you can get many of the luxury features that would be found in a small motorhome, with good kitchens, full bathrooms, queen-size beds and entertainment centers.

The size of the camper is necessarily limited by the size of the pickup hauling it, but there are lots of options to choose from. And with new materials enabling manufacturers to reduce the weight of their campers, it’s possible to pack more amenities inside a camper without overloading the truck.

Here is a sampling of new campers offered by leading manufacturers:

Adventurer
The Adventurer 93FDS, a 2007 floor plan available in June, will add to a wide array of camper models designed to fit everything from small imports to big one-ton trucks.

The new 93FDS has a full-wall slideout that extends the dinette and refrigerator area. The dinette converts into a bed, enabling the camper to sleep four. The bathroom is given extra spaciousness with a huge skylight.

The suggested base retail price of about $24,000 includes numerous standard features, such as solar reflective windows, a Dometic two-door refrigerator-freezer, a fiberglass shower inside, an outside shower, a slide awning, an exterior yard light, and Happijac electric remote jacks to simplify loading and unloading. The holding tanks are heated and enclosed.

Adventurer campers are lighter in weight than many competitors because of their design and construction, including an aluminum frame and fully laminated walls. The Model 93FDS has a box length of 9 feet, two inches, and an estimated dry weight of 2,850 pounds.

For information, contact Adventurer Manufacturing Ltd, 33541 Maclure Road, Abbotsford, British Columbia V2S 7W1. Phone (604) 852-5731 or visit www.amlrv.com

Alpenlite
Alpenlite made its reputation in the truck camper field by pioneering aluminum frame construction and vacuum bonded walls. That emphasis on technology continues today with features such as block foam insulation, a laminated, vacuum-bonded crowned roof and a gelcoated exterior surface.

Now in its 34th year of building truck campers, Alpenlite offers eight floor plans in a range of sizes. One of its best sellers is the top-of-the-line Santa Fe 1150, which is Alpenlite’s biggest and roomiest model.

The Santa Fe 1150 includes a full queen-size bed, a center dry bath with a tub and shower seat area, Karadon solid surface countertops, and a basement storage area. The fresh water and other fluid tanks are all large-capacity, enclosed, and insulated so that the camper can be used in all seasons. Among the options is a dinette skylight with a retractable shade.

The dinette area slides out for extra room and can be converted to a bed for an additional sleeping area. The suggested retail price on the Santa Fe 1150 is $26,592. If you don’t want a slideout, you can choose the Santa Fe 1100, which offers much the same floor plan as the 1150, and also offers the option of a dinette with a fold-away table and two Flexsteel swivel chairs.

For information on Alpenlite Limited truck campers, contact Western Recreational Vehicles, P. O. Box 9547 Yakima, WA 98909. Phone (800) 777-4133 or visit www.wrv.com.

Arctic Fox
Arctic Fox truck campers, such as the new model 990 Silver Fox edition, are durable and rugged enough to endure cross-country and off-road travel because of innovations in camper engineering.

The Silver Fox edition features an aircraft-style superstructure, transverse floor, and a full-wall slide room that is 26 inches deep. The transverse floor design increases the width of the floor inside, creating a feeling of spaciousness. By using a dual rack and pinion slide mechanism and a strong aluminum superstructure, Northwood Manufacturing builds its Arctic Fox campers so that the slideout can be extended even while people are sitting in the slideout area. Heavy-duty rollers move the slideout smoothly and quietly, while five separate seals guard against water intrusion during wet weather.

With the extra depth of its slideouts, Arctic Fox is able to offer several options. For example, in the overhead bunk option, a hinged interior panel folds down from the upper wall and ceiling of the slideout and converts into an additional bunk bed over the dinette. Another option is a lounge instead of a dinette, with an optional “roll-over” lounge that converts into an extra sleeping area. All standard dinettes also convert to beds.

The bedroom suite in the Arctic Fox features a deluxe queen-size mattress with coordinated bedspread and window valence accents. A folding wall between the main cabin and sleeping area provides privacy.

Arctic Fox campers come in three interior color schemes. The interiors include solid oak hardwood features, textured wallboards on the interior walls and Ozite finished ceilings. Vinyl floor coverings are commercial grade, and there is also a carpeting option. The company offers campers in a range of floor plans, all with full-wall slideouts. The wet bath version of the Silver Fox Model 990 carries a suggested base retail price of $23,929.

For information on Arctic Fox campers, contact Northwood Manufacturing, 59948 Downs Road, La Grande, OR 97850. Phone (541) 962-6274 or visit www.northwoodmfg.com.

