blog Archives - Encore Connect

Special Events

Developer — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:58:54 +0000

Flying can be stressful, especially if you are traveling to and from your destination within the day for an important meeting.

The post Special Events appeared first on Encore Connect.

Cruise Ship

Developer — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:57:50 +0000

Flying can be stressful, especially if you are traveling to and from your destination within the day for an important meeting.

The post Cruise Ship appeared first on Encore Connect.

Corporate Business

Developer — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:56:08 +0000

Flying can be stressful, especially if you are traveling to and from your destination within the day for an important meeting.

The post Corporate Business appeared first on Encore Connect.

Sydney Airport

Developer — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:53:42 +0000

Flying can be stressful, especially if you are traveling to and from your destination within the day for an important meeting.

The post Sydney Airport appeared first on Encore Connect.

Chauffeurs, not drivers

Developer — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 10:59:22 +0000

Chauffeurs, not drivers

Driving is just driving, right? A driver simply pilots a vehicle from point A to point B. How hard can it be? Isn’t the difference between a driver and a chauffeur just that a chauffeur wears a fancy suit?

Nothing could be further from reality.

The difference between a driver and a chauffeur is the same as the difference between a Michelin star chef, and a cook in a fast food joint. They’re both cooking food. But one is a highly trained professional working at the highest level for a discerning, premium audience. The other is … not.

Like a professional chef, chauffeurs go through a rigorous training process before they spend a moment behind the wheel, with a paying customer in the car.

A chauffeur needs to be an experienced driver, who’s great at what they do and loves doing it – that’s a given. But a great chauffeur also needs to be an excellent time manager, an exceptional map reader, a problem solver, perfectly personally presented at all times and a psychologist. A great chauffeur will innately know if the person in their car would like a friendly chat, or needs to be left alone to make calls or simply be lost in their own thoughts.

“At Encore, we only employ exceptional people to drive our cars. We understand our chauffeurs are the public face of our business, we are judged on their performance, so it’s critical they’re brilliant at what they do,” says Encore owner, Ben Hussary.

“Our stringent process starts with an interview. The starting point is ensuring a new driver is a people person, is somebody who likes communicating, is good at it and will make a client feel instantly relaxed and comfortable in the car.”

Encore drivers then go through an extensive orientation course accompanied by an experienced Encore professional. They spend days visiting major hotels, ports and airports, familiarising themselves with any local issues that could interfere with seamless service. By the time they’ve done their orientation, they know where to park, how long it takes to get there and any other little quirk they need to understand to get the job done.

“We make sure our drivers understand the levels of professionalism and presentation we require,” says Ben. “We’re careful to spend time training our drivers so that by the time they hit the road, they’re a perfectly professional chauffeur.

“Our tagline is ‘Experience Excellence’ so it’s up to our drivers to be excellent so our customers always have an unbeatable experience.”

“One of the great things about driving for Encore is we are allocated a car for a long period of time and that car becomes our responsibility, our office. We’re responsible for that car being in perfect condition, mechanically and aesthetically, at all times. Encore provides our fuel and an on-demand detailing service so our car is always as-new, all the time,” says Encore driver, Phil. “It definitely becomes a point of pride.”

“Another thing that makes the Encore experience different for drivers, and therefore customers, if anything does go wrong, like a flat tyre, or a road closure, the first thing we do is call head office. We know we’re supported at every moment and if there’s a problem our entire network will leap into action to find a solution. We’re never on our own.”

Before taking their car out for the day, an Encore driver always completes a pre-trip safety inspection. Is the car up to Encore standards? Is it perfectly clean? Any leaks or windscreen cracks? Encore drivers send a portfolio of photographs to head office every time they take the car out to maintain the most rigorous standards of safety and presentation.

No matter what’s happening, an Encore chauffeur never gets lost. While they’re expert at using their GPS they are also experienced navigators. It’s the chauffeur’s job to worry about how best to get there, and how long it will take, never the customer’s.

