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International News

Increasing demand for international tourism in Türkiye

The tourism industry started 2024 reservations early. Tourism professionals say that demand from abroad is more intense than last year, and that prices will increase by 20 percent in foreign currency in 2024. The European market in the tourism sector will grow in the range of 10-15% in 2024, while the CIS market will remain the same, especially drawing attention to the growth in the UK market. It is estimated that travel will increase by 5-10% in 2024. Industry representatives are of the opinion that the European market will grow in the 10-15% range, while the CIS market will remain the same. President of the Mediterranean Touristic Hoteliers and Operators Association, stated that the first reservations came from the British market, and 50% of the sales were completed from the British market at the beginning of the new year.

Create: Jan 25, 2024 Edit: Jan 25, 2024

Radisson Hotel Group set a new record

Radisson Hotel Group completed 2023 with extraordinary growth, adding more than 30,000 rooms to its international portfolio of 10 leading brands with new openings and agreements. With these results, Radisson Hotel Group has grown its operations by 50% since 2018, when the transformation plan began. In 2023, Radisson Hotel Group broke a new record with the agreements and openings of more than 30,000 rooms added to its portfolio. Radisson Blu, the group's leading brand, continued to be Europe's largest upper segment brand for the 12th time in a row. Head of Global Development, Radisson Hotel Group, said: We are grateful to our friends. We expect 2024 to be a continuation of 2023 as inflation slows down and investors' interest in the sector continues.

Create: Jan 25, 2024 Edit: Jan 25, 2024

Summit Hotel Properties Completes Acquisition of NewcrestImage Portfolio

Today announced that it has completed an initial closing of the previously announced portfolio acquisition through its existing joint venture with GIC from affiliates of NewcrestImage. The initial closing included 26 of the 27 hotels totaling 3,533 guestrooms, two parking structures, and various financial incentives. The remaining hotel to be acquired is the currently under construction 176-guestroom Canopy by Hilton New Orleans which is nearing completion, and the joint venture expects to close on the acquisition of the hotel during the first quarter 2022 (collectively with the initial closing referred to as the “Transaction”). The total consideration for the Transaction is comprised of $776.5 million, or $209,000 per key, for the 27-hotel portfolio, $24.8 million for the two parking structures, and $20.7 million for the various financial incentives. The Transaction is expected to be immediately accretive to adjusted FFO per share, generate a stabilized net operating income yield of 8.0% to 8.5% including future capital investment and excluding any ancillary joint venture fees earned by Summit, and be leverage neutral to the Company’s balance sheet while preserving existing liquidity of nearly $450 million.

Create: Jan 15, 2022 Edit: Jan 15, 2022

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Enters Poland With Upscale Hotel in the Heart of the Historic City of Wroclaw

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 9,000 hotels across nearly 95 countries, continues to expand its global footprint with its entry into Poland with the 205-room upscale Wyndham Wroclaw Old Town. Managed by Mogotel Hotel Group, a leading hotel operator in the Baltics, the property is expected to open early next month and will be located in the heart of Wroclaw’s city center. One of the largest cities in Western Poland and home to many renowned universities and research centers, Wroclaw combines rich history and charming architecture with a lively cultural scene across its museums, theatres, art galleries and workshops. Perfectly positioned for exploring the central, picturesque Old Town with many attractions and landmarks, the hotel will feature stylish guest rooms, an expansive atrium and a top floor wellness area, with a state of the art fitness room, sauna and steam bath. The hotel will offer a wide range of food and beverage outlets including a gourmet restaurant, a cozy lounge and bar to relax and socialize. Those traveling for business will also have access the hotel’s 11 meeting rooms, which accommodate a total capacity of over 400 attendees. In addition, the hotel is conveniently located just 10 miles from Wroclaw’s International Copernicus Airport. Wyndham Wroclaw Old Town is the latest addition in Wyndham Hotels & Resorts growing portfolio in Europe, including over 350 operational hotels across 30 countries and a development pipeline of over 90 properties. Wyndham hotels in Poland and around the world participate in Wyndham Rewards, the world’s most generous hotel rewards program with more than 50,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals worldwide.

Create: Jan 11, 2022 Edit: Jan 11, 2022

World’s first hotel for camels in Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is home to the first hotel in the world to serve and comfort camels. The hotel, called Tatman, includes 120 hotel rooms that provide all services to camels, local media from the gulf country reported on Sunday. According to Arabic daily, English Al-Arabiya, more than 50 people serve in this hotel and they are divided between room services, care, attention, and protection as well. Tatman hotel, provides a 5-star service, including preparing meals for camels, taking care of the appearance and general appearance, in addition to providing hot milk, and making sure to clean and heat the rooms. “This hotel is the first of its kind in the world, but in a different and new style. Everything is available ranging from cleaning rooms to warm air-conditioning,” the official spokesman for the camel club in Saudi Arabia, Muhammad Al-Harbi said in a presentation video.

