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November 4th, 2024
Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal Appoints Erik Rivera as Director of Food and Beverage
Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning portfolio of more than 30 iconic properties that creates a unique sense of place with a relentless commitment to sincerely elegant service, one-of-a-kind experiences and culinary mastery in landmark destinations around the world. Inspired by their timeless environments, Waldorf Astoria hotels deliver an effortless experience seamlessly, creating a true sense of place for guests through stunning architecture, Peacock Alley, refined art collections, Michelin-starred dining and elevated in-room amenities. In addition to the brand’s world-class hotel offerings, Waldorf Astoria boasts a global residential portfolio that provides the comfort of a private home combined with unsurpassed amenities and high-touch service. Waldorf Astoria is part of Hilton, a leading global hospitality company. Experience an unforgettable stay at Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts by booking at waldorfastoria.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts at stories.hilton.com/waldorfastoria, and follow the brand on Twitter and Instagram. | August 8, 2024
Rivera to Oversee all Culinary Outlets and Events at the Award-Winning Luxury Beach Resort LOS CABOS, MX (AUG 8, 2024) – Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is proud to announce the appointment of Erik Rivera as Director of Food and Beverage at the award-winning beachfront resort. Rivera brings a wealth of experience and passion for hospitality to this role, with a proven track record of success in the luxury hospitality and culinary industry. As Director of Food & Beverage, Rivera will oversee the day-to-day operations of the resort’s multiple culinary outlets including the award-winning cliff-side dining restaurant El Farallon, sig...
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts Announces Expansion in the Caribbean With Rosewood Exuma
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts | August 8, 2024
In partnership with Miami-based Yntegra Group, Rosewood Exuma will open in 2028 to unveil the brand’s elevated approach to experiential travel Exuma, a pristine archipelago of 365 islands in the Bahamas, has long been a haven for sophisticated globetrotters and seafarers. Today, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts is pleased to name the destination as the latest addition to the brand’s Caribbean portfolio with the announcement of Rosewood Exuma, a private island experience that will fuse together the best of both ultra-luxury and adventure travel. Imagined in partnership with Yntegra Group, a Miami-based private investment company, the new dev...
Kimpton Partners With JMA Ventures and Machete Group to Develop New Kimpton Orlando
Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants | August 8, 2024
ATLANTA (Aug. 8, 2024) – Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ fast-growing luxury and lifestyle portfolio, announces today a new partnership with JMA Ventures and Machete Group to develop the boutique luxury brand’s first location in Orlando. The new hotel will be located adjacent to the Kia Center arena, as part of Westcourt’s new mixed-use sports and entertainment development that will offer a variety of expansive experiences for visitors and locals alike. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Westcourt's commitment to offering guests the most-elevated hotel stay directly in the heart o...
MOP by Visual Matrix Helps Hoteliers Achieve Efficiencies in a Strained Labor Market, Industry Adoption Grows by More than 400%
Visual Matrix | August 8, 2024
Visual Matrix MOP continues to improve hotel operations, optimize guest satisfaction, and set new standards for worker safety Richardson, Texas, August 8, 2024 – Visual Matrix, a leading provider of advanced technology solutions for the hospitality industry, has increased the growth of its MOP technology 440 percent since Visual Matrix acquired the technology in November 2021. MOP is now used at more than 1,000 hotels representing than 33 brands in the industry, including Wyndham, Hilton, Marriott, IHG, Choice, and more. “MOP was designed to help hoteliers overcome the many operating challenges they face today, in addition to the crunch...
May 2024 Total International Travel Volume To and From the United States
International Trade Administration | August 8, 2024
Outbound Travel Departures from the United States by U.S. Citizens Totaled 9,265,840 in May 2024, an Increase of 9.7 percent Compared to May 2023 Data recently released by the National Travel and Tourism Office show that in May 2024, International Arrivals to the United States Total non-U.S. resident international visitor volume to the United States of 6,068,711 increased +12.7 percent compared to May 2023 and represented 90.5 percent of the pre-COVID total visitor volume reported for May 2019. Overseas visitor volume to the United States of 3,042,475 increased +17.5 percent from May 2023. May 2024 was the thirty-e...
