Latest news with #European-inspired
Sydney Morning Herald
20 hours ago
- Automotive
- Sydney Morning Herald
Boost for e-bike commuters could be the new work from home
Sydney's peak-hour roads groan under gridlock, pollution and commuter frustrations, so a proposal to pay cyclists to ride to work is so obvious it is a wonder NSW governments have not previously considered such a simple fix. In a Herald exclusive by reporter Daniel Lo Surdo, a secret internal document circulated by a senior government bureaucrat last October proposed that Sydney cyclists be paid to ride an e-bike or e-scooter to work under a European-inspired financial incentive scheme. The proposal is the opening salvo to promote the uptake of electric-powered devices on streets across the state. Among the sweeteners suggested were tax incentives that would allow riders to claim a per-kilometre allowance for each commute and one-off rebates to offset the expense associated with buying an e-bike. Similar schemes have been introduced in France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and New Zealand, with widespread acceptance reported. Two years ago, Queensland and Tasmania also offered rebates to offset the expense of purchasing e-bikes. The bike-to-work programs found in most countries usually take the form of a tax incentive whereby tax-free bonuses are added to an employee's salary each month for cycling to work, instead of driving a car. There are more than a million e-bike and e-scooter owners in NSW, and almost one-third of residents in central Sydney own an e-bike, with the biggest uptake among cyclists in their teens and twenties. But there are some bumps that need to be ironed out. E-bikes have safety concerns due to the fire threat posed by their lithium-ion batteries. Paris banned rental e-scooters in 2023, and an e-scooter trial in Melbourne was abruptly ended last year after footpaths were declared unsafe for pedestrians. Yet, we are grappling with many of the same issues, chief among them riding on footpaths, failure to wear helmets, drinking, hazardous dumping of rented bikes and the risk of injury to riders and bystanders alike. Insurance cover is not mandatory for private riders and is inconsistent among rental providers. With e-scooters set to become legal on NSW public roads later this year, problematic issues associated with their use are not insurmountable. Public awareness campaigns like the one launched last year by Northern Beaches Council will help, as will common sense on all sides. Should the Minns government agree to trial that pays cyclists to ride to work, undoubtedly there will be calls for dedicated bike lanes, charging stations and improvements in bicycle parking at train stations. Cycling organisations have pushed these policies for years, arguing that satnav tracking and the user-pays future awaiting vehicles will turbo-drive bike use among commuters. The biggest disincentives to new cyclists could be Sydney's hilly topography. But the benefits are self-evident: improved health and well-being, reduced carbon footprint (some reports say by 75 per cent) and low running costs that ensure financial savings. Paid to pedal to work certainly looks an idea whose time has finally come.
Sydney Morning Herald
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Sydney Morning Herald
You're paid to cycle to work in France and the Netherlands. Sydney could be next
Sydney commuters would be paid to ride an e-bike or e-scooter to work under a European-inspired financial incentive scheme being assessed by the NSW government, in a bid to promote the uptake of electric-powered devices on streets across the state. Financial incentives for e-micromobility devices were proposed in a secret internal document circulated by a senior government bureaucrat in October, three days before then-transport minister Jo Haylen announced a pathway for the legalising of e-scooters on public roads. Among the sweeteners suggested were a tax incentive that would allow riders to claim a per-kilometre allowance for each commute, which could replicate successful schemes applied in the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, with the latter country observing cycling participation more than doubled in the second year of the program. Transport for NSW projected that e-bike riders would undertake four additional trips every month with the backing of the financial incentive, while e-scooters, which would be made legal subject to the passing of legislation later this year, would be used on six further occasions each month. 'When the conditions are right, the experience in other jurisdictions shows that financial incentives can increase ownership and ridership,' read the internal document, obtained by the Herald. 'Locally, research has shown that financial incentives would encourage people in NSW who already own a bike (including e-bikes) and e-scooters to take more trips.' The document also suggested introducing one-off rebates to offset the expense of purchasing an e-bike, mirroring schemes implemented in Queensland and Tasmania over the past two years Australia Institute research manager Morgan Harrington, who last year co-wrote a discussion paper recommending a ride-to-work cycling allowance be introduced, said fresh ideas are needed to confront transport challenges posed by rising populations and urban sprawl.