Bigfoot
New for 2006 from Bigfoot Industries in British Columbia is a long box version of the short box 25C9.4 camper that was introduced last year. These models are part of the Bigfoot 2500 camper series.

The model offers a spacious layout, with an aft galley with a three-burner cooktop, stainless steel double sink, 6-cubic-foot refrigerator and dinette with face-to-face seating.

All of the models in the 2500 series are constructed from two molded fiberglass shells and insulated with 1 1/2-inch high-density polystyrene block foam insulation. The fresh and wastewater holding tanks are enclosed, insulated and heated by a 30,000 BTU high-output furnace. There is an abundance of interior storage as well a large exterior basement storage compartment. The suggested base retail price is $21,870.

Bigfoot Industries, which also builds trailers and motorhomes, is in its 28th year as an RV company. For information about Bigfoot campers and to order a brochure, contact Bigfoot Industries, 4114 Crozier Road, Armstrong, British Columbia V0E lB6. Phone (250) 546-2177 or visit www.bigfootrv.com.

Citation Supreme
Built in British Columbia by General Coach, Citation Supreme truck campers are designed for all-season comfort. The company’s Polar Pak includes such standard features as high-density foam insulation, two-inch thick vacuum bonded walls with 3/4-inch thermal break, and a fully insulated basement with tanks and valves heated directly by the furnace.

New for 2006 is the Model 1050 slideout for long box trucks. The 1050 is a 100-inch wide body design that includes a queen-size bed, a bathroom with a separate sit/stand shower, and an expansive dinette area that slides out. The bedroom has more headroom than most other campers. Options include dual pane skylights with condensation control and Stormtite thermopane windows that eliminate condensation and filter out UV rays, reducing summer heat buildup.

New on the 1050 and other models is a redesigned optional bumper with three steps, making it easy to enter and exit the camper. A ladder provides access to the roof, and an optional awning over the entrance door extends eight feet. Suggested retail price on the base model 1050 is $25,380.

General Coach, which is part of Thor Industries, backs the Citation with a six-year limited structural and two-year component warranty.

For information, contact General Coach, P. O. Box 700, Oliver, British Columbia VOH 1T0. Phone (250) 498-3471 or visit www.generalcoach.bc.ca

Eagle Cap
The Eagle Cap 1050 offers a new design that includes a forward bath and a large rear kitchen/dining area, with a dinette slideout for extra room. Despite its many amenities, the 1050 has a comparatively low dry weight of 2,950 pounds.

Eagle Cap builds its campers with a welded aluminum superstructure, 100 percent vacuum laminated components and marine-grade fiberglass exterior. The materials and design keep the weight low, giving buyers flexibility in choosing a truck to carry the camper.

The manufacturer’s suggested base price on the Eagle Cap 1050 is $23,275, but popular options can push it above $30,000.

Eagle Cap is now owned by West Coast Leisure Homes, the Canadian builder of Okanagan campers. Intermountain RV, which built Eagle Cap campers, ceased operations in October of 2005, and its assets were purchased by West Coast Leisure Homes.

With new management and a staff of 42 at its plant in La Grande, Oregon, Eagle Cap has resumed production of its most popular models, with a dinette slideout available on most floor plans. Brian Tolley, Eagle Cap sales manager, said Eagle Cap is making improvements to what was already “a sound and innovative product line” by increasing the sidewall gelcoat thickness, for example, and adding other steps to add to the fit and finish quality.

For information, contact Eagle Cap Campers, 59999 Smith Loop, La Grande, OR 97850. Phone (541) 663-1607 or visit www.eaglecapcampers.com.

Host
If one truck camper slideout is good, Host Industries figured two should be even better, and so it has pioneered double slideouts, building campers that are known for their spacious interiors.
With two slideouts extended, the new Host Tahoe 10’6” has 10 feet, six inches of interior width, with the dinette area sliding out on one side and the kitchen on the other. The result is a wide, unobstructed floor area that offers room to maneuver. When one person is cooking at the stove, for example, another person can walk by easily, instead of having to squeeze by.

Host Co-owner Dave Hogue said slideouts on both sides of the camper also add to the balance of the unit. Other design measures, such as putting holding tanks forward in the unit, also enable Host to build a truck camper that handles very well on the road. Host campers are built light, using a vacuum lamination process, an aluminum frame, a fiberglass exterior and a one-piece roof of thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO)

The Tahoe has a powerful 34,000 BTU forced-air furnace and large holding tanks: 60 gallons for fresh water, 45 gallons for gray water and 35 gallons for black water.

