Hotel News Professional and Inclusive Hospitality Group

Search result...

Saudi Tourism Authority launches new campaign

The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has launched ‘Journeys in Arabia,’ an exclusive online event curated especially for travel trade partners around the globe. Saudi Arabia is a relatively new destination on the global stage. As the authentic home of Arabia, Saudi offers unique, diverse and unparalleled experiences, a land of natural assets, rich culture and heritage and adventure. The virtual engagement series, taking place across six markets around the world, is a first-of-its-kind initiative for STA, a source of inspiration and excitement, designed to inform partners about the diverse products and experiences that Arabia offers. The Middle East Journeys in Arabia webinar brought together local partners, for an opportunity to hear from thought leaders and experts in the tourism industry. The session provided insights into the current state of travel and the opportunities and challenges in addressing the growing demand and interest in Saudi as a new destination. Panellists discussed the huge shift in domestic travel and potential of the regional audience as an untapped segment, highlighting infrastructure, connectivity and capacity as the three fundamentals in further developing the local tourism ecosystem. Giga projects including Neom were referenced as key in driving tourism to Saudi in the future, while investment into activities and experiences was also identified as critical components in elevating Saudi’s appeal among key stakeholders and potential partners. Following up on the success of the webinar, STA will also be hosting an immersive virtual roadshow for the Middle East on March 8th-9th, partnering with the most relevant destination, experience and hospitality brands in Saudi to showcase the best of what the Kingdom has to offer.

Create: Feb 17, 2021 Edit: Feb 17, 2021 International News

Charlestowne Hotels Implements ProfitSword and Event Temple Integration to Gain Real-Time Insight Into Business and Group Sales Performance

ProfitSword, a premier developer of hospitality-related business intelligence and data integration software, has announced the implementation of its performance forecasting technology alongside Event Temple’s advanced group and event sales management software at Charlestowne Hotels. A leading hospitality management company offering expertise in hotel operations and revenue optimization, Charlestowne Hotels can now provide each property and stakeholder with the real-time business intelligence they need to measure group-related sales performance and to swiftly adapt to upcoming revenue growth opportunities. “Hotels must be able to quickly identify any areas where additional profits or operational efficiencies can be obtained, and this is especially true during the current market environment where business stability and eventual recovery can hinge on the ability to acquire and preserve more revenue streams,” said Johnathan Capps, Vice President of Revenue at Charlestowne Hotels. “Both ProfitSword and Event Temple solutions work seamlessly together to achieve this goal. Each of our properties along with our organization as a whole are now able to instantly determine what current performance looks like, what future business outlook is expected and what services or resources need to be prioritized in order to achieve greater profitability, market competitiveness and guest satisfaction.” Designed to streamline access to performance data from a single and always accurate source, the ProfitSword and Event Temple integration allows Charlestowne Hotels to automatically combine valuable group and event related analytics within the ProfitSword user interface. This ensures the hassle-free ability to review KPIs and other financial or operational data the moment it is needed and with the ability to review results by department, property, hotel brand or for the company’s entire portfolio. “Managing a hotel business successfully requires the ability to disseminate actionable data across an organization before the opportunity to respond passes, and we are proud to see that our partnership with Event Temple has provided Charlestowne Hotels with the specific tools it needs to make the most out of its group and event sales efforts,” said Paul Bennie, Director of Business Development at ProfitSword. “With the integration in place, we look forward to seeing Charlestowne Hotels continue to expand its market growth with the advantage of maximum forecasting and budgeting efficiency along with enhanced fiscal accountability and communication.” Group and event related performance analytics that Charlestowne Hotels can measure include weddings, conferences and business meetings without first requiring hours of compiling and verifying the accuracy of information. The company, at its locations, can further analyze group and event sales revenue on a year-over-year basis to identify any shifts in traditional performance norms. Another benefit of the integration is the ability to monitor the group sales productivity of individual employees. This allows hoteliers to ensure that sales goals continue to be met while identifying employees that may require additional training. “With the speed and sheer mass of data that a hotel can generate on a daily basis, manual processes such as the use of spreadsheets are not only inefficient but are susceptible to human error which can lead to substantial revenue loss,” said Bob Graham, CEO at Event Temple. “We are honored to work alongside ProfitSword in ensuring that Charlestowne Hotels can remain fully up-to-date on the effectiveness of their group sale strategies, and look forward to seeing the company leverage access to such analytics to drive up revenues and ensure ongoing organizational stability and growth.”

