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Industry Happenings
Origin Property Public Company Limited to Bring IHG’s Staybridge Suites to Asia Pacific
IHG | December 14, 2017
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®), one of the world's leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement with Origin Property Public Company Limited to bring Staybridge Suites to Asia Pacific. The all-suite extended stay brand will launch in Thailand – Staybridge Suites Bangkok Thonglor in 2019, in association with Nomura Real Estate Development Company Limited and Staybridge Suites Chonburi Siracha in 2020. Joining Staybridge Suites' 250 worldwide properties, both new hotels will offer the brand's hallmark warm and residential environment for extended stay guests. Travellers can look forward to homely and comforta...
Say Hello to Intelity’s New ‘Voice Request’
Intelity | December 14, 2017
Amazon's Alexa enhances the guest experience by giving guests immediate access to room controls, hotel services, restaurant information and more. [Orlando, Fla. – December 14, 2017] — Intelity is unveiling yet another tool designed to enhance guest experiences. Intelity Voice Request is a product that leverages Amazon's Alexa to give guests immediate access to room controls, hotel services, restaurant information and more. The hands-free device, powered by the cloud-based digital assistant, enables guests to speak to their room with voice-activated commands. "Voice Request acts as a personal butler for each guest," s...
VR or AR? Will the Hotel Industry Really Cozy Up to Either One?
Andrew Sanders | December 14, 2017
By Andrew Sanders Virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR)? This is the question. The hotel and travel industry is at a pivotal time regarding technological innovation and how it may impact the future. Do travelers want an immersive experience that they can enjoy from their living room? Alternatively, do they want to be educated and informed while on vacation? While AR and VR have a lot in common, they could also lead us down totally different paths. Augmented reality is a synthetic, computer simulated reality or recreation of a real-time environment where a user can interact with the replicated real environments, whereas virtual ...
Consolidation in Hotel Sector Likely as Operators Face Challenging Trading Year Ahead
HVS | December 14, 2017
14 December 2017, London: The New Year is likely to be a challenging one for the UK's hotel operators with flat occupancy levels and increasing overheads, despite positive global and EU economic growth. UK hotels' average room rates should see modest growth, however. Looking ahead to 2018 leading hotel consultant Russell Kett, chairman of HVS London, warns that the combination of wages going up, staff shortages, increasing food and utility costs, and the impact of higher property taxes and business rates as well as a strong pipeline of new hotels will put pressure on UK hotels' operating margins over the next 12 months. However, despite...
Why Customer Experience Is (Rightly) Such a Hot Topic in Travel
MyTravelResearch.com | December 14, 2017
Companies that anticipate and deliver what travellers want, when they want it, are more likely to command loyalty – and profits By Carolyn Childs Why is customer experience such a hot topic and buzz phrase in the travel industry (and others)? Answer: because in the age of the experience economy the quality of customer interactions at each stage of the path to purchase builds customer loyalty and advocacy. Both are closely aligned to profits. The reality is, big data and technology have enabled brands to understand us better – often better than we understand ourselves (I sometimes joke that Google knows me better than my part...
GuestCentric and Duetto Partner to Bring Personalization to Hotel Bookings
GuestCentric | December 14, 2017
Booking Engine Provider and Revenue Strategy Platform Pioneer Real-Time, Contextualized Pricing and Merchandising with Playmaker, Duetto's New Personalization Application New York, December 14, 2017 — Duetto, hospitality's only Revenue Strategy Platform, and GuestCentric have partnered to bring a new level of personalization to the hotel and casino industries that will increase conversion and direct bookings. The companies' strategic partnership will enable hotel companies using Duetto's recently launched personalization application, PlayMaker, and GuestCentric's global booking engine the breakthrough ability to customize merchand...