Double slideouts are available on three of Host’s models; single slideouts are either standard or an option on all models. The Tahoe carries a suggested base retail price of $27,370 with the standard single slideout; a second slideout adds $1,400.

Host Industries was started by Hogue and Mark Storch, whose fathers created Beaver campers and motorhomes. For information about Host campers, contact Host Industries, 300 SE Scott St., Bend, OR 97702. Phone (541) 330-2328 or visit www.hostcampers.com

Lance
By adding four new floor plans for 2006, Lance gives buyers a choice of 15 models—one to fit just about any size or need. As the nation’s largest truck camper manufacturer, Lance groups its models into four product lines: Lance Lite, Lance Sports Camper, Lance and Lance Max.

The low-priced Lance Lite series has six models tailored to people’s budgets. The new Sports Camper series was developed for serious outdoor enthusiasts. The “value-added” Lance series is for RVers seeking more features and comes with increased cabover headroom, more floor space and larger tank capacities.

All Lance Max models come with full-wall slideouts, greatly increasing the interior room and adding to the overall comfort. That feeling of spaciousness is carried through in the Lance Max 981 with a huge skylight above the bed in the cabover area and another large skylight in the bathroom.

Even larger and more luxurious is the Lance Max 1191, which has the advantage of a side entry, an extra convenience for anyone who wants to tow a boat or trailer. The 1191 includes a large bathroom with separate shower, additional storage space and very large holding tanks (42 gallons fresh, 35 gray and 38 black).

New this year in all Lance and Lance Max models is a full-size mirrored wardrobe in the cabover. The wardrobe is deep enough to handle storage bins. Another new design this year is a wraparound sofa/bed in Ultra Leather. It has a removable table, and a center section that pulls out for lounging or sleeping.

Lance builds its campers with welded aluminum and bonded lamination technologies, TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roofs and solid high-density, rigid block foam insulation for year-round use. Suggested retail prices of Lance Max models range from $29,848 to $35,987. Other models start as low as $13,454.

For information, contact Lance Camper Manufacturing Corp., 43120 Venture Street, Lancaster, CA 93535-4510. Phone (661) 949-3322 or visit www.lancecamper.com.

Northern Lite
New for 2006 from Northern Lite is the 9’6” Queen Classic SE, which offers lots of extra features and still maintains a surprisingly low weight—2,150 pounds with standard equipment and under 2,400 pounds even with a number of options.

Northern Lite builds its campers with a process that uses two pieces of molded fiberglass and is similar to construction of a fiberglass boat. Owner Mac Donkin said the weight is kept low by the use of materials such as Nidacore flooring, which is half the weight of plywood, and Dometic acrylic thermal pane windows, which are half the weight of conventional thermal pane windows.

The 9’6”Queen Classic SE includes a face-to-face dinette, a full queen-size mattress, heated and insulated tanks, an extra-large dual battery box, stainless steel sink, and a 6.3-cubic-foot refrigerator. The model carries a suggested retail price of $24,070.

Northern Lite uses oak veneer paneling, builds drawers with Russian birch and metal guides, and never uses particle board. Careful attention to quality has earned the company a five-star rating from the RV Consumer Group for eight straight years.

For information, contact Northern Lite Manufacturing, 322 Totom Court, Kelowna, British Columbia V1X 5W6. Phone (800) 887-5342 or visit www.northern-lite.com.

Okanagan
You can warm yourself by the electric fireplace while you are watching a DVD on a flat-screen TV in the new 116ULT camper, part of the Ultimate Suite Series from Okanagan.

The 116ULT is a double-slideout model with a U-shaped dinette extending outward on one side and an entire kitchen extending outward on the other to create a roomy interior. In addition to an electric fireplace, this model also offers many other options, such as an 8- or 10-cubic-foot refrigerator in place of the standard 6-cubic-foot version, a Step-N-Stow storage bumper with a fold-down step, and a large rear awning.

The 116ULT is designed for extended camping with large heated and enclosed holding tanks, including a 63-gallon fresh water tank. Okanagan says its bathroom is the largest seen in a truck camper, with a full-height fiberglass neo-angle shower with a skylight, a large linen closet and a spacious vanity. The camper has 40 cubic feet of exterior storage to handle camping gear and other items.

Construction features include welded steel framing that is laminated into the floor and attached around the perimeter of the slideout openings for superior structural integrity. The peaked laminated roof is 3 1/2 inches thick at the center, creating a ducted roof air conditioner option. Suggested retail price of the Okanagan 116 ULT ranges from $36,000 to $42,000, depending on how it is equipped.