Latin America Hotel Construction Pipeline Expands With 11% YOY Growth – Updated New Openings Forecast
Lodging Econometrics | August 8, 2024
August 8, 2024 – PORTSMOUTH, NH The Q2 2024 Latin America construction pipeline trend report from Lodging Econometrics (LE) indicates a positive growth trajectory for the region’s hospitality sector, with stable growth in new hotel openings forecast through 2026. This projected growth is supported by the region’s expanding construction pipeline, currently standing at 612 projects (97,597 rooms), marking an 11% increase in projects and a 10% increase in rooms year-over-year. At the end of the second quarter, Latin America has 253 projects with 44,319 rooms under construction, reflecting an 11% YOY increase in projects and a 15% inc...
From Revenue to Profit: A Culture Shift in Hotel Commercial Strategy
Otelier | August 8, 2024
Amid challenges like flatlining demand and increased pricing pressure, forward-thinking hotel commercial strategy teams are shifting their focus from driving revenue to driving profitability. By Jason Q. Freed Hospitality Data Evangelist, Otelier As pandemic-induced “revenge travel” wanes and inflation continues to squeeze travelers’ wallets, many hotels are finding rising operating costs are outpacing revenue growth. The result is a widespread decline in profit margins. Given these conditions, for hotel owners and operators, focusing on strategies to drive profitability over the near term is critical. In many cases, this requires ...
Hard Rock International Announces Development of REVERB by Hard Rock Pensacola To Open in 2029
REVERB by Hard Rock® | August 7, 2024
PENSACOLA, Fla., Aug. 7, 2024 -- Today, Hard Rock International announces development plans for REVERB by Hard Rock® Pensacola to break ground in 2026 and open in 2029. REVERB by Hard Rock® is a unique hotel brand designed to be an energetic cultural hub for connection, creation and inspiration among music fans, locals and travelers alike. This will mark the company's sixth REVERB property joining the portfolio, with Atlanta and Hamburg, and Kalamazoo, Tampa, and Scottsdale also being developed. REVERB by Hard Rock® Pensacola will feature more than 125 hotel technology-enhanced rooms, a full-service restaurant, rooftop bar, lo...
Nominate an Individual for the 2024 HFTP Paragon Award
HFTP | August 7, 2024
Each year, HFTP recognizes an individual who has made a lasting impact on the association and industry with the HFTP Paragon Award. This award recognizes individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to both HFTP and the hospitality industry. It will be presented at the HFTP 2024 Annual Convention, taking place October 18-20 at the JW Marriott Indianapolis Hotel in Indianapolis. Do you know someone whose accomplishments should be celebrated? You are invited to nominate a deserving individual by August 16. Submit your nomination via the nomination form. The 2022 Paragon Award winner, Daniel Conti, Jr, CHAE+ stated, ...
Luxury Travel: Trends and Opportunities
Nandika Udupihilla | August 7, 2024
The global luxury travel market is booming. Not only is there an increasing spending by elite travellers to visit new places, but the preference for micro trips, escapism, and experience economy is also giving rise to the rapidly expanding tourism sector across the globe. The market is fuelled by the shifting customer behaviour of paying more for a truly memorable experience. Who is the luxury traveller? Contrary to popular belief, luxury travellers do not always mean “wealthy travellers.” For each group, luxury means a different experience. Aspiring luxury: Often millennials, they are known for being digital savvy and ...
Peachtree Group Promotes Vickie Callahan to President of Hospitality Management Division
Peachtree Group | August 7, 2024
Peachtree Group Promotes Vickie Callahan to President of Hospitality Management Division ATLANTA (Aug. 7, 2024) – Peachtree Group ("Peachtree") today announced that Vickie Callahan has been promoted to president of the firm's hospitality management division. In her new role, Callahan will oversee the company's portfolio of owned and third-party managed hotels, totaling 88 hotels across 27 brands and 11,173 rooms in 23 states and Washington, D.C. "Since joining us in 2020 as senior vice president of revenue generation, Vickie has been an invaluable member of our team," said Greg Friedman, managing principal and CEO of Peachtree Group....