Create: Feb 17, 2021 Edit: Feb 17, 2021 International News

Hotel Equities Opens Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Fort Myers, Florida

Today, Hotel Equities (“HE”) announced the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fort Myers Airport is officially open. The property’s close proximity to Southwest Florida International Airport will make it a first choice for travelers visiting the region. The hotel is owned by Shivam Soham, LLC. Hotel Equities manages the property. “We are proud to officially open our doors to guests visiting southwest Florida,” said HE’s VP of Operations, Keith Hensley. “With a phenomenal General Manager leading the team, I have complete confidence that our hotel will quickly become a leader in the market. Carol Drummond serves as the hotel’s general manager alongside Lucie Wirgin as director of sales. “Opening this property has truly been a labor of love and I’ve cherished my role working alongside a great team,” said Drummond. “Lucie and I are thrilled to have already built many great relationships in the community and we look forward to providing a one-of-a-kind experience for guests.” The hotel’s design offers a fresh, energetic atmosphere and includes amenities to fit the needs of all travelers. Communal areas feature an open, pod-style desk area and flexible seating including community tables with built-in wired and wireless charging stations. The fully equipped guest rooms offer a variety of configurations and additional amenities include a swimming pool, board room, fitness center, and guests can enjoy a hot breakfast during their stay. The thoughtful design incorporates safety and cleanliness measures with reduced contact at check-in, in addition to touchless transactions, sanitizing stations and regular deep-cleaning of high-touch surfaces and high-traffic areas. The hotel’s location is just minutes from JetBlue Park, the Boston Red Sox spring training facility and CenturyLink Sports Complex, the Minnesota Twins spring training facility. With an 8-minute drive from Southwest Florida International Airport and just 20 minutes to the famed Fort Myers beaches, the hotel is ideally situated for both business and leisure travelers. Also in close proximity is Rockstar Harley Davidson, Skyplex, Plantation Golf & Country Club and The Club at Renaissance.

Create: Feb 17, 2021 Edit: Feb 17, 2021 International News

IHG Hotels & Resorts Reveals Guests’ Growing Passion to Travel Better

People are more mindful than ever about travelling consciously following the Covid-19 pandemic, reveals a new global survey by IHG:registered: Hotels & Resorts. The research is commissioned as part of IHG’s launch of ‘Journey to Tomorrow’: a 10-year action plan comprising a series of far-reaching new commitments to make a positive difference and help shape the future of responsible travel. 60 per cent of the 9,000 adults surveyed across the US, UK, Germany, Greater China, the UAE and Australia agree that they want to be more environmentally and socially conscious on their travels. This is led by 69 per cent of younger travellers (aged 18 to 24) compared to just 48 per cent of 55s and over. It appears travellers not only intend to do more for the planet and communities around them, they are willing to pay for it too. The research found that consumers will spend an average of 31 per cent more on accommodation they know operates responsibly – with 51 per cent happy to fork out more than 20 per cent extra a night. Community first: Guests connecting with purposeWith the world travelling more locally – or not at all – right now, it seems the pandemic has made consumers more mindful about preserving and connecting with the communities around them. More than half of respondents across the globe (57 per cent) say they care more about doing their bit for local communities and the planet while travelling, now than they did 10 years ago. In fact, 46 per cent of people say they are more likely to be mindful about avoiding tourist activities that have a negative impact on the local environment and communities since the global pandemic. 86 per cent of people say it is important to get to know the local community when visiting somewhere new, with two thirds doing this by supporting local eateries (67 per cent), followed by shopping locally (64 per cent), speaking with the locals (61 per cent), and getting involved with local tours (48 per cent). A further 3 in 10 choose to stay with travel companies that offer local community programmes. As for activities such as volunteering and restoration projects, young travellers aged 18-24 are nearly three times as likely to get involved when visiting another country, compared to those 55 and over. Travelling better for a sustainable futureThe appetite for better, greener travel is ripe. An incredible 82 per cent of adults around the world say they are committed to taking their everyday sustainable habits with them when they travel, with using the correct waste and recycling disposal for different items taking the top spot as the number one habit. And it seems sustainability doesn’t need to take a backseat on holidays. Hotels are a welcome spot to do better: the two most popular habits when travelling include re-using towels and walking short distances to explore the local neighbourhood. And, when asked what people would avoid so they could be a more responsible traveller, 47 per cent of respondents said they would avoid leaving the air conditioning on when they leave the room.Our Journey to Tomorrow Keith Barr, CEO, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “As we look to the future, the global response to Covid-19 reminded us what can be achieved when we come together and work towards the greater good. This has made us all more conscious than ever about caring for people, communities and planet. Journey to Tomorrow embodies IHG’s strengthened commitment to make sure we do what’s right, not just what’s needed, and we are determined to contribute towards positive social and economic change, to stand up for key issues such as diversity, equity and inclusion, and human rights, and to make more responsible environmental choices. “A great guest experience at our hotels is inextricably linked to operating thoughtfully and growing sustainably. So, while travel may have been temporarily paused for many, we want the next stage of our journey to be successful in every sense of the word.” The ambitions and commitments are firmly rooted in an understanding of what is most important to colleagues, guests and partners across the world when it comes to doing business in the right way, as well as how IHG can play its part in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals in this important 10 years of action. For decades, IHG has been championing its purpose of True Hospitality, from providing skills and education to supporting young people, and taking action for environmental change, to partnering with experts globally on urgent causes such as humanitarian and disaster relief efforts. Commenting on IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow, Laurie Lee, Chief Executive Officer, CARE International UK said: “For the past decade, IHG Hotels & Resorts has demonstrated its commitment to responsible travel by working with CARE International UK to respond to emergencies around the world with a special focus on providing safe shelter. IHG’s support of CARE has remained firm despite the unprecedented challenges facing the travel industry – and the communities we serve – as a result of the pandemic. In the past year alone, CARE and IHG provided essential Covid-19 prevention resources to almost 5,000 people in the Bogor district of Indonesia, a region severely affected by floods and subsequent Covid-19 outbreaks. “Furthermore, with IHG’s support, CARE helped nearly 20,000 people following Vanuatu’s devastating cyclone by providing emergency materials as well as the training and tools to rebuild homes. These life-saving humanitarian efforts are critical to helping communities respond to, and recover from, crises wherever they happen, and we look forward to continuing the next decade of action with IHG.” With a family of 16 brands and almost 6,000 hotels and resorts at the heart of local communities around the globe, IHG is here when travellers are ready. IHG recognises the power of collaboration and will join forces with all who stay, work and partner with them to reduce carbon emissions in line with climate science, eliminate single-use items or move to reusable/recyclable alternatives, reduce food waste, and collaborate locally to tackle water sustainability in high-risk areas.