Okanagan campers are built by West Coast Leisure Homes, which also produces fifth wheels, travel trailers and van conversions. For information, contact West Coast Leisure Homes, 316 Dawson Avenue, Penticton, British Columbia V2A 3N6. Phone (250) 493-1535 or visit www.okanaganrv.com.

S&S
S&S has introduced a new truck camper, the Ponderosa 8.5 FBSC, billed as the only non-slideout camper with a full-booth dinette and a sliding step. The camper has a set of steps that can be hidden away under a booth seat and then pulled out to provide easy access to the queen-size bed over the cab.

S&S Owner Doug Sieler said many camper buyers are older people who find it awkward and difficult to climb into a high bed. The innovative step system solves that problem, and when not in use, the steps can be stored away to create more floor space.

The new model is a self-contained unit that is 8.5 feet long and 8 feet wide. It comes with an insulated and heated basement, a double stainless steel sink with cutting board, a three-burner range with oven, double-door refrigerator, a 20,000 BTU forced-air furnace, and a one-piece TP0 (thermoplastic polyolefin) roof. Other standard amenities include a mirrored headboard, AM/FM/CD stereo system, and a Montana gun drawer.

Another unique advantage for a camper of this size for both long and short box trucks is that it has room to add an optional Onan generator. Suggested retail price is about $18,000.

For information, contact S&S Campers, 2740 Highway 93 South, Kalispell, MT 59901. Phone (800) 735-6909 or visit www.s-scampers.com

Fun with Fiberglass

Read article : Fun with Fiberglass

Photographer:

Lightweight molded-fiberglass RVs are designed for long-term durability and improved mpg — and they look cool, too

RVs are constructed in a number of different ways, but many follow the same basic blueprint: Start with a steel or aluminum frame, build up the walls with wood and/or aluminum, more framing and composite materials, cover the structure with a roof and wrap the entire unit with either aluminum panels or gelcoat fiberglass. While conventional construction methods work well, another successful strategy has been in place for years and continues to flourish: molded fiberglass.

 RVs built from molded fiberglass are sleek and shiny, and share their origins with the marine industry (think boat hull). In a molded-fiberglass trailer, fifth-wheel or truck camper, the rigid fiberglass body actually serves as the main framing element, as well as the interior and exterior skin. The body of the RV is essentially two pieces that clamshell together, resulting in a durable, corrosion-resistant body that is quite strong and can have several advantages over traditionally built RVs.

Casita Spirit Deluxe" width="400" height="267" />Casita Spirit Deluxe

“The two-piece fiberglass shell has one main seam around the center belt line,” explains Grant Bilodeau, president of Bigfoot RV. “Traditional trailers are made of many separate side, floor and roof panels, and are then screwed together with many moldings and seals. As RVs are meant to travel down the road, a traditional trailer will flex over time, and all the extra seams and joints become higher maintenance and risk points for leaking. With a fiberglass trailer, thereis only one seam to worry about.”

“Fiberglass molded trailers are sprayed into a mold with gelcoat and fiberglass,” Bilodeau adds. “The glass content is like the rebar in concrete — it gives you all your strength, as the resin binds it all together.”

Fiberglass construction can also lead to some positive results when it comes to fuel mileage, handling and durability. “Our fiberglass campers are 25 percent lighter than conventionally built truck campers,” says Keith Donkin, general manager at Northern Lite Manufacturing. “They are very aerodynamically designed for improved fuel efficiency, and they feature a very low center of gravity, which eliminates the sway of a conventionally built camper.”

Improved towing characteristics and longevity do come with a trade-off. Molded-fiberglass RVs can be a bit more costly than their conventionally built counterparts. But manufacturers of fiberglass RVs claim the difference in price can easily be amortized over the lifetime of the RV.

Dub-Box USA

“Generally, people like our trailers because they are easy to tow, easy to set up, and they last forever,” reports Kent Eveland, president of Scamp Trailers. “Most of the trailers we built in the 1970s are still in use.”

Robert P. Partee, general sales manager of Oliver Travel Trailers, agrees. “Most fiberglass trailers hold their value over the years much better than the standard-build types,” he says. “Constructing travel trailers with fiberglass has been flying under the radar for years.”

Often eclectic, sometimes retro-chic and always eye-catching, molded-fiberglass RVs are frequently the focus of online communities and club rallies. “We find our trailers appeal to all ages in part because of the nostalgia factor, as well as the simplicity and weight,” says Heather Gardella, president of Dub Box USA.