Radisson Debuts in the Heart of the Champagne Region With the Opening of Radisson Hotel Reims
Radisson Hotel Group | August 7, 2024
Brussels - 7 August 2024 Radisson Hotel Group is delighted to announce its debut in the heart of the Champagne region with the opening of Radisson Hotel Reims. This contemporary hotel bolsters the upscale Radisson brand in France, marking its second location in the country. Situated just steps away from the vibrant Halles du Boulingrin and directly opposite the Reims Arena, Radisson Hotel Reims is poised to become a premier destination for travelers seeking a harmonious and enriching travel experience. Designed by the renowned Anna Moussinet, Radisson Hotel Reims seamlessly blends timeless architectural design with modern ae...
Shiji Introduces Seamless Integration With Wi-Q for Enhanced Mobile Ordering
Shiji | August 7, 2024
Adding additional mobile ordering options to Shiji’s Infrasys Cloud POS boosts F&B efficiency, enhances guest experiences, and streamlines operations for hoteliers. ATLANTA, Georgia, United States, August 7, 2024 – Shiji, the global leader in hospitality technology, is thrilled to announce the seamless integration of its Infrasys Cloud POS with Wi-Q, a leading mobile ordering platform for the hospitality industry. The integration facilitates a smooth and unified experience for both guests and hotel operators, significantly simplifying the ordering process and optimizing menu management. With the robust open API capability t...
Hilton Reports Second Quarter Results
Hilton | August 7, 2024
MCLEAN, VA - Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. ("Hilton," "the Company," "we," "us" or "our") (NYSE: HLT) today reported its second quarter 2024 results. Highlights include: Diluted EPS was $1.67 for the second quarter, and diluted EPS, adjusted for special items, was $1.91 Net income was $422 million for the second quarter Adjusted EBITDA was $917 million for the second quarter System-wide comparable RevPAR increased 3.5 percent, on a currency neutral basis, for the second quarter compared to the same period in 2023 Approved 62,700 new rooms for development during the second quarter, bringing our development pipeline to a recor...
Madrid Market Pulse 2024 – Smashing the Rate Ceiling
Cassandre Pene | August 7, 2024
As the capital of Spain, Madrid holds a prominent position as a cultural, economic and political hub in Europe. Its rich history, vibrant arts scene, world-renowned culinary offerings as well as its many corporate head offices and financial institutions attract a diverse range of visitors, including both leisure travellers and business professionals. Additionally, Madrid's strategic location within Spain and its well-connected transportation infrastructure, including its international airport and high-speed rail services, facilitate easy access for both domestic and international travellers. The city's tourism sector, which was heavily impact...
Learning a Bit About Integrated Welltech
Adam and Larry Mogelonsky | August 7, 2024
By Adam and Larry Mogelonsky At HITEC 2024 this past June, one of us (Adam) gave a presentation on wellness technologies (‘welltech’), how they can help hotel organizations grow their businesses and how IT directors are instrumental in making this all happen through effective team management and merchandizing. One important step for all hoteliers is to first learn a bit about wellness and how the body works in order to know what’s right for your brand. For hotel technologists, our everyday jargon is the PMS, CRS, POS, IBE, CRM, BI, AI, ML, PCI, as well as financial KPIs to monitor like GOPPAR, GSS or CPOR. But there’s a whole other ...
Navigating the Complex World of Conversational AI – Part 3
Travel Outlook, the premier hotel call center™ | August 7, 2024
Elevating Hotel Operations with Conversational AI By John Smallwood, President of Travel Outlook August 2024 Recently, we explored how conversational AI, particularly Annette the Virtual Agent™, enhances guest experiences by understanding complex requests, personalizing interactions, and providing multilingual support. In the third part of our series, we will explore Annette's ability to handle a multitude of frequently asked questions (FAQs), route calls to internal departments, and seamlessly transition guests to live agents when needed. Dive in below as we explore the advanced capabilities of Annette, and how she helps your hotel...
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island Completes First Phase of Multimillion-Dollar Renovation
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island | August 7, 2024
ibbon-Cutting Celebration Marks Completion of Phase One of Resort’s Multi-Million-Dollar Transformation; All 340 Guestrooms Now Fully Refreshed, with Stylish Upgrades HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC. – (August 7, 2024) – Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island recently completed phase one of a comprehensive resort renovation program, unveiling its 340 redesigned guestrooms during a July 9th “Find the Light”-themed ribbon-cutting celebration. Inspired by the island’s natural beauty, guestrooms now feature several stylish upgrades and enhancements, serving as a serene backdrop for a breathtaking island escape. "We are thrilled to officially u...
