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Hilton Launches Female Development Program in Sri Lanka

Hilton announced its partnership with the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (SLITHM) to launch Hilton Liya Diriya – a specially curated female development program in Sri Lanka. Translating to ‘female courage,’ Hilton Liya Diriya aims to provide training opportunities for local female students keen to build a career in hospitality. Selected participants will undergo two training phases to pick up practical knowledge, skills and experiences, involving a one-month period dedicated to theoretical training with SLITHM and a six-month industrial traineeship at one of Hilton’s properties in Sri Lanka. The establishment of the program is in line with Hilton’s Travel with Purpose 2030 goal of doubling its social impact investment, and underscores its continued commitment to ensuring inclusive growth, sustainable solutions and economic opportunities for all, even during these unprecedented times. Furthermore, by empowering its female participants and enabling them to pursue a career in hospitality, Hilton Liya Diriya also aims to create a positive impact on the community by increasing the historically lower1 labor force participation rate for women in Sri Lanka. On top of the training, participants will receive support from Hilton throughout the duration of the program, in the form of accommodation, allowance and mentoring. Upon graduation, they will also be awarded certifications, as well as employment opportunities at a Hilton property in Sri Lanka or abroad. Sri Lanka has shown immense potential for us over the years, evidenced by the resilience of the country, its promising tourism sector and ongoing improvements to infrastructure which have laid a strong foundation for us to kickstart our robust expansion plans,” said Paul Hutton, vice president, operations, Hilton in South East Asia. “Despite the challenges caused by the health pandemic, we continue to recognize its long-term prospects and have doubled down on our commitment to putting Sri Lanka on the global roadmap with the recent opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort in November – our third Hilton property in the country.” Commenting on the opportunity to further extend the Hilton Effect in Sri Lanka, Hutton added: “In line with our growing presence in the country, we also want to continue honoring our founder, Conrad Hilton, and his ambition to be the most hospitable company in the world, by doing our part for the communities we operate in. Through the introduction of Hilton Liya Diriya, we hope to leverage our scale and capacity to advance women’s economic empowerment in the country by identifying and developing the best local talents, and I look forward to seeing them excel in their careers with us.” Kimarli Fernando, chairperson of Sri Lanka Tourism, said: “We aspire to achieve a higher level of female participation in Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry, especially in the skilled and value creation areas, which would provide more opportunities for them to further their careers in the longer term. Currently, women make up less than 10 percent of the hospitality workforce locally, compared to 54 percent globally. This is a strategic change Sri Lanka Tourism is striving for and we are delighted to partner with Hilton on the Hilton Liya Diriya program, which is a major step forward to champion the strategic change in our workforce.”

Create: May 1, 2021 Edit: May 1, 2021 International News

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Opens La Quinta Hotel With Del Sol Prototype in Selma, NC

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with over 8,900 hotels across nearly 95 countries, announced today the opening of La Quinta by Wyndham Selma, the milestone 120th hotel in the La Quinta portfolio featuring the sought-after Del Sol prototype. There are 175 La Quinta hotels in the development pipeline, with openings scheduled this year in key markets such as Nashville, Tenn.; Santa Cruz, Calif.; Austin, Texas; Brooklyn, N.Y.; Denver, Colo.; and Corpus Christi, Texas. The brand has also announced plans to bring La Quinta to other countries including Dominican Republic, China, United Arab Emirates, Mexico and Georgia. Owned by Jay Sai Corporation, the new-construction La Quinta by Wyndham Selma features 80 modern guestrooms, a sleek lobby design and an outdoor pool. The hotel is conveniently located by both I-95 and US-70, near Smithfield Community Park, and is easily accessible from Raleigh-Durham International Airport. “This is a milestone opening for the La Quinta by Wyndham brand, and we’re proud to unveil this innovative new property,” said Krishna Paliwal, Wyndham’s president of La Quinta and head of architecture, design, and construction. “We’ve seen huge demand for this stylish, modern prototype, which offers a comfortable stay with contemporary rooms and thoughtful amenities for guests. It’s a great investment opportunity for hotel owners.” Developer interest continues to thrive for the Del Sol prototype, which features a fresh and stylish design providing comfort and convenience while enabling productivity, making it appealing to both business and leisure travelers. Since Wyndham’s acquisition of the La Quinta brand in 2018, 122 new franchise contracts have been executed, helping to drive franchise system growth to eight percent. La Quinta has been among the strongest performing brands throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, gaining 490 basis points of RevPAR Index in 2020 against its competitive set, according to STR data. As a leading upper-midscale brand, La Quinta offers contemporary design and a great guest experience at nearly 940 hotels across the United States, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Honduras, Mexico, Turkey, and New Zealand.