Create: Jan 11, 2022 Edit: Jan 13, 2022

Waymo plans fleet of self-driving, all-electric robotaxis with Chinese automaker Geely

Alphabet’s self-driving car company Waymo is partnering with Chinese automaker Geely to create a fleet of all-electric, self-driving robotaxis. The cars will be designed in Sweden (where Geely owns Swedish carmaker Volvo) and will be adapted from Geely’s all-electric five-door Zeekr. Waymo will then outfit the cars with the hardware and software necessary for autonomous driving. Waymo said in a blog post that it plans to deploy the vehicles in the US as part of its existing fleet of self-driving robotaxis some time “in the years to come.” Concept images of finished vehicle shared by Waymo show a car that is designed specifically for autonomous ride-hailing trips. It has a flat floor, low step-in height, and B-pillarless design for easy entry and exit, as well as sliding doors, reclining seats, and plenty of headroom. Waymo says future models will have an interior without steering wheel or pedals — just a screen (presumably to let riders check on the progress of their journey). These are just concept images, though, and might not necessarily reflect the finished vehicles Geely and Waymo will eventually put on the roads. It’s notable that Waymo’s concepts make the car look much more like a minivan, while Geely’s Zeekr 001 has a design that’s more like a cross between a station wagon, a shooting brake, and an SUV. News of the deal between Geely and Waymo is another demonstration of just how busy the auto world is with partnerships and collaborations as self-driving and electric tech shakes up old incumbents. Waymo has partnered with Stellantis and Jaguar Land Rover to deploy and develop its autonomous capabilities, while Geely plans to take Volvo public as an all-electric company, after doing the same with its new Polestar brand.

Create: Jan 2, 2022 Edit: Jan 2, 2022

Iran ready to dispatch skilled labor to Serbia

Iran's Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour, and Social Welfare has declared Tehran's readiness to dispatch Iranian skilled workforce to Serbia. Director General of the Ministry of Welfare and Social Security for international affairs Hamed Forouzan made the remark in a meeting with Serbian Ambassador to Tehran Dragan Todorović on Wednesday. Referring to long-term political and international relations between Serbia and Iran, Forouzan noted that a draft memorandum of understanding on job creation and vocational cooperation is being finalized and that another MoU on social security is being prepared, which would be inked hopefully concurrent with a visit by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić to Iran. The Iranian official also invited the Serbian ambassador to pay a visit to the Social Security Investment Company of Iran (SHASTA), adding that the meeting with the ambassador can help facilitate cooperation between Serbian and Iranian economic and trade groups. Forouzan underlined that the Islamic Republic of Iran expects Serbia to support Tehran in international organizations. Todorović, for his part, said that the joint meeting has been held to evaluate the current situation in order to pave the way for expansion of trade ties in different fields such as agriculture and tourism. Emphasizing on the need for facilitating issuance of visa for businessmen of both countries, the ambassador said that the main obstacle in the way of expansion of trade relationship is problems concerning banking transactions. He expressed hope that resolving political issues would pave the way for feasible trade and banking cooperation. Statistics indicate that trade ties between Serbia and Iran boosted in recent years, for instance the economic exchanges stood at 52.3 million dollars in 2018. Iran exported goods worth 42.4 million dollars to Serbia in that year and imported 9.8 million dollars from the European country in the same period.

Create: Jan 2, 2022 Edit: Jan 2, 2022

China’s red tourism gathers steam in 2021

Red tourism, which refers to visiting historical sites with a modern revolutionary legacy, became an increasingly popular choice for travelers in 2021, data from a recent report showed. The number of searches for "red tourism" on Mafengwo, a Chinese travel service and social-networking platform, increased by 176 percent this year from a year earlier, according to the report jointly published by Mafengwo and China Tourism Academy. According to Xinhua, red tourist destinations in north China's Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region have grown in popularity at the quickest rate nationwide, with the number of searches surging 240 percent year-on-year, the report said. Nearly 42 percent of respondents to a survey in the report said they visited red tourist sites more than three times this year, and over 40 percent of them went to such places "frequently" and "voluntarily" for sightseeing and knowledge. Red-themed homestay and live show are the favorite activities of tourists in 2021, with each of them accounting for nearly 20 percent of all activities in red tourism, according to the report.

