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White Lodging Opening Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk

Hilton and White Lodging announce the opening of Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk this week located in the vibrant city of San Antonio on the iconic Riverwalk. The 195-room hotel officially opens Thursday, April 22 and is the first Canopy by Hilton in San Antonio. Together with its new restaurant and bar, this welcome addition to the neighborhood mixes colorful old-world vibes with the city’s rejuvenated art, entertainment and culinary scene. “We are thrilled to provide our guests with an authentic experience that brings San Antonio to life through locally-inspired design and South Texas cuisine while also providing a place to relax and recharge,” Daniel Haughan, general manager of Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk. “With incredible views of the Riverwalk and cultural attractions just steps away, guests are immersed in San Antonio’s vibrant Fiesta Culture.” Designed as a natural extension of the surrounding city, Canopy San Antonio Riverwalk boasts spacious guestrooms, suites and public spaces that strike a balance between modern design and rich cultural décor. This includes integrating the old Civil War-era Alamo Fish Market building and repurposing historical elements such as the cistern and limestone walls. Guest rooms are thoughtfully designed, showcasing artwork and textiles that reflect the city of San Antonio. The intricate black-and-white shower tile pattern in the bathroom represents the classic San Antonio quatrefoil logo, which honors the four specific city pillars: People, Pride, Passion and Promise. “I can’t think of a better city in which to grow Canopy’s footprint in Texas. San Antonio increasingly becomes a must-visit destination for its rich history, architecture, award-winning restaurants and eclectic culture,” said Phil Cordell, global category head, lifestyle & global brand head, Canopy by Hilton. “We look forward to offering guests a truly positive stay at Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk as we continue to expand Hilton’s lifestyle portfolio and open new properties in sought-after locations around the world.” Locally-Inspired Cuisine UNESCO has designated San Antonio a “Creative City of Gastronomy,” recognizing the city’s rich culinary heritage and local food movements. Canopy San Antonio Riverwalk embraces the local food scene with its two on-site restaurants that combine modern cuisine and local ingredients. Domingo Restaurant: From brunch plates to appetizers and dinner entrees, Domingo’s menu offers the flavors of South Texas, celebrating the culture of San Antonio with modern culinary flair. The on-site restaurant features a diverse menu that starts with lighter fare, including Mexican Shrimp Cocktail and Halibut Ceviche, and finishes with entrees like Ribeye a La Plancha and Green Chile & Chicken Enchiladas. The Sonoran Crispy Hot Dog and Mexican Hamburguesa – both made with wagyu beef – are sure to become an everyday favorite. Otro Bar: Sitting on the third floor, the elevated space includes an open-air terrace with great views of the Riverwalk alongside small bites and tacos. Otro’s full bar features creative cocktails, including the River Walker (La Venenosa Raicilla Tabernes, D’Aristi Xtabentún liqueur, lychee puree, Mahina Coco, lime juice) and a collection of non-alcoholic alternatives. We’ve Got You Covered At Canopy by Hilton, Enthusiasts (hotel Team Members) connect guests to the best of downtown San Antonio and are always happy to arrange a city tour or suggest a hidden gem to explore. At Canopy San Antonio Riverwalk, Enthusiasts define the local vibe, sharing their knowledge and experiences with guests and complimentary Canopy Bikes to explore the city. Canopy San Antonio Riverwalk is the ultimate destination for dog lovers and travelers looking to bring their canine along for the journey – in fact, Canopy offers each canine a Bark Box which includes a dog’s guide to the neighborhood and a welcome gift. Energizing Comfor Guest rooms feature beds that are covered by the brand’s signature, locally inspired canopies which create an ideal sleeping environment, complemented by Serta mattresses with ZoneActive™ 5-Zone Foam Topper and Serta Cool Balance® Technology for optimal support and temperature control. Each room is thoughtfully designed and offers a welcoming and relaxing experience that leaves guests feeling recharged with an open closet system, built-in refrigerator drawer and a Nespresso coffeemaker. From early morning to late at night, the hotel’s lobby space is a vibrant and energetic space for work, rest and play. In addition, the spacious 24-hour fitness center features an assortment of cardio, strength, core and balance equipment. Meeting Space Canopy San Antonio Riverwalk also offers 2,300 square feet of meeting and event space with floor-to-ceiling glass windows showcasing spectacular views of the San Antonio Riverwalk, an open terrace and ample natural lighting. The collaborative meeting space also includes linen-less event tables for a sustainable approach to meetings. Designed to create event experiences that are clean, flexible, safe and socially responsible, Canopy San Antonio Riverwalk features Hilton EventReady with CleanStay, a global, industry-leading cleanliness and customer service program specific to meetings and events that provides curated solutions for every step of the event planning process. Canopy San Antonio Riverwalk is also part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 world-class brands comprising more than 6,400 properties in 119 countries and territories. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, and free Standard Wi-Fi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room and access their room using Digital Key. The latest opening is Canopy by Hilton’s fourth property in the Lone Star State, and joins Canopy by Hilton Dallas Frisco, Canopy by Hilton Dallas Uptown and Canopy by Hilton Austin Downtown.