Park Hyatt New York To Launch Multimillion-Dollar Renovation
Park Hyatt New York | August 7, 2024
NEW YORK (August 7, 2024) — Celebrating a decade of unparalleled luxury, Park Hyatt New York is set to undergo a series of enhancements, reinforcing its status as a leading hotel destination on New York City’s exclusive Billionaire’s Row. The multi-million-dollar investment will inaugurate the opulent 3,500-square-foot “Manhattan Suite” on the top floor of the 25-story hotel, introduce the signature Rossano Ferretti salon and Spa Nalai in their new locations, and bring upgrades to the hotel’s premier specialty suites. “We are thrilled to unveil this remarkable transformation as we celebrate our 10th anniversary,” said Laure...
Cordish Gaming Group Names Joshua Robinson as Vice President of Marketing for New $270+ Million Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana
The Cordish Companies | August 7, 2024
Robinson to Lead Strategic Marketing Efforts for the World-Class Gaming and Entertainment Destination Set to Open in Q1 2025 with First Land-Based Casino in the Shreveport-Bossier Market Bossier City, LA (August 7, 2024) – Cordish Gaming Group, the gaming division of The Cordish Companies, has named JOSHUA ROBINSON as Vice President of Marketing for the new Live! Casino & Hotel Louisiana. This $270+ million world-class gaming, dining, hotel and entertainment destination is set to debut in Bossier City in Q1 2025, featuring the first land-based casino in the Shreveport-Bossier market. As Vice President of Marketing, Mr. Robinson w...
Hotel Haya Appoints Kal Harris as New Director of Food and Beverage
Hotel Haya | August 7, 2024
TAMPA, Fla. (Aug. 7, 2024) - Hotel Haya, Aparium Hotel Group’s award-winning property located in the heart of Ybor City is pleased to announce the appointment of Kal Harris to Director of Food and Beverage. With over a decade of experience under his belt, the New York-native will bring a new perspective to Flor Fina, Hotel Haya’s upscale Latin-infused restaurant and Cafe Quiquiriqui, the hotel’s café and casual lunch spot. Harris began his hospitality journey at the age of 15 years old in Buffalo, New York. After three years, Harris was completely enamored with the food and beverage industry and progressed to manager at a small re...
AREV St Tropez Appoints Candice Barwell Nassar as General Manager
AREV St Tropez | August 7, 2024
The brand new boutique hotel in St Tropez - AREV St Tropez - is delighted to announce the appointment of Candice Barwell Nassar as General Manager. Candice joins AREV St Tropez with over 30 years of experience in luxury hospitality, having started her career at 17 years old. Most recently, Candice held the position of Director of Operations at Hotel du Palais Biarritz (Unbound Collection by Hyatt), where she expertly oversaw the daily operations of the hotel including front desk, housekeeping, reservations, and guest services, ensuring seamless coordination and delivery of high-end hospitality. She has previously held positions as Directo...
In Canada, Lodging Econometrics Reports a 54% Increase in Projects Under Construction at Q2 2024
Lodging Econometrics ( | August 7, 2024
August 7, 2024 – PORTSMOUTH, NH The Q2 2024 Canada Hotel Construction Pipeline Trend Report from Lodging Econometrics (LE) reveals that at the close of the quarter, there are 322 projects/40,297 rooms in the country’s total pipeline. These record-high project and room counts represent a 17% increase in projects and an 8% increase in rooms year-over-year (YOY). There continues to be a swell of projects under construction in Canada, up an impressive 54% by projects and 51% by rooms YOY, with 80 projects/10,603 rooms at the Q2 close. Projects scheduled to start construction in the next 12 months, at Q2, stand at 80 projects/9,249 rooms...
HFTP Seeks Input for 2024 Compensation and Benefits Report: Survey Available
HFTP | August 6, 2024
For 30+ years, HFTP has produced its biennial Compensation and Benefits Survey Report, whichprovides a comprehensive picture of industry salary and benefits statistics for hospitality accounting, finance and technology professionals. The report helps hospitality managers determine pay scales, benefits and rewards for their employees and themselves. This survey has returned in 2024, and HFTP requests your participation to ensure we produce the most valuable report for our members and industry stakeholders. We rely on feedback from hospitality professionals like you to develop the most accurate statistics on current salary, deferred compen...