Create: Feb 17, 2021 Edit: Feb 17, 2021 International News

Iran, Turkey to consider passport-free travels

A joint technical committee for tourism cooperation between Iran and Turkey has recently formulated a plan which reportedly could pave the way for bilateral passport-free travels. The proposal is to be discussed in detail by the tourism authorities of the two countries, ISNA reported on Monday. Turkey was among the top ten countries with the most arrivals in Iran during the [Iranian calendar] year 1398 [Mar. 2019 – Mar. 2020], according to data compiled by Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts. Some Iranian travel experts emphasize the need to attain a balance in tourist flow rates between the two nations, saying the Islamic Republic should reach a balance with Turkey in the movement of tourist flow. Last year, Iranian travel agencies introduced a plan to offer stimulus packages and hold familiarization tours for Turkish agencies, tour operators, journalists, and influencers in a bid to attract more travelers from the neighboring country. “Iran will be organizing familiarization tours for about 100 Turkish tourism agencies after the [complete] reopening of joint borders and resuming [mutual] tourist relations,” according to Mehdi Rezaei, the secretary of the Turkey consortium at the Association of Iranian Travel Agents. “Fam tours had been planned for Turkish [travel] agencies and media for a period before the virus pandemic. Unfortunately, at the outset of the outbreak, the tours were postponed to another time when mutual travels are resumed.” “We must go to the heart of Turkey and introduce our country to them. In Iran, there are places that Turks wish to visit, such as the shrines in Neyshabour and Kashan. Many Turks are familiar with Iranian literature and poets, and Hafez’s poems are etched in the memory of many of them. We must develop these capacities.” The spread of the novel coronavirus has plunged the travel and tourism industry and economy in the global scene over the past couple of months as passenger traffic on airlines and hotel occupancy rates have fallen off a cliff compared to the same periods in previous years.