Create: Apr 27, 2021 Edit: Apr 27, 2021 International News

Concord Hospitality Plans June Opening of AC Hotel Columbus Downtown in Ohio

AC Hotel Columbus Downtown is slated to welcome its first guests in June. The property features a prime location that intersects the city’s bustling business district, Arena District and Short North Arts District. As part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, developed by Continental Hospitality Group and managed by Concord Hospitality, the modern, 160-room urban property will be a premier getaway for leisure and business travelers looking to experience the best Columbus has to offer. “The opening of the AC Hotel Columbus Downtown is symbolic of our city’s cultural growth in recent years,” said General Manager Lisa Garner, who joined Concord Hospitality in 2017 to oversee two Marriott hotels that remain under her watch in addition to the soon-to-open property. “The arrival of a lifestyle brand like AC Hotels by Marriott® helps cement Columbus’ reputation as a cultural innovator and tastemaker on the beat of what is trending in dining, art and entertainment. I’m proud to lead this incredible team and excited to find creative ways to utilize the city’s key attributes to enhance our guest experience.” With a pulse on the artistic heartbeat of the city, the hotel encourages guests to experience the art, culture and culinary traits that have earned Columbus its reputation as “The Hippest City in the Midwest.” The property features an inviting lobby with purposeful design and curated artwork that gives room to collaborative, flexible spaces. Its 160 guest rooms and suites provide a seamless, thoughtful experience that harmoniously blends with the area’s vibrant surroundings. Guests can enjoy European-inspired breakfasts at the hotel’s signature AC Kitchen with warm butter croissants, artisan cured meats such as thinly sliced Italian prosciutto, an international selection of cheeses, as well as yogurts and cereals, seasonal fruits and local specialties. The contemporary hotel offers 2,400 square feet of private event space with floor-to-ceiling panoramic skyline views, and the AC Lounge® by Lumin SkyBar, which doubles as a communal space by day and a lively social hub by night. Overlooking Park Street with scenic sunset views, the refined rooftop experience will transport guests to evenings in Barcelona with a variety of Spanish-inspired tapas, local craft beers and hand-crafted cocktails, including a selection of signature gin tonics. The hotel offers easy access to numerous landmarks and attractions, including the Nationwide Arena, new Columbus Crew Stadium, Greater Columbus Convention Center, The Scioto Mile and more than 350 restaurants, bars and retail shops. It is just a 10-minute drive from John Glenn International Airport and within a half day’s driving distance of more than a dozen major U.S. cities. The property is helping its first guests fuel up for fun with a Summer Road Trip Package. Travelers who book between June 6 and August 22, 2021, will receive a $50 gas credit per night of their visit and complimentary nightly parking. “Given our strong roots and relationships in the Columbus area, we had the opportunity to unlock the AC Hotel Columbus Downtown’s irreplaceable location,” said David Kass, CEO of Continental Hospitality Group. “Together with our trusted partner Concord Hospitality, the most prolific operator in Columbus, the AC Hotel Columbus Downtown will be one of the most desirable destinations in the popular Arena and Short North districts.”

Create: Apr 24, 2021 Edit: Apr 24, 2021 International News

Caesars Entertainment to Invest $400 Million Into Its Atlantic City Resorts By 2023

Master plan includes remodeled room towers, new restaurants and amenities, and a focus on revitalizing the Company’s flagship casino-hotel, Caesars Atlantic City, on the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk First phase of $170 million in guestroom and suite upgrades at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City and Caesars Atlantic City will debut Summer 2021 ATLANTIC CITY, N.J., April 22, 2021 — Caesars Entertainment, Inc. (“Caesars” or the “Company”) shared exciting details today on its $400 million master plan investment in Atlantic City where it owns and operates three of the region’s preeminent casino destinations – Caesars, Harrah’s Resort and Tropicana Atlantic City. The plans include remodeled room towers; freshly appointed interior design elements; enhancements to the casinos’ gaming floors; new dining concepts with acclaimed restaurant partners; and many more exciting additions within the next three years. These developments will bolster the City’s position as a Las Vegas-style destination market with a focus on revitalizing the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. The first phase of the project, a $170 million renovation of guestroom and suites at Caesars and Harrah’s, will debut in Summer 2021. “Building on our rich, 40-year legacy in the market, we are excited to introduce the new Caesars Entertainment to Atlantic City through our $400 million investment and development plan,” said Anthony Carano, President and Chief Operating Officer of Caesars Entertainment. “These exciting plans over the next three years will revitalize Caesars’ brand of hospitality, and will continue to position Harrah’s, Tropicana, and Caesars Atlantic City as leading resorts in the market. We remain bullish on Atlantic City, and this commitment will further position us for long-term growth and success.” “My administration has teamed up with corporate, community and government partners in an effort to reestablish Atlantic City as a premier tourist destination in New Jersey,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “This $400 million investment in the city supports our focus on growing the economy, continuing to support Atlantic City, and creating jobs in our state, and I applaud Caesars Entertainment for leading the recovery effort.” “Caesars Entertainment is the country’s largest gaming company, and we are thrilled that Atlantic City is home to three of their casinos,” said Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, Sr. “This year marks a new era for the City, and we appreciate Caesars’ dedication to the market as the largest employer in Atlantic County. Their three-year reinvestment plan doubles down on this commitment, which will undoubtedly reinvigorate Atlantic City.” $170 million room remodel inspired by Atlantic City’s beach and bay: This summer, Caesars Entertainment will unveil $170 million in room enhancements designed by Interior Image Group at Caesars and Harrah’s Resort, beginning with approximately 600 guest rooms and suites in Caesars’ Centurion and Ocean Towers, as well as Harrah’s Atrium Tower. The towers will offer accommodations with spectacular views and fresh design elements in rooms ranging from 450 to 700 square feet per room. At Caesars, the designs will feature a modern Roman aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the local Atlantic City scenery, including the beach, ocean and famed Boardwalk. The guest rooms and suites will feature rich hues of blue and cream accent colors, contrasting white and gray tones, and contemporary furniture, including modern bathrooms with oversized showers, mirrors, and signature amenities. At Harrah’s Resort, design inspiration was drawn from the casino’s upscale, yet accessible brand of hospitality with rich elements that are fun, lively and vibrant playing off the resort’s sophisticated Marina District locale.

