Soft brands in favour
An Urban Deluxe Queen room at The Beachcomber Ascend Hotel Collection in Toukley, NSW.

Two new properties in the northern parts of both New South Wales and Queensland have been admitted to the Ascend Hotel portfolio, part of the Choice Hotels Asia-Pac brand portfolio.

The new additions begin with the Beachcomber Ascend Hotel Collection, located in the Central Coast suburb of Toukley. Inspired by the New York vacation hotspot of The Hamptons, the resort-style property features studio rooms and apartments, while guest facilities include a poolside cocktail lounge, sports bar and fine dining restaurant.

Beachcomber is the third property owned by hospitality group, Oscars, to join the Choice Hotels network, adding to Quality Hotel Pioneer Sands and Comfort Inn Towradgi Beach, both located in Wollongong.

The Benson Ascend Hotel Collection in Cairns

The second new addition is The Benson, a boutique style accommodation offering in Cairns. Currently closed for a multimillion dollar renovation, the hotel will be reopening in June with its new branding, from which it will be known as The Benson Ascend Hotel Collection. The property is currently in the final stages of installing a new swimming pool and restaurant facilities designed to appeal to both locals and corporate visitors.

Choice Hotels Asia-Pac CEO, Trent Fraser, welcomed both properties to the network, with the new additions swelling the network to 15.

Choice Hotels Asia-Pac CEO Trent Fraser

“Our Ascend brand has received increased levels of interest in the wake of the pandemic from owners of independent properties, looking to leverage reach through our extensive distribution network, while still maintaining their property’s individual identity,” Fraser said.

“I’m delighted to welcome these two new hotels to our network, especially during a time when we’re firmly focused on and investing in our franchisee’s recovery.”