Travaasa Destinations Announces the Opening of Its First Hotel, Travaasa Austin

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Apr 18, 2011, 03:58 ET

AUSTIN, Texas, April 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Travaasa Destinations, a new collection of experiential hotels, has opened its first location, Travaasa Austin, in Texas's Hill Country. Nestled against 210 acres of the Balcones Canyonlands Reserve, overlooking Lake Travis and only 25 minutes from downtown Austin, the property features 70 guestrooms, a wellness spa, organic and locally-sourced cuisine, and a diverse selection of customizable programming highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the area. Guests pay an all-inclusive rate which includes meals, daily spa treatments and as many activities as they wish. Travaasa Austin is currently offering a grand opening special discount of 30% on mid-week stays, through May 28, 2011 subject to availability

Travaasa Destinations was developed to provide an escape for those looking to experience something new, enrich their lives and immerse themselves in local traditions. The programming at Travaasa Austin reflects the brand's five pillars: adventure, culinary, culture, fitness and spa, while incorporating local and regional elements to create an authentic experience.

"Travaasa Austin offers guests the real flavor of Austin and Texas with its unique programming, design and philosophy inspired by the iconic region," says Jorah Anderson, culture coordinator at Travaasa Austin. "From equine experiences, cowboy poetry and storytelling at the fire pit, to an outdoor challenge course, fitness classes, yoga sessions and daily spa treatments, Travaasa Austin presents an extensive array of experiences."

The Spa at Travaasa Austin infuses authentic treatments and traditional techniques with exercise as part of its commitment to a holistic approach to relaxation and wellness. The spa features 11 treatment rooms, hot tub, dry sauna and an infinity pool overlooking the stunning and serene landscape of Hill Country. Services include body treatments, massages, facials and energy balancing services utilizing the all-natural Primavera and Anakiri skin care lines. The Spa offers a series of signature massages inspired by the music of Austin and Texas-influenced musicians, such as Willie Nelson and Janis Joplin, complete with a keepsake gift. Fitness offerings focus on balance, posture, core strength and flexibility, ranging from Zumba and Barre Fitness to traditional techniques. Guests will also enjoy unique workouts which tie into the rich culture of Austin, including a core and thigh routine that incorporates a mechanical bull.

The culinary offerings of Travaasa Austin reflect the property's emphasis on local roots and overall well-being. Executive Chef Benjamin Baker emphasizes a farm-to-table approach and creates Texas-fusion inspired menus with seasonal and locally produced ingredients. Fare such as the signature flourless chipotle chocolate cake immerses guests in local flavors, while cooking demonstrations and nutritional skills courses allow them to take a piece of Austin tradition home. Travaasa Austin also boasts a wine list that features selections from organic, biodynamic and boutique winemakers in addition to some of Texas's finest wineries.

"Travaasa Austin truly embraces the culture and beauty of the region from its musical history to its Western roots and allows guests to experience it in an authentic way," said Tim Thuell, general manager of Travaasa Austin. "Our goal is to provide a one-of-a-kind escape that is enriching, educational and relaxing."

Travaasa Austin is an ideal venue for retreats and meetings with 6,700 square feet of unique, flexible indoor space, all with beautiful natural light. Meeting and event planners can choose from a variety of settings ranging from traditional ballroom-style spaces with state-of-the-art audio/visual equipment, to a comfortable parlor setting with cozy couches and wrap-around porch. The property also features multiple outdoor spaces, such as the Solidago Gardens, which offer private outdoor event space and a spacious handcrafted wood and stone structure.

The hotel includes seven lodges with a total of 70 guestrooms that feature queen-sized beds, organic linens and additional amenities. Guests can choose between Hacienda rooms, which include flat-screen TVs, or Spa Casita rooms, which are complete with yoga mats and stretching ropes, and are ideal for unplugging. All guest rooms offer a deck or patio. Weekday prices start at $480 per person, per night based on double occupancy, excluding taxes and service charges. Rates include accommodations, three chef-prepared meals, snacks, a daily spa service or off-property activity such as golf, and all on-property activities.

Travaasa Destinations will introduce its second property, formerly the Hotel Hana-Maui, Travaasa Hana in June 2011.

For more information on Travaasa Destinations, visit www.travaasa.com or call 855.TO.TRAVAASA (855.868.7282). Follow Travaasa Austin at twitter.com/travaasa_austin and facebook.com/travaasa.austin.

Green Tea LLC. is a subsidiary hotel acquisition, development and management company owned by Amstar, a leading real estate investment manager with more than $1.5 billion in assets. The Travaasa Destinations concept is the brainchild of Joy Berry, an executive director of Amstar and co-founder and president of Green Tea, LLC., and Chris Manning, a vice president of Amstar and co-founder and principal of Green Tea, LLC.

SOURCE Travaasa Destinations