Create: Feb 17, 2021 Edit: Feb 17, 2021 Regional News

IHG Opens Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpur in India

IHG:registered: Hotels & Resorts one of the world’s leading hotel companies, opens door to the newest hotel in the tricity – Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpur in association with ABC Sites Pvt Ltd. Featuring 131 keys with scenic city views, the hotel is located on Chandigarh- Ambala highway connecting the city of Chandigarh to all famous landmarks and attractions in the Northern belt. Distanced just 20 minutes away from the Chandigarh International Airport and 25 minutes from the Chandigarh Railway Station, the hotel is an ideal destination for leisure and business travellers alike. Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpur opens to a capacious lobby area and appoints modern rooms, finished with technological additions and boasts of the largest gym in the Chandigarh city, spread across incredible area of 10,000 sq ft. Coupled with a dedicated team of experts and hospitable staff members, the hotel also offers two distinctive dining options; an All Day Dining Restaurant – Viva that brings together Indian, Italian and Asian cuisine and the Lounge Bar, overlooking the city, serving as the perfect spot for the guests to unwind and relax. Besides, the new hotel provides an expansive indoor and outdoor space for corporate and social gatherings comprising of an impressive 8340 sq. ft. poolside terrace and 26000 sq. ft. of banqueting space. The incomparable banqueting space with 7200 sq. ft. of pillar-less grand ballroom and 4440 sq. ft. of pre-function area and rooftop pool terrace on the 14th floor that gives a 360-degree view of the city, makes the newly opened hotel a perfect venue for all kind of celebrations and events. Commenting on the inauguration of the new hotel, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, South West Asia adds: “We are delighted to open our second hotel in Chandigarh under our globally renowned brand Holiday Inn, as the tri-City area is increasingly gaining traction, both as a commercial hub and tourist destination. India has been a domestic focused market for IHG and the addition of Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpur to our brand portfolio will cater to the demand for quality accommodation and MICE requirements in the city.” Mr. NK Sharma – Director, ABC Sites Pvt Ltd adds,: “It has been a pleasure to associate with IHG Hotels & resorts, a reputed and trusted hospitality brand for the opening of Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpaur. We are pleased to inaugurate this new hotel and looking forward to welcoming guests. The brand Holiday Inn, holds a strong name in the country and is a great fit for a market like Chandigarh. Benefitting from its strategic location and contemporary design, we are certain the new addition to the portfolio will soon emerge as a popular choice amongst the travellers entering the city.” Holiday Inn Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpaur and IHG Way of CleanAs part of the IHG family, Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpaur will comply with IHG’s Way of Clean industry-leading standards, including the new IHG Clean Promise. IHG’s global Clean Promise was announced in May as part of an overhaul of IHG Way of Clean to introduce heightened cleanliness standards to protect guests in the wake of COVID. Using new, science-led protocols and service measures, partnering with industry leading experts Cleveland Clinic, Ecolab and Diversey, and launching a global IHG Clean Promise, these strengthened measures will give guests greater confidence and hotel teams the protection needed. Holiday Inn Chandigarh Zirakpaur is the latest addition to one of the world’s largest hotel companies, where guests can earn and redeem exclusive member benefits at over 5,900 hotels and major airlines globally through the IHG Rewards.

Create: Feb 13, 2021 Edit: Feb 13, 2021 International News

Hyatt Place Fort Worth/TCU Celebrates Official Opening in Texas

Hyatt Place Fort Worth/TCU announced today its official opening. The six story, 150-room hotel is the first and only hotel to be located right next to the campus of Texas Christian University (TCU). Featuring the Hyatt Place brand’s signature offerings, the new hotel provides 3,500 square feet of meeting and event space and Lot 12, an expansive rooftop bar overlooking the TCU campus, along with two Top Golf Swing Suites. Hyatt Place Fort Worth/TCU has been designed to serve as a destination for guests to refresh, recharge, and reconnect while enjoying the energy and atmosphere of the TCU campus. “Fort Worth is a world-class city and key business and leisure destination. Hyatt Place Fort Worth/TCU serves as a wonderful new option for business and leisure travelers visiting the heart of the city’s University and Cultural district,” said General Manager Regina Rhodes. Hyatt Place Fort Worth/TCU is conveniently located just minutes from the Fort Worth Medical District and downtown Fort Worth. In addition to being close to event venues such as the new Dickies Arena and Will Rogers Memorial Center, the hotel offers guests and visitors convenient access to the historic Stockyards as well as restaurants in the exciting 7th Street and Nearby Southside areas. Hyatt Place Fort Worth/TCU will feature: 150 spacious guestrooms with a Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper providing separate spaces to sleep, work, and play.Breakfast Bar featuring hot breakfast items, fresh fruit, steel cut oatmeal, Greek yogurt, and more.The Market serving freshly prepared meals anytime, day or night.The Bar featuring specialty coffees and premium beers, as well as wines and cocktails.Necessities program offering forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for free.Free Wi-Fi throughout hotel and guestrooms.Valet and Self-Parking available.Event Spaces consisting of 3,500 square feet of flexible, high-tech meeting/event space.Fitness Center featuring cardio equipment with LCD touchscreens.Rooftop Bar, Lot 12 featuring both indoor and outdoor seating and two Top Golf Swing Suites. “As a TCU alumnus, I’m beyond thrilled to be opening the first hotel ever to be located within walking distance of my alma mater, TCU,” said John F. Davis III, President of Campus Hotel Venture, the owner of the hotel. “Every college campus needs a hotel like this where sports fans can easily walk to the college stadiums, or parents and students can stay and easily tour the campus. Our new Hyatt Place Fort Worth/ TCU is an incredible asset to the TCU community. With a large ballroom for events, an expansive rooftop sports bar, guestrooms that are among the largest in Ft. Worth, and plenty of self-parking, all located within walking distance of nearly every TCU activity, we expect our hotel to be a popular hub for students, professors, and their family and friends.” Hyatt Place Fort Worth/TCU LEADERSHIP Hyatt Place Fort Worth/TCU will be under the leadership of General Manager, Regina Rhodes and Director of Sales, Georgia Fournier. In her role, Rhodes will be directly responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the hotel, including overseeing the hotel’s 57 associates and ensuring guests encounter the thoughtful service for which the Hyatt Place brand is known. Fournier will be responsible for providing sales service and support to travelers and meeting planners frequenting the Fort Worth area.