Create: Jan 2, 2022 Edit: Jan 2, 2022

The Hyatt Centric Brand Debuts in the Middle East With Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the opening of Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai, marking the lifestyle brand’s debut in the Middle East. The seven-story property is set to become a social hub in the La Mer district, featuring 173 sophisticated guestrooms, including 27 spacious deluxe rooms and suites, designed to reflect the city through the playful juxtaposition of colours, textures and curated curiosities. Nestled in the heart of Dubai and bringing in a fresh take on the modern hospitality sector, Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai serves as an ideal launchpad for exploration for those looking to discover the city’s local hot spots and hidden gems. Conveniently located between old and new Dubai, guests have the opportunity to experience nearby attractions including Laguna Waterpark, the La Mer beachfront shopping and dining district, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall. For those seeking authentic, historical experiences, the nearby neighbourhoods of Satwa, Bur Dubai and Al Fahidi are home to traditional Arab marketplaces, known as souks, and the Etihad Museum. The hotel’s enticing dining outlets include thoughtfully designed and casual, relaxing spaces that boast an abundance of food and beverage experiences celebrating the region’s dynamic flavors. Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai’s all-day restaurant is certain to become a hot spot for locals and visitors alike, serving continental favourites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Shisha Lounge is a contemporary space for guests to unwind and savor a selection of hookah, while The Lobby Lounge is an open yet warm space that welcomes guests all day for bites and afternoon tea. Visitors can also lounge by the pool and enjoy refreshing drinks and light snacks from The Pool Bar. Hyatt Centric Jumeirah Dubai features multiple spaces for meetings, events and social gatherings with a boardroom that fits up to eight guests, large terraces ideal for social gatherings for up to 85 guests, and the exclusive rooftop bar that can be used for small group celebrations. The terrace suite is also the perfect venue for a New Year’s party, where guests can take in the spectacular views of the Burj Khalifa’s firework show. Additional amenities and services include a temperature-controlled outdoor pool along with a spa and 24-hour gym fitted with the latest equipment. Guests can also expect, laundry and dry-cleaning services, valet parking, multilingual staff, and a full-service concierge to ensure every need is met. The hotel also offers its guests a dedicated private beach area at La Mer North beach to relax and unwind.

Create: Dec 29, 2021 Edit: Dec 29, 2021

Hyatt Place Zurich Airport The Circle Hotel Celebrates Opening

Hyatt Place Zurich Airport The Circle, the third Hyatt-branded hotel and the first Hyatt Place branded hotel in Switzerland, is officially open, expanding the Hyatt Place brand’s footprint globally in markets that matter most to guests and World of Hyatt members. The new hotel features the Hyatt Place brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere and practical amenities, such as free Wi-Fi everywhere and 24-hour food offerings. Because Hyatt’s efforts are grounded in listening and fueled by care, Hyatt Place hotels combine style, innovation and 24/7 conveniences to create an easy-to-navigate experience for today’s multi-tasking traveler. Hyatt Place Zurich Airport The Circle is situated in the Circle destination and directly linked to Zurich Airport, representing one of the most central locations in Switzerland. Guests can conveniently enjoy the business and lifestyle offerings of the Circle, which includes shops, restaurants, a park, airport facilities and The Circle Convention Center. After a productive day, guests can unwind in the park or take advantage of the great outdoors, as the Swiss Alps and Lake Zurich are nearby. Hyatt Place Zurich Airport The Circle offers: - 300 spacious guestrooms with separate spaces to sleep, work and play, as well as a Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper - The Market serving a selection of perfectly packaged grab-and-go items from snacks to salads as well as beverages available 24/7 - ZOOM Restaurant with all-day dining and take-out options, delivering responsibly sourced, regionally inspired fare as well as international classics, including small bites such as wraps and waffles and heartier options including salads, burgers, fries and Zurich specialties - Necessities program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for free - Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and guestrooms - Convenient Workspaces and Event Spaces including a communal table in the lobby and over 30,000 square feet (2,800 square meters) of function space at The Circle Convention Center - Fitness Center open 24/7, featuring cardio equipment with LCD touchscreens, along with the nearby park offering outdoor jogging and walking