A great chauffeur knows he or she is actually in the business of hospitality, making sure their customers are happy, comfortable and safe at all times. That’s the core of the excellent Encore experience.

Encore connect’s holds its chauffeurs in high esteem, for good reason. Our chauffeurs represent the company and they’re the best in the business. We want our customers to book us again and again, because they have experienced excellence and don’t want to go back to anything else.

Want to experience the difference between a chauffeur and a driver yourself? We’re here to help.

The post Chauffeurs, not drivers appeared first on Encore Connect.

Business People Don’t Hire Chauffeurs for Fun: They Need It

Developer — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 10:59:40 +0000

Driving is a relaxing activity. It should be.

But, for those who simply have too much on their plates, a road stroll can become a road rage somewhere along the way.

In particular, business people or the elites are the ones who often go for chauffeur services. While it’s true that its main benefit is that it provides extra leisure time in the back, there’s much more to this story than meets the eye.

From what our clients tell us, many people find driving troublesome, especially when they’re focusing. So, for those who are preparing for a meeting, a business proposal, or any important event, having someone take over the wheels is a great way to de-stress.

Below are the reasons business people hire chauffeurs other than for fun:

It’s a Social Status

The post Business People Don’t Hire Chauffeurs for Fun: They Need It appeared first on Encore Connect.

Westfields

Developer — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 16:35:24 +0000

Encore Connects Partners with Westfield Australia for VIP Shopping Experiences

Traffic, parking, and carrying heavy bags can turn shopping into a chore. But what if shopping could be an unforgettable, luxurious experience? Encore Connects is proud to announce a new partnership with Westfield Australia, offering two exciting options to elevate your shopping experience:

But, it doesn’t have to be that way anymore.

Let’s make shopping enjoyable again. Here at Encore Connects, we are partnering with Westfield’s Australia’s to provide you with an unforgettable, VIP experience every time you venture to the mall. We’ll make sure you get to Westfield in comfort and style! This new experience offers two options:

The Exclusive VIP Experience

As a VIP shopper at Westfield’s Australia, leave your worries at home. This experience includes a chauffeured ride from your hotel provided by our experienced and professional fleet of cars and limousines. From the comfort of our vehicles, you can enjoy a stress free ride. You will also receive a completely personalised styling session with one of Australia’s top fashion stylists.

Instead of searching for items on your own, the Westfield’s team will guide you and your guests on a private tour of Westfield’s Australia’s best shops and top brands. And after all of this, you can celebrate your purchases by indulging in a decadent high tea that includes champagne! Finally, you can forget about having to carry all of your purchases, as they will be delivered straight to your hotel/address.

The Westfield’s Australia Privilege Card

As a Privilege Card holder, you’ll enjoy access to an onsite concierge team. They will provide services such as personal flight check-in, Australia travel guides and tourist information, domestic and international parcel delivery, and car service. In addition to all of these services, cardholders get special offers and exclusive discounts on Westfield’s top luxury brands.

We are extremely excited about this new partnership and we look forward to working closely with Westfield Australia to ensure that every one of our VIP customers has a unique, extravagant, enjoyable and memorable day.

The post Westfields appeared first on Encore Connect.

Beyonce Tour

Developer — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 16:31:50 +0000

Beyoncé’s Mrs. Carter World Tour Hits Australia!

With ten Grammys under her belt, pop sensation Beyoncé Knowles’ Mrs. Carter World Tour has solidified her status as one of the greatest modern day performers in existence.

The Australian leg is underway, and Australia fans are in for a treat! This critically acclaimed tour is a cutting-edge, high-production show with Beyoncé’s signature fierce performance style and impeccable choreography. She adds her personal touch to each show, raising the bar with her energy and effortless style. Get ready to be on your feet!