Check out the following collection of some of the more interesting fiberglass RVs on the market today.

Bigfoot

Bigfoot Industries manufactures a variety of travel trailers and truck campers, all featuring clamshell molded-fiberglass construction.

Bigfoot actually overlaps the top shell onto the bottom and uses a special sealant to further guard against water penetration. The 2500 series travel trailers include R-8 insulation, which, when combined with the fiberglass base (less conductive than aluminum or steel), creates a more livable four-season RV, according to Bilodeau. Seven floorplans ranging from 17 to 25 feet are available. The 25B25FB boasts a full rear bath, sleeping space for up to six and standards that include a porcelain toilet, aluminum wheels, heated and enclosed tanks, and aliving-area skylight. The option to enclose the A-frame and add cargo space is not only practical but looks great as well. Other options includea solar-power system, 11,000-Btu roof air conditioner, exterior speakers and an electric A-frame jack.

250-546-2155
www.bigfootrv.com

Casita

For 33 years, Casita has been building lightweight fiberglass trailers. The 17-foot Casita Spirit Deluxe offers comfortable sleeping arrangements for three, with a bit more space for guests, provided they are of the smaller variety. Both sleeping areas convert to dinettes by day, meaning the trailer can easily accommodate more than it can sleep before the sun goes down. A couch/bunk-bed option ups the ante even more. The surprisingly wide-open floorplan means occupants won’t trip over each other while moving about. In Deluxe models, a large, full-featured bathroom is located at the front of the trailer, as is a roomy storage wardrobe. Standard features include custom marine-grade fiberglass furniture, carpet-lined storage compartments and a powered roof vent. Owners can also opt for LED lighting, a microwave, an electric A-frame jack and a larger gray-water holding tank.

800-442-9986
www.casitatraveltrailers.com

Dub Box

Dub Box USA manufactures lightweight fiberglass trailers reminiscent of the Volkswagen Microbus popular in the 1960s and ’70s. Dub Box trailers are not true Volkswagen conversions but are in fact manufactured from a fiberglass mold made from the vintage VW Bus. Each Dub Box trailer comes equipped with classic moon-style hubcaps, a hot/cold outdoor shower, a two-burner stove, a sink, a 3-cubic-foot refrigerator, an LP-gas water heater, an L-shaped convertible couch with 4-inch cushions, a folding dinette table and Sunbrella weather curtains for the pop-top. Options include air conditioning, solar panels, a luggage roof rack and a storage box on the A-frame. Buyers get to select the paint color for the exterior to match their tow vehicle.

503-744-0032
www.dub-box-usa.com

Eggcamper

Eggcamper trailers are ultralightweight and offer a fun way to enjoy RVing. Available only from the factory in Grandville, Michigan, and weighing less than 2,000 pounds (dry, without options), the Eggcamper can be towed by almost any properly equipped truck, van or SUV. The all-white trailers may look spartan inside, but they contain all the amenities needed for weekend fun, including sleeping space for two to four, a galley with a stainless sink, a 2.4-cubic-foot refrigerator, available air-conditioner, appliances and a lavatory with a toilet (or a large storage area instead). Plus, the smooth interior makes cleanup a breeze. The Dexter Torflex suspension is a welcome inclusion, as are the power roof vent and radius safety-glass windows with screens and miniblinds. LP-gas options are available, in addition to the electric-only model powered by an appropriately sized AC generator, along with the standard 30-amp converter with charger.

616-437-9255
www.eggcamper.com

Escape

Another big name in the molded-fiberglass market is Escape Trailers. Based in Chilliwack, British Columbia, Escape offers several fiberglass travel trailers and more recently introduced a fifth-wheel. All Escape trailers are compact and lightweight for easy towing, and the Escape 21 is designed specifically for tow vehicles with weight ratings down to 5,000 pounds. But don’t be fooled by the diminutive size. Escape trailers are equipped with full galleys, bathrooms and living areas, in addition to oak cabinetry, high-grade linoleum flooring and an insulated headliner. Other impressive standards include two roof vents, LED ceiling lighting, full-surround overhead storage and a holding-tank monitor. Popular options range from appliance upgrades to a stereo, a water filter and a solar charging system.

