International News

International News

AURORA: THE LUXURY SPACE HOTEL WILL ORBIT EARTH BY 2021

Hotel News - The Orion Span start-up has unveiled images of Aurora Station, its future space station designed to accommodate tourists from 2022 onwards, with the launch of the station programmed for 2021. It promises and incredible experience to its future customers. On the menu: 12 days of an unusual vacation at an altitude of about 320 kilometers. The program of activities includes the observation of 16 sunrises and sunsets in one day, flying over the hometown of travelers, games of ping-pong in the state of weightlessness. Guests will also be able to take part in experiments like growing food while in orbit. They will be able to take samples home as a “souvenir”. In order to be eligible for this stay, however, guests will have to undergo a specific training. But its duration, which is usually two years for a trip in space, has been shortened to three months for the Aurora Station. Orion Space has, therefore, opted for luxurious services, in order to differentiate itself from the competition. Because the start-up faces rivals who also seek to offer space tourism, such as the Texas company Axiom Space or Virgin Galactic, founded by billionaire Richard Branson. To support itself, Orion Space launched a crowdfunding campaign that raised about $230 thousand as of now. The goal of Orion Space is to “make space accessible to all”. However, by “accessible to all”, one should understand “all very wealthy clients”. Indeed, as the price of a 12-day stay in the Aurora Station space hotel is expected to be 9.5 million dollars.

Create: Jan 30, 2019 Edit: Feb 13, 2019

Worldwide Hotels Group Wins Club Street Hotel Site Bid with SGD562 Million in Singapore

Hotel News - Singapore-based hotel owner and operator, Worldwide Hotels Group (“Worldwide Hotels”), has acquired a 99-year leasehold hotel site along Club Street in Singapore’s Central Business District. The bid of SGD562.2 million (SGD2,148.50 per square foot per plot ratio) was made through Worldwide Hotels’ subsidiary, Midtown Development, and is a record price for a 99-year leasehold land at a state tender. The bid was also 22% higher than the hotel site sale at the Singtel site on Hill Street in February 2018. With an expected investment of more than SGD700 million, Worldwide Hotels envisages a four-star property that will become the group’s landmark hotel. Worldwide Hotels currently owns and manages six hotel brands in Singapore.

Create: Jan 30, 2019 Edit: Feb 13, 2019

Central, Eastern Europe to get 242 new hotels in coming years

Hotel News - The coming years will be eventful in Central and Eastern Europe, with a host of new hotel projects in the pipeline, according to the TOPHOTELCONSTRUCTION database. The region, which includes countries such as Lithuania, Romania, Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Albania and Macedonia, will see substantial investment over the course of the next few years, which will result in a total of 242 new hotel projects across the region, Schmidt said. This will bring an additional key count of 49,583 guest rooms to the region, with the projects being split between luxury (98) and first-class (144) categories. The lion’s share of the projects (88) are set to open this year, while 58 will welcome guests in 2020, 32 in 2021, five in 2022, and 59 from 2023 onwards. Currently, a hefty percentage of the projects (44%) are in the planning stage, with 38% under construction and 10% in the pre-opening stages. Hilton, Radisson and Holiday Inn are the biggest brands to feature in CEE, with Radisson Blu and Red, as well as Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express set to be some of the biggest hitters in the region. Austria, Poland and Croatia will see some of the highest volumes of hotel openings. There are 68 projects planned for Austria, with 22 openings in 2019 mostly situated in the capital Vienna. Poland will welcome 53 projects to give a total key count of 9,719, with 21 opening this year. Croatia will benefit from 25 hotel projects, bringing 9,842 additional rooms to the country, with six projects welcoming guests in 2019. Germany and Russia will also see significant investment in the coming years, with 373 new projects in the German pipeline and 77 in the works in Russia.

Create: Jan 29, 2019 Edit: Jan 30, 2019

Hilton Opens Flagship Property in Da Nang

Hotel News - US-based hotel franchiser and hotel management company, Hilton Hotels & Resorts (“Hilton”) has debuted in Da Nang with the opening of 223-key Hilton Da Nang, Vietnam. The property is conveniently located near the Han Bridge and Bach Dang street with access to Da Nang’s main entertainment, shopping and business facilities. The hotel is accessible via a 10-minute drive from Da Nang International Airport and 5-minute drive from Da Nang Beach. The hotel offers rooms and suites ranging from 36 square meters to 202 square meters and a lounge on the 27th floor serving breakfast and drinks. In addition, the property features an all-day dining restaurant, a cafe, a rooftop grill bar, 725 square meters of meeting space, a 24-hour gym and a heated outdoor swimming pool. The new opening represents Hilton third property in Vietnam after Hilton Hanoi Opera and Hilton Garden Inn Hanoi.