Create: Dec 29, 2021 Edit: Dec 29, 2021

IHG Hotels & Resorts Signs InterContinental Grenada Resort

IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, is proud to announce the signing of the InterContinental Grenada Resort. The 150-room Caribbean hotel will be built on La Sagesse Beach, approximately 30 minutes from the Maurice Bishop International Airport and the town of St. George’s. The InterContinental Grenada Resort will feature more than 30 private suites, an array of restaurants and bars, a luxurious spa and pool with bar and grill, fitness center, approximately 6,000 square feet of meeting space and a business center. The property is expected to open in 2025. Known as a top-rated tropical destination, La Sagesse Beach is a prime location for guests seeking a relaxing and secluded stay along Grenada’s spectacular southeastern shoreline. Julienne Smith, Senior Vice President, Development IHG, Americas, said: “Guests looking for the best in iconic luxury brands will be treated in style with a stay at InterContinental Grenada Resort. We’re excited to work with Range Developments to bring InterContinental’s elevated experience and world-class service to this Caribbean destination.” Mohammed Asaria, Managing Partner, Range Developments, said: “Whether guests come to experience luxurious spa treatments, relax in our stunning pools, dine at one of the specialty on-site restaurants or visit for a grand celebration, InterContinental Grenada Resort will deliver alluring and memorable guest experiences. We are excited to bring the strength of the InterContinental brand to beautiful Grenada. Range Developments has become the clear market leading Citizenship by Investment developer in the Caribbean with an unparalleled reputation for timely delivery and quality.” InterContinental Grenada Resort will be adjacent to Six Senses La Sagesse, Grenada, another Range Developments property and brand in IHG’s luxury portfolio, which is expected to open in 2023. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has become synonymous with bold exploration, travel and cultural discovery, having pioneered luxury travel in emerging and well-loved destinations for the past 75 years. There are currently 13 InterContinental Hotels & Resorts in Latin America and 205 open globally, including 73 hotels in the pipeline.*

Create: Dec 22, 2021 Edit: Dec 22, 2021

IHG Signs With Dallah Real Estate Company for Hotel Indigo Resort in Durrat Al Arus

IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a Management Agreement with Dallah Real Estate Company for a Hotel Indigo Resort in Durrat Al Arus, Jeddah. With this signing, IHG continues to expand its lifestyle portfolio in the country to cater to the future demand from new guest segments, seeking authentic Arabian experiences through Hotel Indigo’s neighbourhood story. No two hotel Indigo can be the same, as each has its own specific neighbourhood story embedded in the design, food and service. Due to open in early 2026, the Hotel Indigo Resort will be located in Durrat Al Arus, a recreational neighborhood north of Jeddah, and will be a leisurely drive away from the main city. The resort will be a part of a mixed-use development project consisting of a budding residential community, vast water frontage and man-made lagoons. Located along the Red Sea Coast, Hotel Indigo Resort in Durrat Al Arus will also be a perfect destination for guests to enjoy an active waterfront. IHG and Dallah Real Estate Company, will work in collaboration with renowned design studios and research agencies to weave the ‘Neighbourhood Story’ into the DNA of the hotel. The unique aesthetics of the resort and its service styles will immerse guests into the authenticity of the destination, its local culture, character and history. Along with boldly-designed 271 rooms, the resort will also feature 50 private pool villas, an expansive wellness facility, and home-grown food and beverage concepts that will not only offer a unique perspective to dining in Saudi Arabia – but also catch the interests of foodies and critics alike. Staying true to engaging with the neighbourhood, Dallah Real Estate Company has also partnered with 17Sixty – a marine adventure company that will enable the guests of Hotel Indigo, and residents of Jeddah, to experience marine flora and fauna like never before, keeping sustainability at its core. The company will also provide thrilling water sports activities to the guests. Speaking on the announcement, Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG said: “After debuting the brand in Riyadh, we are delighted to sign our second Hotel Indigo property in the country this year – Hotel Indigo Durrat Al Arus in Jeddah. In line with the Saudi Vision 2030 and the country’s Tourism Strategy, our luxury and lifestyle brands are gaining a lot of interest from our partners and investors. We are confident that upon opening, these properties will be equally popular with domestic and international travelers and will add to the authentic experiences guests will be looking for while visiting Saudi Arabia. We are also honored to once again partner with Dallah Real Estate Company, who boast a great deal of expertise in this sector. Together, we look forward to welcoming our guests to this exquisite property when it opens doors in 2026. ” Abdulaziz M.A Yamani, Managing Director, Dallah Real Estate Company said: “Given IHG’s history and strong legacy in the Kingdom, we are pleased to partner with them to offer our Saudi travellers and international guests a premium and authentic stay experience at Hotel Indigo Durrat Al Arus. The hotel will be positioned as a holistic destination for guests looking for adventure and an experiential stay. We are confident that this partnership will not only offer the best-in-class service to guests but also bring value to the business from IHG’s global systems and loyalty programme.” IHG currently operates 37 hotels in Saudi Arabia across five brands including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites and voco. A further 23 hotels are in the development pipeline, due to open within the next three to five years.

Create: Dec 22, 2021 Edit: Dec 22, 2021