855-703-1650
www.escapetrailer.com

Happier Camper

In addition to offering vintage restored fiberglass rentals, Happier Camper now builds the unique HC1 trailer. The base-price HC1 begins as an empty shell built using bonded double-hull fiberglass with 1.5-inch honeycomb fiberglass flooring. Grooves are embedded in the flooring to accommodate the modular components (think Legos) that will make up the custom floorplan, including a kitchenette, benches, cushions, an AC/DC refrigerator cube, tables, floor panels — there’s even a portable-potty cube. Buyers can configure the layout exactly as they’d like it, and the price is determined by the selected modules. LED lighting comes standard, as do built-in rear stabilizing jacks and an undercarriage-mounted full-size spare tire. Add-ons include compatible comfort heating, stereos, electric fans and moon-style hubcaps.

818-649-9099
www.happiercamper.com

Nest Caravans

A newcomer to the fiberglass-trailer market, Nest Caravans from Bend, Oregon, combines the easy-towing
capabilities of a lighter-weight fiberglass trailer with elegantsophistication and an eye for detail. Nest trailers are available in five color combinations with an array of useful exterior standards, including a nosecone storage box, all-LED exterior lighting, BAL stabilizing jacks and frameless windows. Inside, dimmable switches help control the mood with all-LED lighting, and the galley shimmers with a stainless-steel sink, two-burner cooktop and 3.2-cubic-foot refrigerator. The full-time queen bed can comfortably sleep two. Options include a convertible dinette, natural cork tiles, a microwave and an entertainment system.

541-610-2292
www.nestcaravans.com

Northern Lite

Another Canadian manufacturer, Northern Lite Manufacturing in Kelowna, British Columbia, builds fiberglass truck campers designed to withstand extreme weather. The company’s top-selling Ten 2000 EX CD SE boasts some impressive features like 95-watt solar panels, a 10-foot side awning, an LCD TV and DVD player, thermal-pane windows and skylight, solid hardwood and more. There’s even a full 14-inch basement with heated and enclosed storage tanks. Sleep like a baby on the 60 x 80-inch queen bed, or take a warm shower in the large bathroom area. Options include an air conditioner, electric jacks, LED lighting in the electric awning, battery-disconnect, an extended patio bumper, and a boat rack and ladder. With a floor length of more than 11 feet, this camper weighs in at 1,400 to 2,000 pounds lighter than comparable conventionally built campers with the same features, offering buyers the best of both worlds.

250-765-3702
www.northern-lite.com

Oliver

Oliver Travel Trailers offers two fiberglass trailers, the Legacy and Legacy Elite II. “Ollies,” as they’re called, begin at the Tennessee factory with dual fiberglass shells. The shells are then wrapped around a hefty 2 x 5-inch aircraft-grade-aluminum box-tube frame, offering additional rigidity and durability. All holding tanks and components are enclosed between the inner and outer shells for superior insulation benefits and protection from the elements. The 2016 Legacy Elite II has a number of impressive features, from the custom-molded-fiberglass spare-tire and LP-gas cylinder covers to LED lighting, marine-grade stainless-steel cabinet latches and eye-catching interior gelcoat walls and cabinets. Options range from fiber-granite countertops to a solar package, plus a tech-savvy selection that includes Wi-Fi and cell-phone boosters, a rearview camera, and satellite antennas and wiring.

931-796-1178
www.olivertraveltrailers.com

Scamp

Scamp fiberglass trailers are sold factory-direct in Backus, Minnesota. Available in 13- and 16-foot trailers and a 19-foot fifth-wheel, the nimble RVs are ideal for couples and smaller families on weekend getaways. Scamp has always focused on easeof use and maneuverability. Its trailers are durable, lightweight and aerodynamic, and are designed to be towed by properly equipped small cars, SUVs, minivans and trucks.

The 13-footer is available in Standard or Deluxe (upgraded interior), with a convertible sofa or a shower and toilet up front. The options package that includes the lavatory features a 1.9-cubic-foot refrigerator, a screen door, a water pump, a water heater, a gravel shield and a window above the range. Additional add-ons include cabinet configurations, a 2-inch hitch receiver for bike racks, TV hookups and antenna, and an 8-foot awning.

800-346-4962
www.scamptrailers.com

Weis Craft

The Little Joe is a lightweight fiberglass trailer that offers two people a comfortable place to stay while on the road. Inside, dual sofas fold down to create the ultimate 78 x 63-inch sleeping area. Although the Little Joe doesn’t have bathroom facilities (those come in Weis Craft’s Ponderosa model for an additional $6,000), a two-burner cooktop and a standard icebox allow for gourmet campsite fare (a refrigerator option is available), and a small freshwater tank lets owners clean up after a long day’s adventure. Options abound in the Little Joe, including a furnace, air conditioning, folding shelves, a three-speed reversible fan and an 8-foot awning. And, chances
are, you already own a vehicle that can haul the Little Joe.