Create: Jan 28, 2019 Edit: Feb 4, 2019

Park Hotel Group Debuts in Seoul

Hotel News - Singapore-based hotel owner and operator, Park Hotel Group (“Park Hotel”), has opened its first property in Seoul, South Korea. The newly built Park Hotel Yeongdeungpo, is owned by South Korea-based firm K2 Group (“K2 Group”) and will be managed by Park Hotel. Located in the Yeongdeungpo district, the 14-storey hotel is next to Seonyudo Station, a 10-minute drive to the Yeouido financial hub, and a 50-minute and 25-minute drive from Incheon International Airport and Gimpo International Airport respectively. The 140-key property features five room categories, all with floor-to-ceiling windows or balconies with panoramic views of the city skyline or the Hangang River. It also offers a 24-hour fitness room, a business centre, a meeting room, a banquet hall, and three restaurants. Park Hotel currently manages 15 properties across eight countries including Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Maldives and Singapore.

Create: Jan 26, 2019 Edit: Jan 28, 2019

Accor’s innovative new mobile offering in the French Alps

Hotel News - AccorHotels has launched a new concept for accommodation in the Alps. Avoriaz 1800 is a collection of containers decked out in timber that are designed to have as little impact on the landscape as possible and to provide flexible and mobile lodgings for the ski resort. We find out more. FLYING NEST LANDS IN THE ALPS French hotel group Accor has been testing a new concept hotel over the past year at events such as LeMans and the Bordeaux Architecture Biennale, which now, for the first time, will be open for the public to experience. The experiment involves the erection of mobile lodgings, which can be shipped in for conferences, events and now for ski seasons, as required. The concept is called Flying Nest, and features a number of shipping containers that have been given a custom overhaul by renowned designer Ora-ïto, who is based in Marseilles. Flying Nest was conceived of as a form of nomadic architecture which can be transported and installed in various destinations as necessary. But, far from compromising on comfort, the thoughtful design of the containers brings a cosy and comfortable offering to wherever it lands. The latest location of Flying Nest is in the Alpine ski resort of Avoriaz. DESIGN AND VISION Damien Perrot, AccorHotels’ Global SVP Design Multibrand, says Flying Nest is a visionary concept which will gives wings to the future of the industry. “We worked on creating an immersive experience more than just a room.” The idea behind the concept, as well as being mobile, is that the arrangement of containers will have as little impact on their surroundings as possible, enabling them to be installed in areas that are of significant natural beauty and that need to be protected. This also allows guest to have a great connection with the destination, and in the case of Avoriaz, skiers can just step out of the container directly onto the mountain and its slopes. The containers come equipped with individual decks, and are connected to each other by walkways and platforms, allowing guests to mingle with each other as they act as social spaces. The containers have one entire side that is made of glass, giving guests incredible views out towards their environment. Approximately 20 units were installed in the French ski resort, which are propped up on piles that sit into the ground with minimal disruption.

Create: Jan 21, 2019 Edit: Jan 23, 2019

Wynn Resorts sues Resorts World Las Vegas over “similar design”

Hotel News - Wynn Resorts has filed a five-count trademark infringement and unfair competition lawsuit against Resorts World Las Vegas LLC. The cause of the suit is the Resorts World property that is currently under construction on the Las Vegas Strip. The $4 billion, 3,000-room resort is expected to open in late 2020. Local news reports say that the suit alleges that this property’s design looks a little too similar to the nearby Wynn Las Vegas and Encore buildings. The 17-page lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court of Nevada last month claims the designs have already confused some people and that they have the potential to mislead customers into thinking that the two properties are affiliated with each other. The complaint also has Wynn Resorts claiming that Resorts World’s design scheme uses Wynn’s registered architectural design, which consists of a three-dimensional building that features a concave facade, curved bronze glass, and horizontal banding above and between the lines of its glass panes. In addition, the design of the new Resorts World Las Vegas is said to be confusingly similar to the plaintiff’s architectural trade dress and copyrighted architectural work. “The architectural design embodied in defendant’s Resorts World Las Vegas hotel and casino is substantially similar to plaintiff’s registered copyrighted architectural work, and therefore defendant is violating plaintiff’s copyrights in addition to plaintiff’s registered and common law trade dress,” the lawsuit says. The new property is directly across the street, and as such is likely to confuse or even deceive the public, according to the lawsuit. In summation, the five counts of the suit list federal trade dress infringement, unfair competition, federal trademark dilution, state trademark dilution, and copyright infringement. The Wynn Las Vegas first opened back in 2005, followed by Encore in 2008. The Resorts World property is slated to open some time in 2020.