Owned and Operated by High Hotels, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Opens in Center Valley, Pennsylvania
SpringHill Suites by Marriott | December 14, 2017
Center Valley, PA – December 15, 2017 – Marriott International announced that the SpringHill Suites by Marriott in Center Valley, Pennsylvania is scheduled to open today. The 132-suite hotel, located at 3800 West Drive, will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned and operated by High Hotels Ltd. of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The SpringHill Suites Allentown Bethlehem/Center Valley is located 10 minutes from downtown Allentown and 11 miles from the Lehigh Valley International Airport. The hotel is located in the center of the Lehigh Valley, at the intersection of I-78 and Route 309, the gateway to the Stabler Corporate Center an...
Record In-Room Dining Results at Crown Towers Perth Following Recent Telstra and McLaren Technologies Update
McLaren Technologies Asia Pacific Pte Ltd | December 13, 2017
Western Australia's most luxurious and largest hotel, Crown Towers Perth, is recording unprecedented in-room food and beverage orders thanks to a recent technology update and new guest app, driving its in-room dining menu. Following McLaren and Telstra's technology install, the 500 room hotel has recorded more than 2,000 in-room dining orders per month through its new hotel guest app and devices. Increased dining figures are just one of the many benefits the hotel is experiencing following the conclusion of the guestroom tech update conducted by hospitality solution specialist, McLaren Technologies, in partnership with Telstra. "Crown T...
General Manager Daniela Sirec Welcomes Guests to New SpringHill Suites by Marriott in Augusta, Georgia
SpringHill Suites by Marriott | December 13, 2017
Augusta, Georgia – December 15, 2017 – Marriott International announced today that the SpringHill Suites by Marriott in Augusta, Georgia is scheduled to open this Thursday, December 14, 2017. The 88-suite hotel, located at 1110 Marks Church Road, will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned by Augusta Lodging, LLC and managed by PeachState Hospitality LLC of Warner Robins, Georgia. SpringHill Suites Augusta is located just 12 miles from Augusta Regional Airport, and 15 minutes from downtown. The hotel offers guests convenient access to Fort Gordon, Augusta Riverwalk, Sacred Heart Cultural Center and the Augusta National Golf ...
Auro Hotels Opens New Towne Place Suites by Marriott Charleston Airport/Convention Center in South Carolina
TownePlace Suites by Marriott | December 13, 2017
Charleston, SC – December 15, 2017 – Get ready to be real and be you on long stays. Marriott International's TownePlace Suites by Marriott Charleston Airport/Convention Center opened for business on Friday, December 8, 2017. On average, a TownePlace Suites opens every six days. Built for travelers looking for a simple and friendly place where they can settle-in, keep their routine, and easily connect to the Charleston area. The new extended-stay hotel located at 5001 Fashion Avenue, continues to exemplify the brand's rapid growth. The new hotel will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned and managed by Auro Hotels of Gre...
IHG Signs with Cornerstone Partners Group for Kimpton Taipei Marking Brand First in Taiwan
December 13, 2017
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, U.S.A. (December 13, 2017) - IHG® (InterContinental Hotels Group), one of the world's leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of the Kimpton Taipei with Malaysia's Cornerstone Partners Group. Scheduled to open next year, this will be the first Kimpton hotel in Taiwan. Nestled in central Taipei, the 14-story property features 129 guest rooms and suites, and a 12th-floor rooftop deck. The design will reflect the hustle and bustle of the city, with a seamless integration of urban features and soft greenery. In addition, the hotel's restaurants and bars will be designed exclusively by Hong Kong-based JIA Gr...
Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts Rebrands 24-Hotel Portfolio
Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts | December 13, 2017
Brand's properties in Dominican Republic, Mexico, Jamaica and Spain will be classified into four categories and segmented by experience MIAMI, Fla. (December 13, 2017) – Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts – the leader in all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, is reorganizing its 24-hotel portfolio, reclassifying properties into four categories and segmented experiences. The new categories and segments will ultimately simplify the process for consumers to identify which hotel will best fulfill their vacation goals and allow them to experience happiness. The four hotel categories include Luxury Bahia Principe, including th...
Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group Expands Radisson RED Into Peru with a Signing in Miraflores
Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group | December 13, 2017
MINNEAPOLIS - December 13, 2017 - Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, one of the world's largest and most dynamic hotel groups, today announced the signing of a new Radisson RED in Miraflores, Peru. The new-build hotel will offer 110 rooms and is expected to break ground early 2018 with plans to open mid-2019. Radisson RED Miraflores will be located between Calle Bolivar and Calle Alcanflores in the heart of Miraflores, a district of the Lima Province, which is known for its upscale shopping and beautiful coastline. "We are thrilled to announce our first Radisson RED in Peru and further expand the brand in Latin America," said Ken Greene, pres...
American Express Travel Reveals Emerging Trends and Top Ten Destinations for 2018
American Express Travel | December 13, 2017
NEW YORK--December 13, 2017--According to a new survey conducted for American Express Travel, travelers in the United States are focused on pursuing their personal passions through the lens of travel. "For 2018, we see U.S. travelers expanding personal and global boundaries when they travel. We noted an increased interest in cultural discovery, personal connections, inspiring destinations, and premium, rejuvenating travel experiences," says Tom Stein, VP of American Express Travel. INTERNATIONAL INTEREST: DISCOVERY OF FOREIGN CULTURES & HISTORY American Express Travel's international bookings for travel in the first quarter of 2018 ...
Healthy Eating Means Healthy Desserts Too
Larry Mogelonsky | December 13, 2017
By Larry Mogelonsky, MBA, P. Eng. (www.hotelmogel.com) We're a stone's throw away from 2018. People are drinking less alcohol, renouncing cigarettes, exercising more often and eating healthier. If you're smart, you'll get with the program. Many other articles, especially those under the purview of New Year's resolutions, will cover methods and choice tips by which to give your mains and appetizers the health kick they need to keep drawing in patrons with increasingly esoteric dietary restrictions. One nutritional piece of advice around this time of the year that can be quite damaging to our restaurants, however, is to cut out desserts e...
Customer Service & Sales: Be Authentic
Katie Scheer | December 13, 2017
By Katie Scheer Let's stop faking it. Deliver the customer service that you want to receive, and sell honestly in such a way that you would want to buy from you. Consumers today seek and crave authenticity since there's too much garbage always getting in the way of the truth and what's genuine. No more acting or saying what you think will give you the best end result. Instead, speak the truth and make yourself proud. Yes, this is your Oprah moment, and you too could become rich (if you aren't already). How do we do this in customer service and sales? Here are just a few simple ideas: 1. Deliver quality, even if it means ...
The Mansion on Main Street Welcomes Erin Crofchick as New Director of Sales
The Mansion on Main Street | December 13, 2017
VOORHEES, N.J., Dec. 13, 2017 -- The Mansion on Main Street, located in South New Jersey, happily welcomes Erin Crofchick to their award winning team as the new Director of Sales. Erin brings her outstanding leadership and expertise to the property's already exceptional reputation. As the premier event venue in Voorhees, New Jersey, The Mansion on Main Street prides itself on having an elite staff that delivers precision and ingenuity to produce unforgettable events. For the past year, Erin served as the Director of Catering & Event Management at The Westin Mount Laurel, where she won the hearts of clients and developed noteworthy r...
BENCHMARK Appoints Lorena Chappell Director of Sales and Marketing for Hotel Contessa, San Antonio, Texas
Hotel Contessa | December 13, 2017
The Woodlands (Houston), Texas, December 2017 … BENCHMARK®, a global hospitality company, has named Lorena Chappell director of sales and marketing for Hotel Contessa, a Benchmark Resorts & Hotels property located on the Riverwalk in historic San Antonio, Texas. Troy Mathews, general manager, made the announcement. "It is with great pleasure that I welcome Lorena to Benchmark and to our hotel," said Mr. Mathews. "She comes to us with vast knowledge of the Texas hotel market, and important leadership skills and experience in sales and marketing, which will be of great value to our property." Lorena Chappell was most r...