303-947-2351
www.weiscrafttrailers.com/littlejoe

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REVIEW: Accor Hotels in Hong Kong: Novotel Century and Novotel Hong Kong, Nathan Road Kowloon

Read article : REVIEW: Accor Hotels in Hong Kong: Novotel Century and Novotel Hong Kong, Nathan Road Kowloon

I’m packing my bags for Korea, Japan and Penang. The last 2 weeks of October promised to be stimulating, fun and busy.
From bulgolgi to sashimi to Penang char koay teow, I’m ready for the ride! 😀

I took out my stuffs from my luggage (yes I don’t unpack much, I have a travel set of everything, blame it on the frequent travels I do) last week since I’m packing for the cold, with Korea and Japan at 16-25 celcius. As I dug out Hong Kong instant noodles, HK dollars and maps memories came flooding back.
Oh, the craziness of the Hong Kong es-capers Scavenger Hunt by Accor Hotels! Fun, adrenaline packed and an experience like no other!

We were hosted in 2 Novotels in Hong Kong, 1st night at Novotel Hong Kong, Nathan Road Kowloon and the next night at the Novotel Century Hong Kong.
Oh the comfy beds. The clean and functional accommodation. Bliss!

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Accor group of hotels in HK are the ibis and the Novotel, the former leans towards economy but never sacrificing comfort and the latter is contemporary and practical. One thing is for sure, locations of these hotels are faultless; situated right in the middle of a busy/popular part of Hong Kong or in the case of Novotel Citygate, merely 5 minutes from Hong Kong International Airport.

On my first day I only managed to check in NovotelHong Kong, Nathan Road Kowloon at 6pm after day 1 of the Hong Kong es-capers race. I have uploaded a video weeks back (here it is in case you would like a 3-D presentation of the room) and now let’s get into details of my one night stay.

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Novotel Hong Kong, Nathan Road Kowloon is a modern 4-star hotel centrally located in the heart of Kowloon’s famous shopping and commercial district.

In Hong Kong, it’s crucial to be near a MRT station, especially for those who are here to explore the rich cuisine and innumerable shopping districts. The Jordan station is 5 minutes away, and attractions such as the Temple Street Night Market, Ladies Market and Jade Market are all within walking distance.
Since I only had one night here (yea, pretty much a night stand LOL!), I’m able to tell you that the WIFI is strong, the bed is comfortable (in fact I was so tired I was dead as a fossil the moment I hit its sheets), a pillow menu is offered, the amenities and the bathroom were fine and the view was well, the city.

The fact that I only managed to check-in so late didn’t help for photography, but here’s the standard 24 sq metres room.

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Space is narrow, as expected of Hong Kong. But thoughtful details like a full length mirrors, overbed table and ample powerpoints makes up for it. Yes, I need powerpoints. Hotels with 2 powerpoints per room and none near the bed gets negative points from me!

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See my phone (red colour, on the floor) next to my bed? I would need another for the laptop. The overbed table is just marvelous. I don’t have to pile up a mountain of pillows over my legs as a shaky make shift table.

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One powerpoint near the bed means I need a 3 way plug/adapter. Which was supplied as well, in this drawer right beside the Pringles (sorry late in the evening and I was really tired by the time I started taking photos of the room, didn’t think of including it in this picture!).
Now, how’s that for convenience? 🙂

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Another powerpoint was conveniently located at the drinks making counter. I didn’t make any drinks, but used it instead for charging my battery pack.
As you know we were tweeting, Instagram-ing, FB-ing, taking pictures throughout the day during the race. An iPhone has only that much juice.

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The mini bar, which no hotel guests in their right mind would ever touch unless of course, they aren’t the one paying for the items.

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The work desk has more powerpoints. Thank god. These were for my camera and spare battery, which takes about 4 hours for a full charge so these were pretty much occupied for that sole purpose. So you get me when I said I need MANY powerpoints in my hotel rooms right?

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Other than electricity (and O2), I breathe and live on internet connectivity. Thankfully WIFI wasn’t any issue here.
Here’s how the internet works:

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Via the cable – provided as pictured below. Or via WIFI.

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Under the desk I spied 2 waste baskets; one on either end of the desk. The green one is for recyclable materials/wastes and the brown one is for normal waste.
An environmentally friendly hotel? More brownie points from me! 🙂

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Other standard amenities include the iron, safe, laundry bag, slippers and dress robe.