Create: Feb 13, 2021 Edit: Feb 13, 2021 International News

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island Debuts Transformation

Since opening in 1991, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island has remained at the forefront of Northeast Florida luxury with warm hospitality, nature-driven experiences and award-winning amenities. In honor of its 30th anniversary this year, the iconic barrier island resort will debut transformation that reflects the destination of unspoiled coastal beauty and Southern charm, an epitome of the classic beach vacation. The renovation includes upgraded rooms and suites, refreshed meeting and event spaces, three new restaurants, and renewed resort experiences. The resort is also celebrating its 30th anniversary, traditionally known as the Pearl Anniversary, celebrated with a gift of pearls. In celebration of this noteworthy year, the resort announces a “Year of the Peal” campaign featuring pearl-themed programming and partnerships. “For three decades, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island has added new amenities and refreshed guest experiences.” said General Manager Greg Cook. “It’s only fitting that on the 30th anniversary, the resort will unveil a new chapter with beautiful, newly-designed rooms and suites that embrace the coastal beauty of our remote barrier island along with three new restaurants led by a talented group of chefs that celebrate the destination’s local, fresh cuisine.”RESORT RENOVATION Expertly designed by Wimberly Interiors, transformed guest room and suite interiors provide a framework to The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island’s surroundings and cater to the needs of the modern traveler. The design draws upon the breathtaking natural surroundings of the low country sea and skies. Horizon ocean views and spectacular sunsets over moody grey-green salt marshes – a jewel-like setting – the landscape will be translated in the space with hue, patterns and textures. References abound from the journey into the property, through to the view across the ocean. The sophisticated palette is grounded in the rich neutral tones of the land and accented with the colors of the sand, sea and lush Spanish Moss and Live Oaks. The resort’s 446 resort guest rooms and suites will undergo a dramatic visual and functional transformation catering to the needs of the modern traveler including Smart TVs, bed side charging stations and newly redesigned living areas provide more space for guests to relax in the newfound comfort of coastal luxury. Seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor spaces, each guest room is equipped with private balconies boasting stunning ocean or coastal views. Guestroom bathrooms have also received a luxe overhaul complete with dual vanities, enlarged showers and suites with free-standing bathtubs. The three specialty suites located on the eighth floor – the Amelia Suite, the Atlantic Suite and The Ritz-Carlton Suite – will debut elevated décor such as bespoke furniture and nature-inspired photography and artwork.CULINARY REFRESH In 2020, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island unveiled Coquina, an al fresco restaurant with a terrace lounge and ocean view bar. Set to a backdrop of ocean breezes, Coquina offers diners access to an innovative, oceanfront restaurant with a culinary presentation focused on seafood and coastal dishes inspired by the island’s Eight Flags heritage. Gorgeously casual, this restaurant delights the senses with dinner served beneath lit palapas overlooking the resort’s dune-lined beaches. Coquina’s menu embraces the dynamic flavors inspired by the island’s time as a Spanish territory including ceviche made from freshly caught fish and shareable tapas. A full bar overlooking the ocean features signature cocktails and flavorful sangrias. Born from the relaxed spirit of days spent on the island’s waterways, the stylish new Tidewater Grill presents guests can instantly familiar, casual atmosphere for lunch, dinner, and drinks. Featuring a menu of American grill classics, coastal favorites, and a celebrated collection of regionally brewed beers, Tidewater Grill is the ideal place to trade stories of a day on the water – the best of times with the best of friends. Inspired by the culinary traditions of the resort’s celebrated restaurants, First Drop invites guests to savor an authentic artisanal beverage experience. Featuring locally roasted coffee, this new counter-service option also offers fresh juices, handcrafted milkshakes and smoothies, as well as carry-away selections and select small bites including breakfast and lunch sandwiches, salads, pastries, candy, and snacks. These new culinary venues will join the resort’s renowned restaurants: Salt, offering AAA Five Diamond dining that showcases innovative, contemporary American cuisine and Coast, highlighting local seafood specialties.