Create: Jan 20, 2019 Edit: Jan 20, 2019

Best Western Hotels Resorts Signs New Seafront Resort in Hua Hin, Thailand

Hotel News - Best Western Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of a new seafront property in the popular resort town of Hua Hin, on Thailand's gulf coast. Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Khao Tao will feature 410 guest rooms and an array of leisure amenities for all types of guest, including couples and families. Located close to the beach just south of Hua Hin town center and 2.5 hours' drive from Bangkok, this contemporary resort will provide the perfect destination for locals, expats and international travelers seeking a revitalizing break from the city. The centerpiece of this elegant resort will be a series of freeform lagoon pools, slides, waterfalls and a special children's water play zone, all surrounded by tropical palm trees, sun decks and cozy cabanas. Every room features modern amenities and a balcony overlooking these aquatic attractions, while a series of spacious ground floor rooms offer terraces with direct access to the pools. A sunken pool bar creates an ideal spot to enjoy a cooling daytime drink, while the Beach Bar allows guests to chill out with refreshing drinks and gaze out over the glistening Gulf of Thailand. The hotel also features a restaurant serving breakfast and all-day Thai and international cuisine, a daytime coffee shop and a modern fitness center, and onsite parking will be available. Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Khao Tao is owned by One Place Estate Co., Ltd. The signing ceremony was held on December 17, 2018, and attended by Mr Pongpipat Kanjanasupat (4th right), Mr Suvichai Janethanaarthakij (4th left), CEOs of One Place Estate, and Olivier Berrivin (3rd right), Managing Director of International Operations - Asia, Best Western Hotels & Resorts. "Hua Hin has transformed from a charming coastal town into a thriving international tourism destination that now attracts millions of visitors every year. Newly connected with international flights, it now possesses a wide range of attractions including world-class golf courses, wineries, restaurants and enchanting cultural sites. Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Khao Tao will allow guests to experience the best of this impressive destination in comfort and style, with spacious accommodation and fantastic facilities, most notably its exotic outdoor pools," commented Olivier Berrivin. "Whether guests are seeking a romantic beachfront retreat, a memorable family vacation or a fun-filled getaway for a group of friends, this new resort has something for everyone. We look forward to working with our esteemed partners at One Place Estate as we bring this exciting project to life," he added

Create: Jan 20, 2019 Edit: Jan 20, 2019

Portugal's Lenha Longa Hotel & Golf Resort Sold

Hotel News - Lenha Longa Hotel & Golf Resort - Aerial view Portugal's Lenha Longa Hotel & Golf Resort Sold CBRE has advised the Carlyle Group on the acquisition of Penha Longa Hotel & Golf Resort, in Sintra, Portugal. Penha Longa Hotel & Golf Resort, part of Quinta da Penha Longa, in Sintra, is one of the most iconic resorts in Portugal, with 194 rooms, a spa and a wellness centre, and more than 3,000 m2 conference and meeting facilities. The resort features a golf course, highlighted as one of the top 30 best golf courses in Europe, designed by the renowned course designer Robert Trent Jones Jr. In addition to extensive meeting, sporting and leisure facilities, in 2018 Penha Longa became the first hotel in Portugal to have two restaurants awarded Michelin stars. The resort will continue to be managed by Ritz-Carlton, a Marriot Group company, who has run the resort since December 2003. Duarte Morais Santos, Senior Consultant at CBRE Hotels, commented: "Tourism continues to be one of the great drivers of the Portuguese economy, constantly setting new records when it comes to the occupation rate. This transaction shows the great work CBRE Hotels has been developing, and we are very proud to have been an active part in the transaction of this resort." Peter Stoll, Managing Director for Carlyle European Realty advisory team said: "Penha Longa is one of the best-known and most-established hotels in Portugal, and the hospitality sector in the country is experiencing a strong demand from both leisure and corporate travellers. We are excited to be partnering with Explorer Investments to develop the full potential of the resort."