Create: Apr 24, 2021 Edit: Apr 24, 2021 International News

Hyatt Partners With Carlisle LLC for a Caption by Hyatt hotel in Memphis, Tennessee

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a joint venture (JV) agreement with Carlisle LLC for a Caption by Hyatt hotel in Memphis, Tenn. The Caption by Hyatt brand is grounded in a commitment to caring for people and place and creating connections between them. “We’re excited to bring the Caption by Hyatt brand to Memphis, a brand that is truly committed to embracing the evolving needs of today’s traveler. We are confident this hotel will deliver on creating a welcoming space where both travelers and locals can hang out, be themselves, and feel connected to the community,” said Crystal Vinisse Thomas, Hyatt’s global brand leader, lifestyle and luxury brands. “Hyatt is committed to growing in places that matter most to our guests, World of Hyatt members and owners, and with the Caption by Hyatt brand, we have the opportunity to expand our footprint in a way that reflects the brand’s commitment to being truly of the community – not just in it. At Caption by Hyatt hotels, the people make the place, and we’re excited to see that come to life in Memphis.” Located at One Beale Street and adjacent Hyatt Centric Memphis Beale Street, which is set to open on April 15, Caption by Hyatt Memphis is expected to debut in 2022 and will be integrated into the historic main building of Wm. C Ellis & Sons Ironworks and Machine Shop, one of the earliest and longest running businesses in Memphis. The historic building will house the hotel’s ground and second floors, and a new 136-guestroom tower will rise above offering guests spectacular views of the Mississippi River and city skyline. The Caption by Hyatt brand’s signature marquee will adorn the hotel’s dual entrances, leading avid travelers and locals into the all-day, multi-functional lounge space, Talk Shop. The double height lounge will be enveloped by the historic building’s original heavy timber framing, decorative brick walls, archways, and clerestory windows. At Caption by Hyatt Memphis, Talk Shop will include an expansive patio and double height beer garden that will be incorporated into the building’s historic, decorative façade on Front Street – with locally driven tap beer offerings that will showcase the best beverages of the region, open fire-pits, exposed brick, and existing metal work, Caption by Hyatt Memphis will have an unmistakable neighborhood feel. Caption by Hyatt Memphis will work with Memphis-area purveyors and suppliers, making every effort to support local and minority-owned businesses whenever possible. “Carlisle is deeply rooted in the local Memphis community, and our properties reflect those roots. Just like our soon to open Hyatt Centric Memphis Beale Street, the Caption by Hyatt brand is aligned with our vision to truly make Memphis a world class destination for business and leisure travelers, as well as residents,” said Senior Vice President of Development & Asset Management Stephen Kallaher, Carlisle LLC. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to collaborate again with Hyatt to introduce the Caption by Hyatt brand to Downtown Memphis and we look forward to providing guests and locals with authentic, fresh experiences and new opportunities for meaningful connections. Caption by Hyatt Brand Primed for Global Growth With additional projects underway around the world, including Shanghai, Caption by Hyatt hotels will combine the design and comfort of an upscale, lifestyle-forward hotel with the self-guided options of a select-service property. Further, the brand can flex and adapt to suit the needs of different locations and markets, offering a more sustainable approach to design and operations. Destined for urban and downtown markets and lifestyle mixed-use developments, the Caption by Hyatt brand is redefining hospitality by embracing the evolving needs of people and places and allowing them to make Caption by Hyatt hotels their own. Offering dynamic, welcoming spaces for those who seek meaningful conversations, Caption by Hyatt hotels will encourage guests and locals to embrace self-expression in a space that delivers on experience and connection. The Caption by Hyatt brand is committed to hiring diverse talent, vendors, artisans, and suppliers in the community, giving each Caption by Hyatt hotel its own authentic expression of place. “We are focused on expanding the Caption by Hyatt brand footprint globally with the hope of building our business in key urban and downtown locations, including emerging neighborhoods and mixed-use lifestyle centers, where we can best extend care while also making a positive impact on our guests and communities,” said Jim Chu, Hyatt’s executive vice president of global franchising and development. “There’s incredible excitement surrounding the Caption by Hyatt brand, and we look forward to collaborating with new and existing owners and operators to bring managed and franchised Caption by Hyatt projects to fruition. As a fellow owner, Hyatt is deeply committed to helping owners and operators fully tap the power of the Caption by Hyatt brand in an effort to achieve operating excellence and ultimately drive revenue.” With a signature marquee sign above each hotel’s main entrance, Caption by Hyatt hotels will be distinct and at the same time have an unmistakable neighborhood feel. Anchored by an eclectic contemporary-meets-urban industrial style, each property will feature a playful layering of colors, textures, and hand-drawn graphic art. At Caption by Hyatt hotels, animated social and food-and-beverage spaces with tech-forward features – like digital check-in, digital keys, and mobile-order food service – unite for a seamless and efficient guest experience. At the heart of the Caption by Hyatt brand experience will be the brand’s food and beverage concept, Talk Shop, that will serve as a lively welcome area, all-day lounge and workspace, coffee shop, eatery, grab-and-go artisanal market and cocktail bar. Menus will feature locally inspired all-day items and regional favorites with locally sourced ingredients in a spirited and upbeat setting.