The setlist is a perfect blend of chart-topping hits like “Crazy in Love” and “Survivor” alongside highlights from her latest album. Beyoncé dazzles audiences with her powerful vocals and intense dancing, seamlessly shifting between pop anthems and vulnerable ballads.

Adding to the spectacle, Beyoncé dons regal outfits reminiscent of historical icons. Renowned designers like Riccardo Tisci from Givenchy have meticulously crafted these couture costumes, described by critics as “mesmerizing” and “provocative.”

Catch the superstar in one of the most anticipated concert events of the year, that has earned multitudes of rave reviews from fans to critics. The Times has lauded the performance as “two hours of uplifting escapism” and the New York Times called the show “breathtaking”.

Beyoncé is set to play at Allphones Arena in Australia on the 2 & 3 November with Australian artist Iggy Azalea as the supporting act.

Catch her stunning performance with last minute tickets available via Ticketek and book your Encore transfer to top off an amazing experience with the Queen of Pop.

The post Beyonce Tour appeared first on Encore Connect.

Corporate Dining

Developer — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 16:27:26 +0000

Top Australia CBD Spots for Your Next Business Lunch

Impress clients or recharge over a delicious meal at these exceptional Australia CBD restaurants. Experience exquisite cuisine and attentive service at your next business lunch.

If you need help getting there, be sure to check out Encore’s services. Our staff will take the fuss out of finding transport and get you there and back smoothly so you don’t miss a beat out of your work day.

Verde Restaurant

Cuisine: Italian

Address: 115 Riley St Sydney NSW 2010

Opening Hours:

Lunch: Mon to Fri Noon – 3pm
Dinner: Mon to Sat 6pm – 10:30pm

With traditional Italian dishes, fine wine and great service Verde is the perfect place for the business diner and culinary crusader. Its private dining area and free wifi is ideal for conferences and features a tastefully designed interior to provide a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy your meal in.

Tetsuya’s

Cuisine: Japanese, Japanese French Fusion

Address: 529 Kent Street Sydney NSW 2000

Opening Hours:

Lunch: Saturday from 12 noon
Dinner: Tuesday to Friday from 6.00pm

Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city to a peaceful Japanese haven. Located in the heart of Australia, Tetsuya’s features a traditional Japanese garden, 3 main dining areas, 5 private rooms that cater for groups between 10 to 60 people and a bar for pre meal drinks. Its 10 course Japanese-French fusion degustation menu of seafood, quail and beef can only be described as a truly amazing culinary experience. With the incredible attention to detail and presentation, each dish arrives at your table as a piece of art. The staff are both professional and friendly and the service is exceptional.

The Glass Brasserie

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Address: 488 George Street Sydney NSW 2000

Opening Hours:

Breakfast: Mon to Fri 6am – 10am
Lunch: Mon to Fri Noon – 3pm
Dinner: Mon to Sun 6pm – 10pm

The Glass Brasserie’s friendly and attentive staff serve up an excellent and extensive food and wine selection. It offers a 7 course degustation menu with matching wine or an elegant A La Carte menu featuring signature dishes such as the organic egg omelette of blue swimmer crab meat and enoki mushroom & herb salad served with a miso mustard broth. The crescent shaped seating plan is ideal for business meetings with multiple clients and their private dining area offers a captivating view of the Queen Victoria Building.

Guillaume at Bennelong

Cuisine: French

Address:Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point Sydney, NSW 2000

Opening Hours:

Lunch: Thu to Fri Noon – 3pm
Dinner: Mon to Sat 5:30pm – 11pm

Located on the southern side of the iconic Sydney Opera House, Guillaume at Bebbelong offers a variety of seating choices to suit your needs. Whether it is intimate booth seating or a private dining room for events, it is a pleasure to bask in the ambience of this remarkable location.

Each dish whether it’s from the 8 course degustation menu or the A La Carte menu, is crafted with impeccable attention to detail. The staff there endeavour to bring you a memorable dining experience with excellent knowledge of wines to accompany your meal.