The Age
2 days ago
- Automotive
- The Age
You're paid to cycle to work in France and the Netherlands. Sydney could be next
Sydney commuters would be paid to ride an e-bike or e-scooter to work under a European-inspired financial incentive scheme being assessed by the NSW government, in a bid to promote the uptake of electric-powered devices on streets across the state. Financial incentives for e-micromobility devices were proposed in a secret internal document circulated by a senior government bureaucrat in October, three days before then-transport minister Jo Haylen announced a pathway for the legalising of e-scooters on public roads. Among the sweeteners suggested were a tax incentive that would allow riders to claim a per-kilometre allowance for each commute, which could replicate successful schemes applied in the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, with the latter country observing cycling participation more than doubled in the second year of the program. Transport for NSW projected that e-bike riders would undertake four additional trips every month with the backing of the financial incentive, while e-scooters, which would be made legal subject to the passing of legislation later this year, would be used on six further occasions each month. 'When the conditions are right, the experience in other jurisdictions shows that financial incentives can increase ownership and ridership,' read the internal document, obtained by the Herald. 'Locally, research has shown that financial incentives would encourage people in NSW who already own a bike (including e-bikes) and e-scooters to take more trips.' The document also suggested introducing one-off rebates to offset the expense of purchasing an e-bike, mirroring schemes implemented in Queensland and Tasmania over the past two years Australia Institute research manager Morgan Harrington, who last year co-wrote a discussion paper recommending a ride-to-work cycling allowance be introduced, said fresh ideas are needed to confront transport challenges posed by rising populations and urban sprawl.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
NORTH AMERICA'S LARGEST AC HOTEL DEBUTS IN ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA'S NATIONAL LANDING
The AC Hotel Arlington National Landing features 355 rooms, a swanky restaurant and lounge, and connectivity to America's Capitol City AC Hotel Arlington National Landing Debuts with Striking Modern Façade and Inviting Outdoor Patio at the Corner of South Bell Street and 20th Street South in Crystal City's National Landing Neighborhood The AC Kitchen & Lounge Debuts at AC Hotel Arlington National Landing Blends Sleek Design and Sophisticated Spirits in a European-Inspired Setting Arlington, VA, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AC Hotel Arlington National Landing is officially open, unveiling a multi-million dollar transformation. The reimagined property joins Marriott International's AC Hotels brand portfolio with distinction, as it's the largest AC Hotel in North America with 355 European-inspired guest rooms. Highlights also include the debut of the sophisticated AC Kitchen & Lounge, a brand-new lobby and AC Library, 8,800 square feet of completely refreshed meetings and events space, a reimagined exterior façade, and a 4,000-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness center. "This opening marks an exciting new chapter not only for our team, but for the evolving identity of National Landing," said Ben Joseph, General Manager at AC National Landing. "Our prime location to major transportation systems matched with our bold, new identity and state-of-the-art facilities is a welcome addition to the community for special events, meetings, celebratory occasions, and a thoughtfully designed home away from home.' Formerly the Crystal City Marriott, the AC Hotel Arlington National Landing is located in the heart of Arlington's National Landing district, and offers unmatched connectivity for today's traveler. Just steps from the Crystal City Metro and minutes from Reagan National Airport, with complimentary shuttle service available to guests, the hotel provides seamless access to Arlington and Washington, D.C. Surrounded by walkable retail, entertainment and wellness options - including the Mount Vernon Trail for walking, jogging and biking, and Long Bridge Aquatics Center - the property is also nearby Amazon HQ2, Virginia Tech's Innovation Campus and I-395. Design That Moves With the NeighborhoodOne of the most prominent aspects of the hotel is its rounded facade that uniquely envelopes Crystal City's prime corner of South Bell Street and 20th Street South, where its ambient glow mirrors the