Create: Apr 15, 2021 Edit: Apr 15, 2021 International News

JdV by Hyatt Brand Expands into Canada With The 115-Room Anndore House in Toronto

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced the continued expansion of the JdV by Hyatt brand with The Anndore House joining the brand today and plans for The Walper Hotel to join the brand later this year. This milestone signifies the JdV by Hyatt brand’s intentional growth in a new market while offering experiences in places that matter most to guests, members, customers and owners. While the brand has 14 properties across the United States and China, The Anndore House marks its debut in Toronto today, and The Walper Hotel is currently slated to join the JdV by Hyatt brand this May. “We are thrilled to introduce the JdV by Hyatt brand to Canada and expand our brand footprint in the Americas through two new hotels with The Anndore House and The Walper Hotel,” said Scott Richer, regional vice president of real estate and development, Hyatt. “The JdV by Hyatt brand offers our spirited guests a collection of vibrant, independent hotels and a socially inclusive stay through joy-driven service and eclectic, locally inspired experiences.” Further details on each of the new hotels are included below: The Anndore House, a JdV by Hyatt hotel Formerly a 10-story residential building, The Anndore House features décor and amenities reflective of its vibrant Toronto neighborhood. The 115-room boutique hotel currently offers two food and beverage outlets as well as lively artwork throughout the entire property. The food and beverage offerings include the Mediterranean eatery, Constantine, owned by the Mercatto Group and led by Chef Craig Harding. Crows Nest Barbershop is also in-house, and its team expects to open the very first Crows Nest Café later this year. The Walper Hotel, a JdV by Hyatt hotel The 92-room Walper Hotel, located in the heart of Kitchener, one of Ontario’s oldest neighborhoods and a hub of vibrant growth in the burgeoning Waterloo-Toronto Tech Corridor, is expected to join the JdV by Hyatt brand later this year. With enhancements currently underway on the existing hotel, The Walper Hotel will feature the JdV by Hyatt brand’s inclusive spirit and heartfelt service.