The post Corporate Dining appeared first on Encore Connect.

Hunter Valley

Developer — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 16:11:07 +0000

Unwind and savor the exquisite wines of the Hunter Valley, a world-renowned wine region just two hours from Australia. Immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery, indulge in delicious tastings, and discover hidden gems with Encore Connects’ private tours. Let them handle the driving while you explore at your own pace and create unforgettable memories.

Audrey Wilkinson

With incredible 360 degree views of the Hunter’s hillsides and groves, Audrey Wilkinson’s Winery is a must-visit vineyard for all tourists. One of the oldest wineries in the Hunter, Audrey Wilkinson has been consistently rated as a 5-star winery known for its founder’s mantra of “it’s all about the taste”. The winery’s signature vintage is their crisp and refreshing Rosé as well as their premium quality reserve Shiraz.

Audrey Wilkinson, DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin 2320 audreywilkinson.com.au

Brokenwood

Visit Brokenwood for its famous Graveyard Shiraz, a complex, and full-bodied wine that is characteristic of the exquisite shiraz wines from this region. Brokenwood has an extensive collection of quality wines for you to try and also offers a behind-the-scenes tour for those who want to learn more about their production processes.

Brokenwood, 401-427 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin 2320 www.brokenwood.com.au

David Hook

Another essential stop, David Hook has earned rave reviews from top sommeliers and restaurateurs due to its consistently top-notch quality wines. Hidden away in a shady and charming courtyard at Peppers Creek, David Hook’s rustic décor is not unlike a winery typical of regional France. Savour the popular Sauvignon Blanc with its fresh and fruity finish and for reds, try Barbera which is exceptionally balanced and has a soft finish.

David Hook, Cnr Broke and Ekerts roads, Pokolbin 2320 davidhookwines.com.au

Meerea Park

Meerea Park is owned by brothers Rhys and Garth Eather, who continue their family tradition of wine producing with an innovative twist. Calling themselves ‘terroirists’, the brothers have snapped up many awards for their wines, each featuring quirky names such as ‘Hell Hole’ and ‘XYZ’. Meerea Park’s flagship wine is an earthy shiraz named after their grandfather Alexander Munro.

Meerea Park, 2198 Broke Rd, Pokolbin 2320 meereapark.com.au

Scarborough

The family-run Scarborough is well known for their hospitality and outstanding White and Yellow Label Chardonnay. Scarborough also produces Black Label Shiraz, a traditional red with smooth and earthy flavours that ages particularly well in the cellar. Visitors are able to round off their Hunter Valley trip by sampling the wines with a serving of bread and cheese and tap into the expertise of Scarborough’s wine makers who are always up for a chat.

Scarborough, 179 Gillards Rd, Pokolbin 2320 scarboroughwine.com.au

The post Hunter Valley appeared first on Encore Connect.

International Fleet Review

Developer — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 15:56:45 +0000

With the International Fleet Review in full swing, today will be the last day for visitors to take the opportunity to visit the open warships and tall ships that are docked in Australia Harbour as part of the celebration of the centenary of the Royal Australian Navy’s arrival on 4 October 2013. Over the past few days Australia has already witnessed many spectacular naval displays including the tall ships parade, ceremonial fleet review, naval gun salutes, fireworks, and military band concert but there is more yet to come.

Over the past few days, Australia has witnessed a whirlwind of naval displays: the tall ship parade, the ceremonial fleet review, booming gun salutes, dazzling fireworks, and stirring military band concerts. But there’s still more to come!