Create: Jan 19, 2019 Edit: Jan 20, 2019

Melia opens it's fourth hotel in Cuba

Hotel News—the fourth Paradisus hotel in the Meliá Hotels International chain in Cuba and the first in Cayo Santa María—opened its doors on 8 December. This eco resort is set in a unique natural environment. Cayo Santa María is surrounded by the Buenavista Biosphere Reserve, which boasts the second most important coral reef on the planet. Elegant, sophisticated and modern, Paradisus Los Cayos defines the essence of an all-inclusive natural luxury experience. Overlooking a fine-sand beach stretching for nearly half a mile and bathed by turquoise waters in one of the most unspoilt spots in the key, the establishment blends harmoniously with the nature surrounding it. Paradisus Los Cayos offers 802 Suites and Junior Suites. A large hotel where the architecture and interior design ensure guests can relax in an exclusive private setting. One aspect that sets this eco resort apart from the rest is its 34 swimming pools. Guests can go for a refreshing dip directly from their Garden Swim-Up rooms. The hotel provides two exclusive areas: The Reserve and Royal Service. Designed for guests seeking personalised attention, The Reserve is suitable for lone travellers or families as it offers the Family Concierge service. The Reserve guests can also enjoy areas and amenities especially designed for the most exacting tastes. If you prefer a luxury adult-only experience, Paradisus Los Cayos has a Royal Service area. Besides exclusive access to hotel bars, the lobby and swimming pools, other highlights include an exceptional butler service. The variety and quality of the food is another differentiating factor. With 12 restaurants and 14 bars to choose from, guests can enjoy a huge variety of tastes and textures. They range from Mediterranean dishes to Latin fusion and include the exotic flavours of Asia, signature cuisine and traditional Cuban fare. Guests can also enjoy diverse bar locations and interiors designed to cater for all tastes. Sipping a drink on the beach or gazing at the sunset while savouring a cocktail specially prepared by Cuban cocktail experts are two of the options available for travellers staying at Paradisus Los Cayos. The facilities for the MICE segment will turn this hotel and Cayo Santa María into a new hub for major events. The establishment provides 959 m² for meetings, with a large ballroom (910 m²) that can hold 910 people in a theatre format and 500 in banquet style. There are also alternative locations: beaches, swimming pools, gardens or terraces. Paradisus Los Cayos is destined to become the company’s flagship in Cayos del Norte de Villa Clara. The hotel’s special features and surrounding natural environment make it a unique place for discovering enchanting landscapes and experiencing memorable moments in this Cuban paradise.

Create: Jan 13, 2019 Edit: Jan 19, 2019

Hampton by Hilton Blackburn Hotel to Open 2020 in the U.K.

Hotel News - Hilton has signed a franchise agreement with Monte Hospitality Limited to bring a 150-guest room Hampton by Hilton to Frontier Park, one of Lancashire's largest commercial developments, situated at Junction 6 of the M65 motorway. Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, EMEA, Hilton said: "Visitor numbers to Lancashire have grown for a sixth consecutive year and projects such as Frontier Park will further enhance the commercial appeal of the county. Hampton by Hilton Blackburn will be the town's first internationally branded hotel and we look forward to welcoming guests when the property opens in 2020." The hotel forms part of Monte Hospitality Limited's business strategy to attract international brands to invest in Lancashire. Upon completion, the £100 million Frontier Park development will include nearly one million square feet of industrial and warehouse accommodations, motorway services and a 1,400-delegate capacity conference and events centre. Irfan Ali, director, Monte Hospitality Limited said: "Hampton by Hilton Blackburn will be our first branded hotel development and we are proud to be partnering with this market-leading hotel operator. Lancashire is in need of an internationally recognised hotel and this project will meet the growing demand for quality accommodations in the area."

Create: Jan 12, 2019 Edit: Jan 13, 2019

Choice Hotels launches Book on Google

Hotel News - In a few clicks, Choice Hotels’ customers can now complete a reservation online on Google using their saved Google credentials. Choice Hotels International, Inc. CHH, +0.59% is making booking a hotel room directly at its hotel brand properties easier than ever. By enabling Book on Google, Choice Hotels has made it possible for travelers to seamlessly search, select, and reserve hotel rooms at Choice properties. Unlike booking a hotel room through other third-party sites, the Book on Google reservation is handled by Choice Hotels. This includes receiving a confirmation from Choice Hotels that allows guests to manage reservations directly with the hotel. Guests can also enjoy many of the benefits of the award-winning Choice Privileges loyalty program by adding their Choice Privileges membership number once they receive their confirmation. "We launched Book on Google to help ease friction in the travel booking process. This feature makes it easier for users to book seamlessly online and helps to minimize drop off. We're excited to have Choice Hotels join us and help to create a seamless booking process for users," said Andrew Silverman, Product Management Director, Google.

Create: Jan 12, 2019 Edit: Jan 13, 2019