Create: Apr 3, 2021 Edit: Apr 3, 2021 International News

Hyatt Celebrates 1,000th Global Hotel Opening With Debut of Alila Napa Valley

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced the official opening of Hyatt’s 1,000th hotel worldwide, Alila Napa Valley in St. Helena, Calif. Founder Jay Pritzker purchased the first Hyatt hotel in 1957 with a new vision for hospitality, built around people. Since then, Hyatt’s purpose to care for people so they can be their best has driven groundbreaking hotel designs, the award-winning World of Hyatt guest loyalty program and strategic brand acquisitions. Today, this milestone reinforces Hyatt’s continued commitment to intentional growth in places that matter most to guests, members, customers, and owners. Marking the expansion of Hyatt’s luxury lifestyle Alila brand portfolio with the brand’s second property in the Americas, Alila Napa Valley offers guests crafted luxury, innovative design, and bespoke experiences in one of the world’s most famous wine regions. The 68-room adults-only restorative retreat is surrounded by the pristine Home Vineyards of the Beringer Estate and features an outdoor pool overlooking adjacent vineyards and distant mountains, a seasonally driven restaurant and bar with a local, sustainable menu and Spa Alila and Fitness Center with transformative, customized treatments. “Hyatt’s thoughtful journey to 1,000 hotels has been grounded in listening, growing, and innovating along the way to meet guest, member, customer and owner needs,” said Jim Chu, Hyatt’s executive vice president of global franchising and development. “Today, we remain focused on expanding our global footprint and building our business based on where we can best extend care and make a positive impact on our guests and the communities in which we operate. With a strong pipeline of new openings and developments, Hyatt continues to offer differentiated experiences that will cater to the growing demand for leisure destinations our guests are seeking as they get back to travel.” Planned 2021 Hyatt Property Opening Highlights In 2021, Hyatt plans to welcome several properties to its portfolio in key global markets. Highlights across brands include: Alila The Alila brand features luxury hotels in unique locations, distinguished by innovative eco-design and a strong commitment to sustainable tourism. Alila means “surprise” in Sanskrit, which suitably describes the refreshing character of Alila hotels and the impression guests feel when they stay as a guest. alilahotels.com Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas (130 guestrooms) in Encinitas, Calif.Alila Dalit Bay (152 guestrooms) in Sabah, MalaysiaAlila Hinu Bay (112 guestrooms) in Salalah, Oman Andaz Global in scale while local in perspective, the Andaz brand of luxury lifestyle hotels weave the sights, sounds, and tastes of each property’s surroundings for a distinctively local experience. Every Andaz hotel is a unique expression of the culture that surrounds it and enables guests to go beyond the familiar and satiate their curiosity. andaz.com Andaz Bali (149 guestrooms) in Bali, Indonesia Destination by Hyatt Destination by Hyatt is a diverse collection of independent hotels, resorts and spacious residences that are individual at heart yet connected by a commitment to embody the true spirit of each location. Ranging from upper-upscale to luxury, each property is purposefully crafted to be a place of discovery through immersive experiences, authentic design, and genuine service. destinationhotels.com Banyan Cay Resort & Golf (190 guestrooms) in West Palm Beach, Fla.The Seabird Resort (226 guestrooms) in Oceanside, Calif.The Shay(148 guestrooms) in Culver City, Calif.Sweetgrass Inn at Wild Dunes Resort (153 guestrooms) in Isle of Palms, S.C. Grand Hyatt Grand Hyatt hotels celebrate the iconic in small details and magnificent moments. Drawing inspiration from each destination, Grand Hyatt hotels provide superior service and signature experiences within a backdrop of dramatic architecture, world-class restaurants, luxury spas, and spectacular meeting and event spaces. grandhyatt.com Grand Hyatt Kuwait (303 guestrooms) in Kuwait City, Kuwait Hyatt Centric Hyatt Centric is a brand of lifestyle hotels located in prime destinations around the world that inspire discovery for savvy, millennial-minded travelers with an adventurous spirit. Each Hyatt Centric hotel is in the heart of the action with passionately engaged team members always on-hand to serve up insider knowledge and provide local expertise. hyattcentric.com Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis (227 guestrooms) in Memphis, Tenn.Additional Hyatt Centric hotels expected to open in destinations globally in 2021: Cambridge, England.; Charlotte, N.C.; Denver, Colo.; Dubai, U.A.E.; Melbourne, Australia; Nashville, Tenn.; Sacramento, Calif.; Antiguo Cuscatlan, El Salvador Hyatt House / Hyatt Place Hyatt House hotels are designed to welcome guests as extended stay residents. Apartment-style suites with fully equipped kitchens and separate living areas remind guests of the conveniences of home. Hyatt Place hotels offer a modern, comfortable, and seamless experience, combining style and innovation to create a casual hotel environment for today’s multi-tasking traveler. From the lobby to the guest rooms to in-hotel dining, every touchpoint is designed with the high value business traveler in mind. hyatthouse.com / hyattplace.com Hyatt House Scottsdale-North and Hyatt Place Scottsdale-North (229 combined guestrooms) in Scottsdale, Ariz.Hyatt House LAX/Century Blvd and Hyatt Place LAX/Century Blvd (401 combined guestrooms) in Los AngelesHyatt Place Kyoto (239 guestrooms) in Kyoto, JapanHyatt Place Montreal Downtown (353 guestrooms) in MontrealHyatt Place New York Chelsea (510 guestrooms) in New YorkHyatt Place St. Augustine/Vilano Beach (124 guestrooms) in St. Augustine, Fla. Hyatt Regency Hyatt Regency hotels are intuitively designed to make travel free from stress and filled with success. Conveniently located in urban and resort locations in more than 30 countries, Hyatt Regency hotels offer seamless experiences for any occasion, from energizing vacations to personalized, high-touch meetings. hyattregency.com Hyatt Regency JFK at Resorts World New York (400 guestrooms) in New YorkHyatt Regency Koh Samui (139 guestrooms) in Koh Samui, ThailandHyatt Regency Zurich Airport The Circle (255 guestrooms) in Zurich, Switzerland JdV by Hyatt A community for the spirited, light-hearted, and young-at-heart, the JdV by Hyatt brand offers a collection of vibrant, independent hotels that are true reflections of the urban neighborhoods they call home. Each hotel provides an experience that is inclusive in spirit and space, welcoming all vibes, tribes and unique souls—effortlessly bringing people together with joy-driven service. jdvhotels.com El Capitan Hotel (114 guestrooms) in Merced, Calif.Mission Pacific Hotel (161 guestrooms) in Oceanside, Calif.The Anndore House (113 guestrooms) in Toronto, OntarioThe Walper Hotel (92 guestrooms) in Toronto, OntarioAdditional JdV by Hyatt hotels expected to open in 2021 include Story Hotel Riddargatan (82 guestrooms) and Story Hotel Signalfabriken (83 guestrooms) in Stockholm, as well as Story Hotel Studio Malmö (96 guestrooms) in Malmö, Sweden Park Hyatt Park Hyatt hotels provide discerning, global travelers with a refined home-away-from-home. Guests of Park Hyatt hotels receive quietly confident and personalized service in an enriching environment. Located in several of the world’s premier destinations, each Park Hyatt hotel is custom designed to combine sophistication with understated luxury. parkhyatt.com Park Hyatt Toronto (219 guestrooms) reopening in Toronto, Ontario Thompson Hotels Founded in 2001, Thompson Hotels is a collection of award-winning luxury hotels with timelessly original properties in urban and resort destinations. Each hotel delivers a new take on modern luxury and tailored stays for guests with connections to world-class culinary offerings, arts and entertainment, and groundbreaking design. thompsonhotels.com Thompson Hotels expected to open in U.S. destinations in 2021: Austin, Texas; Buckhead, Ga.; Denver; Hollywood, Calif.; and Savannah, Ga. The Unbound Collection by Hyatt More than a compilation of independent, one-of-a-kind hotels, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand offers a thoughtful curation of stories worth collecting. Whether it’s a modern marvel, a historic gem or a revitalizing retreat, each property provides thought-provoking environments and experiences that inspire for guests seeking elevated yet unscripted service when they travel. unboundcollectionbyhyatt.com Hotel du Palais Biarritz (139 guestrooms) reopening in Biarritz, FranceCommune by The Great Wall (175 guestrooms) in Beijing, China