Catch the Remaining Events:

Monday 7 October

Warships are open from 8 am-6 pm at Fleet Base East, Garden Island and Barangaroo
Tall ships are open from 9.30 am-5 pm at Cockle Bay/Darling Harbour

Tuesday 8 October

Tall ships day sails 9.30 am-5 pm at Australia Harbour. Visit www.tallshipfestival2013.com to book corporate packages and individual tickets for lunch and dinner cruises aboard the Tall ships.
30pm-2 pm Navy Memorial Service at the Cenotaph, Martin Place
30pm-2 pm HMAS Penguin exercises its Freedom to Entry to Mosman at Military Rd, Mosman
1 pm-2.30 pm HMAS Parramatta exercises its Freedom to Entry at Church St, Parramatta

Wednesday 9 October

30pm-2 pm Combined Navies Parade takes place in Australia’s CBD

Thursday 10 October

11 am-2 pm Tall ships depart for Auckland from Australia Harbour
3 pm-5.30 pm Sailing Regatta with RAN Sailing Association takes place at Australia Harbour

Friday 11 October

From 7.30 am Warships depart from Australia Harbour for Exercise Triton Centenary 13 – Part 2.

The post International Fleet Review appeared first on Encore Connect.

Keep the Spring Races going

Developer — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 15:43:39 +0000

Experience Country Racing Elegance at Australia’s Fernhill Estate Picnic Race Day

Extend the spring racing season in style! Don’t miss Australia’s first and only country race day, held at the historic Fernhill Estate. Just an hour from the CBD, this glamorous event offers a unique blend of exhilarating horse racing, live music, gourmet food, and elegant fashion, all set against a backdrop of stunning 1850-acre grounds.

A Day of Sophistication and Fun

Picture yourself sipping champagne or indulging in stylish cocktails and canapés in private lounges. Or, soak up the sunshine and the vibrant atmosphere on Fernhill’s sprawling picnic lawns. Witness the thrill of live horse racing, including the prestigious $25,000 Carlton Mid Cup as part of a six-race program.

Aside from the main attraction of the Carlton Mid Cup, there will also be a live broadcast of the final races of the Melbourne cup as well as full bookmaker facilities for enthusiasts. Fernhill Race Day is also a very family-friendly event with plenty of entertainment for the kids and an alcohol-free picnic zone. Activities for children include horse drawn cart rides, a jumping castle, petting farm, pony rides and games.

Fernhill Race Day offers a sophisticated selection of the finest international and local cuisines which include gourmet burgers and steak sandwiches from the Aussie Grill, Brazilian BBQ and Mexican. Head to the Carlton Mid Beer Garden to sample the range of refreshing beers or finish off lunch with a quality coffee and gelato. With so many options to choose from, Race Day at Fernhill is a culinary delight for everyone.

For those who are passionate about races fashion, the best dressed ladies and gentlemen will be eligible to receive a share of $2,000 worth of prizes. The experts will assess participants’ individual style and creativity in showcasing country races attire in the Fernhill Fashion Spotting Competition as well as their understanding of current trends.

Fernhill Estate Picnic Race Day starts at 10am on Saturday 9 September and finishes at 9pm.

The first race will begin at 1pm.

Visit the Fernhill website Fernhill site to book your tickets!

The post Keep the Spring Races going appeared first on Encore Connect.

Rihanna Diamonds World Tour

Developer — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 14:13:47 +0000

With her chart topping single Diamonds, pop star Rihanna’s Diamonds World Tour is her fifth concert tour and was launched to support her 7th studio album Unapologetic (2012). The entertainment veteran is the recipient of six Grammy Awards® and seven Billboard Music Awards and is the current record holder for being the top selling digital artist of all time.

Expect to see Rihanna don top notch outfits created by designers from Givenchy, Christian Dior and Christian Louboutin as she performs chart toppers such as Umbrella, Don’t Stop the Music, Only Girl (In the World) and Take a Bow. The Diamonds World Tour has been successful world-wide, selling out in many locations across the globe as Rihanna showcases her lush performance style and sassy attitude, wowing fans and critics alike.

Add to your VIP experience, by booking a fuss-free transfer with Encore to see this sell-out show. Don’t miss a beat and get there in style.

The post Rihanna Diamonds World Tour appeared first on Encore Connect.