Create: Feb 13, 2021 Edit: Feb 13, 2021 International News

Luxury’s Next Competitor Is Not a Hotel

Every hotel property aspires to be luxury in one way or another, even as the word ‘luxury’ has become a bit overused in the past decade. As such, there are always new entrants testing out concepts and evolving various features, amenities or service offerings, all in an attempt to get one step ahead of the curve. The pandemic has, of course, shifted priorities but the pursuit of luxury still remains as a means of capturing guests’ hearts. Concurrent to this arms race amongst traditional hotels – and now also alternative accommodations – it is important that hospitality brands consider those accommodations not bound by land. Cruise lines are also evolving and diversifying in the wake of COVID-19, particularly as they try to cover as many traveler niches as possible, including several different types of luxury such as what’s addressed herein. As we all look to recover from this world-shaping crisis, hotels must take a more holistic approach in evaluating market forces and their competition. Launching the Seven Seas Splendor This is one event from the antecovidian times that still has significance for hoteliers. Aggressively promoted through social media channels, the christening of the New Regent Seven Seas Splendor was an hour-plus YouTube segment dedicated to the company, its staff and the ship. Watching this unfold, we could not help wondering at the tremendous organization that unfolded to not only construct this vessel, but importantly the efforts required to bring this product into the marketplace. While the coronavirus has cast a big question mark over its long-term success, what’s important to remember here is the larger trend – the expansion of the luxury cruise segment. This being a hotel publication, you may wonder why we are lavishing so much attention on a product launch that is not a hotel property. Fact is, that as hoteliers, there is a great deal of learning that we can glean from this singular event, as well as from the cruise industry’s overall response to the pandemic. If you are managing or owning a luxury hotel or resort, this new ship and others like it will soon become a significant competitor; just think of it as 375 rooms added into your comp set. The Seven Seas Splendor once again raises the bar on ‘accessible luxury’. By accessible, we mean prices that run at roughly $1,500 to $2,000 per night (meals included), which is a sweet spot for the luxury accommodation market segment. Of note, there is an even higher category of accommodations that we cheekily call ‘no-holds-barred-luxury’, such as a $5,000+ per night, multiple-bedroom villa-for-rent somewhere along the Mediterranean. Consider for a moment, a comparison between an eight-day cruise and the same length of stay on a leisure holiday hypothetically in one, two or three different luxury properties. Let’s say your budget is $1,500 per day for a hotel including three meals, alcoholic beverages, gratuities and taxes. These days, that is not really all that extravagant and probably not enough for five-star, land-based accommodations in Europe on an all-inclusive financial cost basis. Yet, that’s roughly the price range for a luxury, small boat tour (1,000pax or less). And remember the cruise makes it significantly easier on the traveler – unpacking only once and coordinating your needs with exemplary service, not to mention that this all-inclusive price may also comprise day excursions, entertainment, airfare and transfers. Three Key Lessons Rest assured that, for the decade ahead, this form of luxury is indeed a competitor to any traditional hotel that you must take into consideration when planning ahead. Here are three quick takeaways you can learn from this particular ship and other newer, luxury cruise liners of its ilk. 1. Don’t reinvent the wheel. The new Seven Seas Splendor is virtually identical in design to its sister ship, the Seven Seas Explorer, that launched some five years earlier (and a ship that Larry has journeyed upon). This made the new ship much more cost effective to design and faster to build. It also means that the staff familiar with one ship are almost effortlessly interchangeable, thereby reducing onboarding costs. From a marketing standpoint, it also means that guests of one ship will be eager to experiment with the new one once coronavirus fears have subsided. 2. Remember your target audience. Study trends in design but steer away from the cutting edge. Unlike many new hotel designs, this ship’s design elements are tasteful yet far from revolutionary. Often hoteliers seek to try ‘something completely new’ in design, perhaps to be provocative from a public relations standpoint. Yet in doing so, they forget that it is the guest that is the ultimate judge and jury. While now taking into account physical distancing measures, you should design appropriately if your core guest demographic is conservative and likely in the age range of 60 to 80 with a high net worth. 3. Lever your past guests from the entire chain to the new destination. You’re only new once, so make a big deal of it. As a past guest of a sister ship, not a week went by without an email bulletin on the progress and routing. We’ve all been quite good at communicating our updated health and safety policies throughout 2020, and that same level of efforts should be given to any new product launches in 2021. Such new property or program announcements are low hanging fruit for loyalty patronage. Wouldn’t a regular guest in one city opt for staying at the same hotel brand in another? Wouldn’t a loyal guest be keen for a return visit if you offer them exclusive or advanced access to a new onsite amenity? As a classic marketing tactic, look to drum up your base before attempting to reach wholly new audiences. Many people are eagerly awaiting the day when they can get their vaccines then start cruising again, and therein lies tremendous learning opportunities for hotels on what products and services travelers really want. To the captain and crew of this new ship – and to the members of your hotel team – we wish you smooth sailing in 2021 and hopefully no rogue waves like what we endured last year.