Create: Mar 16, 2021 Edit: Mar 16, 2021 International News

Radisson Individuals Debuts in India With the First Hotel Opening in Imphal

Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce the debut of Radisson Individuals in India with the opening of Classic Grande Imphal, a member of Radisson Individuals today. Radisson Individuals offers independent hotels, along with local and regional hotel chains, the opportunity to benefit from Radisson Hotel Group’s international awareness and experience with the freedom to maintain their individual uniqueness and identity. Each hotel joining the Radisson Individuals brand is selected for their own characteristics and personalities. The brand offers guests an opportunity to discover new locations around the world, while experiencing Radisson Hotel Group’s high standards of quality and Yes I Can! service, combined with the local flavors and personality of each hotel. The brand was launched last year and is expected to be a key contributor to the Group’s growth story in the market. “We are excited to enter this new partnership launching Radisson Individuals in India. The hotel’s strong service standards, matched by our global expertise and robust distribution will co-create unparalleled experiences for guests looking to travel to the beautiful city of Imphal,” said Zubin Saxena, Managing Director and Vice President, Operations, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group. Overlooking the majestic Baruni Twin Hills and ridges, Classic Grande Imphal, a member of Radisson Individuals features 171 uniquely designed rooms. The hotel is strategically built in the commercial hub of Imphal at Chingmeirong and is just nine kilometers away from Bir Tikendrajit International Airport. The hotel’s convenient access makes it a prime choice for business and leisure travelers visiting the city. Spread over 54,000 square feet, the hotel’s modern architecture and state-of-the-art room designs exuberate world-class living. It features rooms across Superior, Deluxe, Suite and Presidential Suite categories, two banquet halls with capacity of 100 to 250 pax and a meeting room. Housing exciting dining options that suit all tastes, the hotel includes some of the finest restaurant options such as Aroma – multicuisine restaurant; Panorama – grills and kebabs and Atrium – coffee lounge. The hotel also features a full-service spa – Oriyana, a contemporary fitness center with modern equipment and a swimming pool. “We are delighted to be affiliated to Radisson Hotel Group. Radisson Individuals represents a great opportunity for us to enhance our visibility, nurture customer confidence, and access a wider guest database. With this association we will be able to take the hotel to new heights and deliver globally recognized experiences with a touch of local,” said Dr. Thangjam Dhabali Singh, Owner, Chairman & Managing Director, Babina Group. Salam Sachhidanand Singh, General Manager, Classic Grande Imphal, a member of Radisson Individuals added, “The hotel focuses on style, function and services that provide an upscale and comfortable experience for guests. Easy access from Bir Tikendrajit International Airport and our unmatched hospitality make Classic Grande Imphal, a member of Radisson Individuals a preferred choice for our guests.” Classic Grande Imphal, a member of Radisson Individuals will be implementing the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol, launched in collaboration with SGS, the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. With safety protocols in place, guests can safely check-in and check-out with a peace of mind.

Create: Mar 9, 2021 Edit: Mar 10, 2021 International News

Wyndham Breaks Ground on First LaQuinta and Hawthorn Suites Dual-Brand Hotel in Pflugerville, Texas

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) – the world’s largest hotel franchising company with over 8,900 hotels across nearly 95 countries and territories – announced today the first groundbreaking of its new La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites dual-brand hotel concept in Pflugerville, Texas. This marks the first-ever pairing of these two flags under the same roof and enables owners to target both the business transient and extended-stay demand within any given market. The company has 36 La Quinta and Hawthorn dual-branded hotels in its development pipeline in markets such as San Antonio and El Paso, Texas; Yuma, Ariz.; Wichita, Kan.; Charlotte, N.C. The property is slated to open in March 2022 with a combined 100 guestrooms – 30 of which will feature the recently updated Hawthorn room design that includes modern, well-equipped kitchens for extended-stay guests. This hotel will also feature the newly refreshed room design from La Quinta’s sought-after Del Sol prototype in 70 rooms. This new dual-brand hotel concept is designed to streamline development and operational costs. The concept includes a shared lobby, spacious modern great room, fitness center, bar, amenities, and back of the house all while appealing to the multiple types of travelers that have an affinity for these brands. The combination enhances Wyndham’s suite of offerings for developers by coupling its leading upper-midscale brand, La Quinta, with its benchmark, extended-stay Hawthorn Suites brand that reported a 44 percent year-over-year increase in domestic contract executions during 2020. Conveniently located at Pflugerville’s Stone Hill Town Center, just 15 miles northeast of Austin, the hotel provides easy access to the area’s more than 1,000 acres of scenic parks, trails and open spaces. The growing suburb of Pflugerville has seen significant business and residential growth, with a nearly 40 percent population increase in the past 10 years. We’re delighted to expand our portfolio with this new dual-branded hotel, providing these two distinct accommodations under one roof to meet the diverse needs of today’s travelers and provide operational efficiencies for developers,” said Krishna Paliwal, Wyndham’s president of La Quinta and head of architecture, design, and construction. “Our powerful marketing and sales programs for both La Quinta and Hawthorn will combine to drive reservations to this hotel. The industry-leading Wyndham Rewards program, now 86 million members strong, drives 46 percent of all U.S. hotel stays across our portfolio.” With La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites targeting different types of travelers, this brand pairing offers a unique opportunity to introduce a new subset of consumers to Wyndham’s strong upper-midscale and midscale portfolio. By bringing select-service and long-term lodging together under one roof, Wyndham is tapping into the steady and strong appetite developers and travelers have for extended-stay, especially in the midscale space which is expected to continue the high growth that it is seeing today.