community's revitalized spirit. An inviting arrival experience begins from the outside with a new dynamic lighting feature that gradually brightens as vehicles enter the porte-cochere, and continues with clear, modern signage and updated drive aisle displays for seamless wayfinding. Inside, the reimagined lobby and AC Library is thoughtfully composed of intimate nooks, using subtle architectural cues to create the illusion of rooms within rooms for a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. Sleek, sculptural, and effortlessly refined, the indoor/outdoor AC Kitchen & Lounge at AC Hotel Arlington National Landing serves as a visual anchor for the cosmopolitan neighborhood. Centered around a geometric backlit bar framed in black glass shelving, the space marries sophisticated minimalism with warmth, exuding an aesthetic of soft neutrals, millwork, and burnished-metal details. Accordion-style windowed doors blur the line between inside and out, opening onto an expansive patio framed by lush greenery and sculptural planters. Thoughtfully arranged seating invites guests to linger, whether for quiet moments or unique corporate receptions in the open air. Guestrooms at AC Hotel Arlington National Landing offer a purposeful balance of contemporary elegance and effortless comfort for business and leisure travelers alike, signature to the brand's European-inspired design. A harmonious palette of textured grays and midnight blues complements clean architectural lines and uncluttered surfaces to create a serene atmosphere designed for function and flow. Handmade artistic pieces cultivate a connection to local creatives, while expansive windows with wide seating nooks frame sweeping views of Arlington and its evolving cosmopolitan skyline. The new 4,000-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness center is filled with natural light, courtesy of expansive skylights that create an airy, invigorating atmosphere. Outfitted with the latest high-performance equipment, the space also features two private studio rooms ideal for group fitness training. The AC Kitchen & Lounge: European Flavor, Neighborhood FlairThe AC Kitchen & Lounge offers a dining experience rooted in connection and unscripted moments. Guided by the culinary vision of Executive Chef Anoop Nathoo, the menu draws on the tapas tradition of Spain, with shareable plates that celebrate fresh, regional ingredients and seasonal inspirations. Breakfast and dinner are served daily, with offerings that range from artfully prepared classics to inventive small plates that reflect the chef's global background. Behind the bar, knowledgeable mixologists bring an approachable expertise to every pour – crafting cocktails with house-made infusions, hand-selected bitters, and local garnishes that invite discovery. AC Kitchen is open for a European-style buffet or full-service breakfast experience from 6 to 11 a.m.; AC Lounge happy hour is available Monday through Friday from 4 to 6:30 p.m.; and dinner is available seven days a week from 4 p.m. to midnight. Meetings & Events: Collaborate in StyleWith more than 8,800 square feet of newly renovated, flexible meeting and event space, AC Hotel Arlington National Landing is thoughtfully designed to accommodate gatherings of every scale - from high-level board meetings and corporate conferences to elegant receptions and intimate celebrations. All 11 venues are conveniently located on the same floor, offering minimalist interiors that serve as a sophisticated canvas for planners to customize or use as-is. Each space is equipped with advanced audiovisual technology, including high-definition LCD projectors, high-speed internet bandwidth, and seamless wired and wireless connectivity ideal for hybrid meetings, live-streaming, and interactive virtual formats. A dedicated team of on-site event and A/V professionals is always on hand to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish. Exclusive Grand Opening PackageTo celebrate the official opening of AC Hotel Arlington National Landing, travelers are invited to book its limited-time package that includes exclusive perks designed to savor every detail of the hotel. The Grand Opening Package includes a complimentary upgrade upon arrival*, a $50 credit to indulge in craft cocktails and Spanish-inspired bites at the AC Lounge, complimentary parking throughout their stay, and a complimentary late check-out at 2 p.m. to ensure a relaxed departure, ideal for savoring every last moment in Arlington's most connected neighborhood. Additionally, a hand-crafted welcome treat prepared by Executive Chef Nathoo awaits in your room. The Napolitaine Cookie is two buttery shortbreads filled with jam and topped with colored icing, specially enhanced with Spain's Membrillo for a unique fruity flavor. Chef Nathoo was born and raised in Glen Park in Vacoas, Mauritius, where his fondest memory is of napolitaine cookies - for Chef, this cookie is more than a treat, it's a taste of nostalgia and a taste of home. The Grand Opening Package starts at $189/night and is available to book here. *Room upgrades are pending availability. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit the hotel's website are available here. ## # About AC Hotels by Marriott Arlington National LandingThe AC Hotel Arlington National Landing is a premier destination in Arlington, VA, offering unparalleled service, modern amenities, and a prime location. The distinguished hotel offers 355 guest rooms and suites, the signature AC Kitchen & Lounge, 8,828 square feet of flexible event space, and amenities including a 24-hour 4,000 square-foot-fitness center and a complimentary shuttle to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Conveniently located near I-395 and the Crystal City Metro, the property unlocks access to the best of nearby Washington D.C., National Landing's retail and dining, and is mere minutes to Amazon's HQ2, Virginia Tech's Innovation Campus, and Old Town Alexandria. For more information, visit and follow along on Facebook and Instagram. The hotel is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the global travel program from Marriott International. About HHM HotelsHHM Hotels is an award-winning hotel management and investment company that operates over 235 full-service and select-service hotels across the United States and Canada. HHM Hotels is in virtually every major hospitality market from coast to coast, and is a leading manager of Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and IHG hotels, while also operating over 50 independent luxury and lifestyle hotels. HHM Hotels' highly experienced and stable operating team is known for being nimble, accountable, and entrepreneurial in how they drive market-leading results for owners including publicly traded companies, private equity firms, and family office investors. Additional information can be found at Media ContactLou Hammond GroupNLH@ ### Attachments AC Hotel Arlington National Landing Debuts with Striking Modern Façade and Inviting Outdoor Patio at the Corner of South Bell Street and 20th Street South in Crystal City's National Landing Neighborhood The AC Kitchen & Lounge Debuts at AC Hotel Arlington National Landing Blends Sleek Design and Sophisticated Spirits in a European-Inspired Setting CONTACT: Laurean Love HHM Hotels in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Marriott opens largest AC Hotel in North America
This story was originally published on Hotel Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Hotel Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: Marriott International opened the largest AC Hotel in North America in Arlington, Virginia, hospitality management firm HHM Hotels announced earlier this week. The 355-room AC Hotel Arlington National Landing opened after a multimillion-dollar transformation of the former Crystal City Marriott. The property offers an AD Kitchen & Lounge, a 4,000-square-foot fitness center and 8,800 square feet of meeting and event space. The AC Hotel Arlington National Landing follows other recently opened AC Hotels in Arizona, California and Georgia. The brand is one of several in Marriott's expanding lifestyle portfolio, which includes the recently acquired CitizenM. Dive Insight: The former Crystal City Marriott's lobby, meeting spaces, exterior facade and food and beverage were all updated in the hotel's revamp. The AC Hotel also now features an AC Library with nooks for lounging and 'European-inspired' design, according to HHM. The property is in Arlington's National Landing district, walking distance to the Washington, D.C., Metro and minutes by car from Reagan National Airport. "Our prime location to major transportation systems matched with our bold, new identity and state-of-the-art facilities is a welcome addition to the community for special events, meetings, celebratory occasions, and a thoughtfully designed home away from home,' said Ben Joseph, the hotel's general manager, in a statement. Marriott — like its competitors Hilton and Hyatt Hotels — is expanding its lifestyle portfolio. That expansion includes its $355 million acquisition of CitizenM, which was finalized this week. Philadelphia-based HHM Hotels created its luxury and lifestyle division in 2023. The firm announced plans to restructure its leadership team to boost 'scalable growth' earlier this month. Sign in to access your portfolio