Paramount Lodging Advisors Breaks Ground On New Chicago Office
Paramount Lodging Advisors | December 13, 2017
CHICAGO, IL – Paramount Lodging Advisors (PLA), with the support of Midland States Bank is constructing its new company headquarters in the Old Town area of Chicago. PLA has partnered with Irpino Construction as the General Contractor to build the office. The building is projected to be complete by July of 2018. The new headquarters will be a sleek, three-story building equipped with a wide variety of innovative technology and accommodations. It will also tailor specifically to the needs of the PLA's Hotel Real Estate Advisory Practice - with unique gathering spaces and private offices. The third floor, uniquely will offer a stunn...
Euro Capital Properties Appoints Ernie Arias as Senior Vice President of Sales and Business Development at The Watergate Hotel, Washington, D.C.
Euro Capital Properties | December 13, 2017
Washington D.C. (December 13, 2017) – International New York-based real estate developer, Euro Capital Properties is pleased to announce the hiring of Ernie A. Arias as their Senior Vice President of Sales and Business Development. In this role, Arias will be responsible for the hotel's sales strategy and business development, as well as managing and expanding the sales force at The Watergate Hotel and Euro Capital Properties' New York sales team. "Arias' past professional experiences at luxury hotel properties makes him an ideal fit for The Watergate Hotel," said Jeff David, Managing Director, The Watergate Hotel. "We look forwar...
Dream Hotel Group Appoints Hans Luther as General Manager, Unscripted Durham
Unscripted Hotels | December 13, 2017
DURHAM, NC (December 13, 2017) – Renowned hotel brand and management company Dream Hotel Group appoints Hans Luther as General Manager for Unscripted Durham, the first location for its newest lifestyle brand and hospitality concept Unscripted Hotels. With nearly 15 years of experience in demanding environments, including the launch of two premier lifestyle hotels in Las Vegas and New York, Luther is a proven leader in driving new hotels to top- notch performance. His strategic vision, business acumen and passionate energy will be integral in the continued success of Unscripted Durham following its opening earlier this year. "Hans ...
Commonwealth Hotels Appoints Phil Klaus General Manager at Courtyard Cincinnati Airport
Commonwealth Hotels, LLC | December 13, 2017
COVINGTON, Ky., Dec. 13, 2017 -- Commonwealth Hotels is pleased to announce the appointment of Phil Klaus to the position of general manager at Courtyard Cincinnati Airport. In his role as general manager, Klaus will oversee hotel operations, sales, and community and guest relations – focusing his efforts on driving revenue, controlling costs and ensuring guest and associate satisfaction. Klaus has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He has held various general management positions for hotel brands Hyatt, IHG and Best Western. Klaus has been with Commonwealth Hotels since 2008, when he served as opening genera...
Westgate Resorts Promotes Five Leaders to Senior Executive Positions
Westgate Resorts | December 13, 2017
Orlando, Fla. – Dec 13, 2017 – Following years of continued growth, Westgate Resorts has named a new Chief Business Officer, Senior Vice President of Resort Operations, Vice President of Resort Operations, Vice President of Community & Public Affairs and Vice President of Security. "As our business continues to thrive and expand, it is fitting that we promote those who have helped us grow into senior leadership positions," said President and CEO David Siegel. "These moves position Westgate Resorts for continued success for years to come." "I'm proud of the professional and personal growth that each of these individuals h...
IRAS Group Selects HP Hotels to Manage Best Western Plus Dania Beach, Florida
HP Hotels | December 13, 2017
Birmingham, Alabama, December 13, 2017 – HP Hotels, a full-service third-party hotel management company, announced today that it has been awarded the management contract for the 155-room Best Western Plus Dania Beach, FL. The property is owned by IRAS Group. Charles Oswald, President and Chief Operating Officer, made the announcement. The 155-room Best Western Plus hotel is adjacent to Interstate 95 and is close to the beautiful Florida Beaches, Port Everglades Cruise Terminals and the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport. The hotel's spacious rooms offer microwaves, refrigerators, plus 32 inch flat-screen TVs and free ...