Create: Mar 6, 2021 Edit: Mar 6, 2021 International News

Australia Welcomes First Hotel Indigo in the Vibrant Neighbourhood of Adelaide

IHG Hotels & Resorts’ boutique lifestyle brand, Hotel Indigo, has made its Australian debut with the opening of Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets on 1 March. The much-anticipated 145-room hotel with its intriguing design features, deep connections to the neighbourhood and exemplary culinary offerings is set to become a vibrant cultural hub for locals and visitors, and a hallmark of Hotel Indigo properties around the world. Located next to the lively Adelaide Central Market, the hotel champions local producers in its two restaurants, Market & Meander Eatery and Bar, as well as rooftop raw food bar, Merrymaker, which stands as the highest rooftop bar in Adelaide. Housed on the site of a former textile factory, the property’s “Raw and Refined” design ethos celebrates the neighbourhood’s commercial past with an exciting blend of heritage-listed and modern architecture, as well as eye-catching contemporary design features. The hotel’s public spaces feature striking brick archways mimicking those in Adelaide Central Market, colourful street art-inspired murals by acclaimed Australian collage artists including Tristan Kerr, and an exposed terracotta brick feature wall etched with intriguing neighbourhood references such as “Six o’clock Swill” and “Mad March” – the name given to Festival month in the city. Continuing its cultural tribute, exclusive Adelaide Festival-inspired poster art features in the corridors and rooms, while a rotating selection of artworks create an engaging, ever-changing backdrop in public spaces. Thomas Zinn, General Manager, Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets, said: “Hotel Indigo has paved its way across the globe as a truly fascinating brand designed to draw inspiration and spark curiosity from the roots of its surrounding neighbourhoods. With our ideal location right next door to the iconic Adelaide Central Market and near the newly renovated Her Majesty’s Theatre, Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets is the perfect escape for visitors and locals looking for a new way to connect with Adelaide.” Inspiring local designJust as no two neighbourhoods are alike, no two Hotel Indigos are the same. The hotel’s 145 oversized rooms and suites all feature unique design touches, drawing on local neighbourhood cues. These include copper fixtures – a nod to South Australia’s copper mining heritage, contemporary light wood furnishings and colourful rugs depicting the distinctive tessellated tile pattern often used in traditional Adelaide homes. Bathrooms are complete with modern two-head rainfall showers and premium Biology bath amenities, supporting the hotel’s green ethos with large-format bottles and environmentally friendly packaging. Bedheads are emblazoned with eye-catching Festival-inspired murals while floor-to-ceiling windows provide majestic views over the city toward the Adelaide Hills, and all rooms contain local touchpoints such as teas by local supplier T Bar. The hotel’s 25 suites feature luxurious king size beds, espresso machines and minibars featuring locally sourced items including a pre-batched Wattleseed Negroni from Lot 100 in the Adelaide Hills, Floral as Hell Gin by local distiller, Blend Etiquette and the delicious Inch Licorice Block by Adelaide-based Melba’s Chocolates. Joining the fabric of the communityMuch like its counterparts around the world, Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets is perfectly positioned in a culturally-rich neighbourhood. Located in the heart of Adelaide’s vibrant market precinct, this hotel is a gateway through which to discover the city’s most inspiring stories. The hotel is located just steps from the bountiful fresh local produce and colourful characters at Adelaide Central Market, with other nearby attractions including Chinatown, with its host of authentic Asian eateries, and the multicultural gourmet thoroughfares of Grote and Gouger Streets, where you can find everything from authentic Japanese yakitori to chargrilled Argentinian-style steaks. In addition to fantastic food options, the neighbourhood’s laneways are lined with inviting bars to catch a pre-dinner drink including retro chic cocktail bar Lotus Lounge, craft brew specialist 55ml and small-batch gin distiller Prohibition Liquor Co. The hotel is also walking distance from many of the city’s big-ticket attractions including Rundle Mall, Adelaide Botanic Garden, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Zoo and Art Gallery of South Australia. It also has convenient transport access with a free CBD tram stop nearby. Locally-loved destination diningInspired culinary experiences build on the brand’s legacy of restaurants that become neighbourhood favourites. Guests at Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets will discover menus that showcase the meal’s provenance, with a focus on all things local. As the city’s highest rooftop bar, Merrymaker offers a mesmerising panorama of the CBD and Adelaide Hills from its 16th-floor vantage point. Utilising the freshest regional produce, the raw food-focused venue features a mouth-watering selection of local seafood, charcuterie and cheeses prepared in an open kitchen. Guests will enjoy more than 25 award-winning gins plus a wide range of South Australian wines and craft beers. Market & Meander is a ground-floor all-day dining venue that champions local produce while honouring the district’s multicultural influences. Signature dishes include slow-cooked smoked brisket and delicious free-range chicken prepared on an authentic South American-style parrilla grill. Guests will also enjoy the local design touches found in this bar and eatery with its colour scheme inspired by long-serving South Australian Premier Don Dunstan, who was famous for his social advocacy and flamboyant pink shorts. Fitness and functionsIn addition to a well-equipped 24/7 fitness centre, the hotel features a 13 metre outdoor infinity pool, two boardroom-style meeting rooms and the option to hold events on the mezzanine level and rooftop. The opening strengthens the brand’s exciting growth into new markets, including Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown which opened in October 2020 and the brand’s debut in Japan with Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora opened in January 2020. In Australasia, the brand will continue to expand into new neighbourhoods with Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland set to open in the coming years. Established in 2004, Hotel Indigo is open in over 125 neighborhoods, with more than 100 new hotels in the pipeline. Hotel Indigo is recognised as one of the leading boutique brands in the world.