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The 2-seat sofa bed in the room can double up as a bed for a small child, which in this case was me. Anyhow I only had time to sit on it and pose for this picture.
Trust me, I barely warmed the seat.

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In case you haven’t noticed, each side of the bed came with an overhead reading light. Again a nice touch. If you’re traveling with someone and he/she decides to snooze earlier, he/she can turn off the light on his/her side.
I had the room to myself (even better!) so there wasn’t a problem. I stayed up late for updating my social platforms, work matters and some pictures transferring and back up (sigh, the life of a blogger) so the overbed table and the powerpoint at the bed side was god-sent.

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Fully automated controls makes life simpler. Everything at the touch of a button.

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I love pillow menus. Not many hotels offers this and if they do my choice would always be for the firm pillows. I have a perpetually nagging neckache.

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I requested for additional Pressure Relieving Pillow and it was delivered to my room promptly. And ah, now I know what are those orange pillows in the wardrobe earlier – they are medium soft feather pillows.

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Next, the washroom.

Small, clean, everything works as it should be and I have no complaints for a hotel of this standard. Again, environmentally friendly packaging plus quality bathroom amenities deserves brownie points.

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The amenities – soap, sanitary bag, nail file, cotton pads and cotton buds, gel scrub, body milk, shampoo and shower gel.

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You can drink straight from the tap.

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Hairdryer. A good powerful one too. I’m sure there are some of us who had stayed in hotels that provides hairdryers with as much energy as a battery operated fan, which then you’ll probably have better luck drying your mane next to the kitchen oven than via using that piece of useless equipment.

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Towels – hand towels, body towels, face towels. And a towel for the floor, which is to me is a very important detail.

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A separate shower stall for the shower with a choice of rain shower (top) or the usual showerhead from the wall. There’s heater of course.

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The welcome fruits, a bottle of wine and the chocolates was much appreciated. Thank you Novotel. Nothing like a personalized message to make you feel welcomed.

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That, and some freebies. I can’t complain.

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After a good night’s rest I woke up the next morning looking forward to breakfast. Hotel breakfasts are one of my favourites – the variety, the ability to eat as much or as little as you wish for hours (not that we have hours during this trip) and the opportunity to sample (hopefully) quality or uncommon food/drink.
The Square, the coffeehouse is located on the 1st floor and serves daily buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, healthy options for kids, as well as an ala- carte menu with options of organic produce.

NOTE: You do not need to touch your keycard to any sensor at the lift to access your room floor.

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And consider it a good start to the day when you meet some ‘happy’ people.

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While the quality is there, there were nothing out of the ordinary here.

Novotel Hong Kong, Nathan Road Kowloon is a popular hotel with both leisure and business travelers. The morning buffet was bustling with kids to teens in K-Pop attire to businessmen in suits.

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Food was decent and well, there’s plenty of pork.

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Breakfast is priced at HKD140.80 (RM70) after taxes. Thank goodness it was complimentary.

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If you have access to the Premier Lounge, then you have another option for breakfast. Selection are understandably less, but it is also more private and less busy.

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Free internet access through 7 iMacs in lobby are available for guests. There is also a 24-hr gym and a play area for kids with Xbox games. Yes, for kids. Thought no one is going to drive away if you were to plant your butt here.

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Lobby.

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No hotel is complete without a bar yes?

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Whew. All that photos for one night stay.
I barely had time to see the pool or the gym (inBalance). I don’t even know where are the meeting/function rooms are. According to their site, there are massage services as well.

Novotel Nathan Road Kowloon, Hong Kong - Breakfast-005" width="499" height="700" />

Novotel Nathan Road Kowloon, Hong Kong - Breakfast" />

Well, there’s always a next time. Our next night was at Novotel Century, Hong Kong. Click to read/view the pictures –> HERE.

Oh, say hi to the GM of Novotel Nathan Road, Mr Olivier Moies-Delval! 🙂

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Novotel Nathan Road Kowloon
No.348 Nathan Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China (Jordan)
Hotel Manager : Mr Olivier MOIES-DELVAL
GPS: N 22° 18′ 25.73” E 114° 10′ 18.13”

Novotel Nathan Road Kowloon, Hong Kong - Breakfast-032" />

I must thank the wonderful sponsors for this trip again – Cathay Pacific, Accor Hotels and Hong Kong Tourism Board for the experience and hospitality.
Next, please read about the Novotel Century in Hong Kong.

**Photos + video taken with the Sony NEX 5T.