Create: Feb 11, 2021 Edit: Feb 11, 2021 International News

Grupo Lomas and Karisma Hotels & Resorts to Open Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya in June 2021

Fans of SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and PAW Patrol get ready: Karisma Hotels & Resorts is opening Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya in June 2021. Beginning today, travelers can book accommodations at Mexico’s first Nickelodeon Resort, featuring one of the largest water attractions in Mexico and all ocean-front swim-up suites, accommodating families of five, for the ultimate family beach escape. Now, families can enjoy a premium vacation experience themed to Nickelodeon’s most beloved and imagination-expanding worlds, with something for everyone. All Oceanfront, Swim-up Suites Designed for FamiliesNickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya will feature 280 oceanfront swim-up suites, incorporating family-friendly amenities such as two bathrooms in every suite and plenty of space for a family of five, as well as playful design elements including art pieces pulled from beloved show archives and furnishings inspired by Nickelodeon’s iconic colors and current and past characters, such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer. In addition, the property will feature four rooftop, penthouse-style Signature Suites, including the fan-favorite Pineapple Suite and the first-ever Turtle Lair Suite, dedicated to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. “After the huge success of the Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, we could not be better poised to expand the brand experience with our resort with all oceanfront swim-up suites, along with themed experiences with an extended cast of 20 your favorite Nickelodeon characters,” said Mario Mathieu, Senior Vice President of Business Development, Design and Construction of Karisma Hotels & Resorts. “This property features many firsts such as the new Turtle Lair Suite, even more dedicated entertainment spaces such as SNICK Lounge and Mainstage, and the one-of-a-kind Aqua Nick® with its epic slides, river rides and the teen-friendly Soak Summit, which will be a destination in itself.” Aqua Nick®: Fun in the Water like You’ve Never Seen BeforeAt the epicenter of the resort’s entertainment offerings is Aqua Nick®, a six-acre themed water park featuring 2,000 sq. ft. of slides and more than 1,820 sq. ft of river rides, including a Lazy River and a faster-paced Adventure River, with complimentary and early access offered to guests. Park amenities also include the relaxing Bikini Bottom Beach, a Slime Spot, PAW Patrol Adventure Bay, an interactive water playground, and Soak Summit with 10 spine-tingling single and double-rider slides, including a multi-lane racing format. Because Aqua Nick® is conveniently adjacent to the resort, guests can still enjoy uninterrupted ocean views from their suites and seek out relaxing or high-energy spaces as they desire. Nickelodeon Place™: Character Experiences and Entertainment for All AgesNickelodeon Place™ will feature signature Nickelodeon characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Blue from Blue’s Clues & You and more. Within Nickelodeon Place™ is Club Nick, the ultimate free play zone for kids complete with special themed days, a craft laboratory, playground, stage, surprise visits by Nickelodeon™ characters and even Slime!; along with immersive entertainment experiences. Guests can also pay homage to the iconic Big Orange Couch at SNICK Lounge, a sophisticated ‘90s-inspired space that serves as a game room, sports lounge and live music venue Nickelodeon Fun with World-Class Gourmet Inclusive® ExperiencesWith Karisma’s industry-leading World-Class Gourmet Inclusive® Experience, guests will have access to 24-hour in-room dining as well as world-class food and beverages served at six distinct restaurants for every taste. Adult time is also elevated, with sommeliers and expert mixologists crafting drinks at three bars, including The Bikini Bottom Bar and two swim-up bars. Other standout resort amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center and a spa featuring kids’ treatments, couple’s suites, a luxurious bridal suite and outdoor treatment areas. Grupo Lomas Leadership to Bring Beloved Brands and Family Fun to Mexico“This year Grupo Lomas celebrates its 40th anniversary, and what better way to celebrate it than with the opening of this property that reaffirms our commitment to Mexico and continues to generate investment and jobs by betting on the most innovative accommodation concepts worldwide that contribute to strengthen the leadership of the Mexican Caribbean,” said Dolores López Lira, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Grupo Lomas. The tourism corporation’s investment in Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya will add nearly 2,000 luxury suites to its portfolio under the operation of Karisma Hotels & Resorts. “We are delighted to continue our successful partnership with Grupo Lomas and Karisma Hotels & Resorts to open this incredible resort along a stunning stretch of white sand beach, providing guests of all ages with an authentic vacation experience centered on five-star luxury, playfulness and the warm hospitality that makes Mexico such a beloved destination,” said Kevin Suh, President of Themed Entertainment at ViacomCBS. “With Viacom Global Insights reporting that 70% of kids find family time one of the most important sources of happiness, we’re excited to offer a fun destination that gives them a world-class family experience they won’t ever forget.” Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts is being brought to Riviera Maya by hospitality trailblazers Grupo Lomas, which has introduced guests to an authentic Mexican experience for decades with an impressive collection of resorts such as the award-winning El Dorado Spa Resorts as well as game-changing local investments such as a 70,000 sq. ft. community greenhouse.