Create: Mar 2, 2021 Edit: Mar 2, 2021 International News

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Arrives in Cambodia With Opening of Howard Johnson Plaza by Wyndham Blue Bay Sihanoukville

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company and leading provider of hotel management services with over 8,900 hotels across nearly 95 countries on six continents, has opened its first hotel in Cambodia, the Howard Johnson Plaza by Wyndham Blue Bay Sihanoukville, a brand new landmark on the country’s tropical coast. Howard Johnson by Wyndham continues its expansion in Southeast Asia with the opening of Blue Bay Sihanoukville following successful openings for the brand in China and South Korea. Howard Johnson by Wyndham is a globally recognised brand with hotels in more than 320 locations across three continents: North America, South America and Asia. The 522-key upscale hotel is the latest addition to Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio of over 1,500 hotels across the Asia Pacific region. “We are delighted to celebrate Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ entry into Cambodia with the opening of Howard Johnson Plaza by Wyndham Blue Bay Sihanoukville. Across Asia Pacific, we are committed to growing our portfolio in amazing destinations – such as Sihanoukville – and we are confident that the hotel’s prime location by the beach, along with its excellent amenities, will make it one of the most desirable places to stay in the city,” said Joon Aun Ooi, President, Asia Pacific, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “This is an incredible milestone opening for Wyndham and we look forward to continuing our strong growth momentum. Through our robust pipeline of franchise and management contracts across the region, we anticipate more than 100 openings in Southeast Asia in the next 3-5 years. This will further strengthen our value proposition for Wyndham Rewards members as well as that for our owners and partners,” he added. Seafront Style with Five-Star FacilitiesHoward Johnson Plaza by Wyndham Blue Bay Sihanoukville is a stunning 36-storey upscale hotel comprising 322 contemporary rooms and suites with city and sea views, perfectly positioned at Independence Beach, close to the centre of Sihanoukville and overlooking the sparkling sea. Guests can unwind in style in the hotel’s guestrooms, which feature plush bedding, marble bathrooms with rain showers and, in some rooms, sea-facing balconies with spa tubs. For the ultimate indulgence, the hotel’s Presidential Suite offers an extensive 200 sqm of space with loft-like interiors and flexible open space, suitable for families or romantic getaways. Boasting an air of tranquillity, guests can savour glittering views of the Gulf of Thailand from the private bathtub or entertain friends and family in its spacious living and dining area. Howard Johnson Plaza by Wyndham Blue Bay Sihanoukville also offers plenty of opportunities for guests to relax and unwind at the hotel with leisure and wellness facilities including an outdoor swimming pool with panoramic sea views, a well-equipped fitness centre, a spa, and a duty-free retail outlet. The hotel is also home to three dining outlets, including: Andaman Sea, the all-day dining restaurant serving international favourites alongside Sichuan, Cantonese and Hunan cuisine; the Private Dining Room, serving local, Chinese and Western specialties; and the Infinity Lounge, which serves a refreshing array of beverages and cocktails. Visitors who want to explore the local area can take advantage of an onsite tour desk or request for professional services at the business centre. Guests staying on club floors can also enjoy bespoke amenities at the dedicated club lounge offering daily breakfast as well as cocktails and canapés every evening. The hotel is also directly connected to the region’s largest shopping mall and a major gaming centre, while the soft sands of Independence Beach are just moments away. Discover the Wonders the Cambodian RivieraSihanoukville is a serene seaside town and fishing port on the Cambodian coast and the capital of Sihanoukville Province. The coastal city is home to a string of sandy beaches, including Independence Beach, Victory Beach, Ochheuteal Beach, Otres Beach and Serendipity Beach, which offer an exotic blend of warm, clear seas, palm-fringed sand, and exhilarating water sports. The city is also the gateway to Cambodia’s idyllic offshore islands, such as Koh Rong, which offer pristine landscapes and spectacular snorkelling activities. The new hotel is located just 26km away from Sihanouk International Airport, while the Cambodian capital city, Phnom Penh, is 225km away.

Create: Feb 20, 2021 Edit: Feb 20, 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