Create: Feb 11, 2021 Edit: Feb 11, 2021 International News

Marriott Dallas Uptown Welcomes General Manager and Executive Chef

The Marriott Dallas Uptown team is excited to announce the appointment of Robbie Tawil as General Manager of the hotel property. Tawil has more than 35 years of experience with Marriott and the hospitality industry, including previous leadership roles in management and operations. Thrilled to open the 14-story, 255 guestroom hotel, Tawil will lead Marriott into the future, opening the first Marriott property with the latest generation room design. He is well equipped to lead his team and has done so successfully in the past. During his tenure with Marriott, Tawil has served as General Manager of the Marriott Conference Center in Norman, Oklahoma, General Manager of the Worthington Renaissance, Director of Operations at the Dallas Renaissance, Director of Food and Beverage at the Worthington in Fort Worth and Director of Operations at Dallas Marriott Downtown to name a few. Despite working with properties across the country, Tawil is excited to be working again in his hometown of Dallas. “Dallas has always been my home and I am elated to be opening a hotel in my own backyard,” said Tawil. “Marriott Dallas Uptown has so much to offer the burgeoning Uptown district. We are looking forward to meeting and serving our neighbors in the surrounding communities and welcoming travelers visiting Dallas from outside our city.” Also joining the Marriott Dallas Uptown team is Juan Pablo Silva as Executive Chef of Good Graces, the hotel’s restaurant. Chef Silva’s passion for food was born while cooking with his grandmother as a child in his hometown of Lima, Peru. He furthered his knowledge at Le Cordon Bleu Peru, where he graduated with a Culinary Arts and Hotel Management degree. Chef Silva has helped manage the culinary program for the largest Ritz-Carlton in the world, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal, where he served as the Executive Sous Chef. After three years in Abu Dhabi, Chef Silva became the Executive Sous Chef of the Ritz-Carlton in Dallas and then Executive Chef. He is honored and excited to take on the challenge of opening Good Graces, a modern American Brasserie. “The menu I’ve created for Good Graces will truly highlight each place I’ve cooked and learned from,” said Chef Silva. “From home-cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen in Peru to fine dining at the Ritz, this menu will be the perfect balance of each.”

Create: Feb 7, 2021 Edit: Feb 7, 2021 International News

New tourist complex inaugurated in Tehran

Shams ol-Emareh tourist complex was inaugurated in Baqershahr, south of Tehran province, on Wednesday on the occasion of Ten-Day Dawn (Jan. 31- Feb. 10, marking the victory anniversary of the Islamic Revolution). A budget of 370 billion rials (about $ 9 million at the official exchange rate of 42,000 rials per dollar) has been allocated to the project, Parham Janfeshan, the provincial tourism chief, addressing the opening ceremony. Constructed in an area of 11 hectares, the project is expected to create 30 job opportunities, the official added. Referring to tourism as being “advantageous” for the whole province, the official noted the tourism sector and relevant infrastructure are being developed and strengthened in all districts [and counties] of Tehran province even in low-income and deprived areas. Earlier this week, the official announced that a total of 206 tourism-related projects are scheduled to be inaugurated across the Iranian capital during the ten-day Fajr (dawn) ceremonies and celebrations. Ten accommodation centers including hotels, apartment hotels, eco-lodge units as well as tourist complexes, restaurants, and handicrafts workshops will come on stream, he explained. He also noted that a budget of seven trillion rials (about $167 million) has been allocated to the projects, which are expected to generate a total of 930 job opportunities. The mentioned projects will also add 816 beds to the hospitality sector of the Iranian capital, the official added. Hugging the lower slopes of the magnificent, snowcapped Alborz Mountains, Tehran is much more than a chaotic jumble of concrete and crazy traffic blanketed by a miasma of air pollution. This is the nation's dynamic beating heart and the place to get a handle on modern Iran and what its future will likely be. The metropolis has many to offer its visitors including Golestan Palace, Grand Bazaar, Treasury of National Jewels, National Museum of Iran, Glass & Ceramic Museum, Masoudieh Palace, Sarkis Cathedral, Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, Carpet Museum of Iran, to name a few. The first time Tehran is mentioned in historical accounts is in an 11th-century chronicle in which it is described as a small village north of Ray. It became the capital city of the Seljuk Empire in the 11th century but later declined with factional strife between different neighborhoods and the Mongol invasion of 1220.

Create: Feb 6, 2021 Edit: Feb 6, 2021 Regional News