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

Major Renovation Completed at Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan Beach Resort

Opened in 1987 as the very first Pueblo Bonito property, the celebrated Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán Beach Resort recently completed an extensive $27 million renovation project intended to boost the landmark hotel’s status as an international travel and hospitality industry leader. Located along the famous Zona Dorada, or Golden Zone of Mazatlan, the original Pueblo Bonito (“Beautiful Village”) hotel set the bar for luxury travel in Mazatlan more than 30 years ago, effectively launching one of the most successful resort brands in Mexico. The transformation pays homage to the hotel’s Old World charm while elevating all elements of the property, including totally upgraded guest suites, restaurants, lobbies, and pools. The remodeling and renovation project has also greatly enhanced the building’s exterior and amenities while retaining the unique appeal of a hotel that been a favorite of guests for decades. “We are very excited to have undertaken this major renovation, which has revitalized, revamped, and reinvented the pioneer resort of the Pueblo Bonito collection,” said Alberto Coppel, CEO, Pueblo Bonito Golf and Spa Resorts. “Our beloved Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan has retained its charm, while attaining a new level of luxury, enhancing the already unique experience our guests have always treasured.” Coppel added, “The early success of this property—the best resort in town from the day it opened—allowed Pueblo Bonito Resorts to expand to Los Cabos. This renovation is our way of giving back to Mazatlan a little bit of what Mazatlan has given to us.” All accommodations, totaling 248 guest suites, were completely remodeled, with new artwork and fresh touches added throughout the property. A new restaurant was added, Pescados, a casually elegant space that serves fresh sashimi, maki, nigiri and sushi. The dining outpost doubles as a snack bar during the day. In addition, a new oceanfront bar was also installed, while Cilantro’s restaurant was totally reimagined. Las Palomas restaurant was also redesigned and expanded. This popular dining spot features new décor finishes and furniture. For business groups and small conventions, new meeting facilities capable of accommodating up to 300 attendees were built. The resort now offers beautiful, outdoor event space next to the swimming pool. From enhanced cleaning protocols to new contactless services, Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan has taken all of the necessary steps to ensure the safety of guests and team members alike, through the company’s own CARE Pledge. CARE translates to Conscientious Service, Advanced Standards, Rigorous Sanitation, Elevated Hygiene. On-site testing services are available at all Pueblo Bonito Resort properties so that guests can easily comply with CDC requirements that travelers get a viral test within three days of flying to the U.S. Testing services are included with all-inclusive packages for stays of three nights or longer.

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

Caravanserais, Asbads in South Khorasan eye World Heritage status

The process of preparing four caravanserais and Asbads (ancient vertical-axis windmills) in South Khorasan province is being carried out and the UNESCO assessors are projected to visit the sites by mid-May to register them in the World Heritage list. UNESCO assessors will travel to Iran for a final evaluation, and we hope to see the province's fifth property inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list this year, Hassan Ramezani, director-general of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Department of South Khorasan said on Wednesday, ILNA reported. Located in eastern Iran, South Khorasan province is home to many historical and natural attractions such as Birjand Castle, Dragon Cave, Furg Citadel, and Polond Desert. It is also known for its famous rugs as well as its saffron and barberry which are produced in almost all parts of the province. Asbad used to be a smart technique to grind grains. It also bears testimony to the human being’s adaption with nature by transforming environmental obstacles into opportunities. Iran plans to register a wide collection of its Asbads in different provinces on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The architectural spaces of these caravanserais include entrance porches, cells, docks, stables, water reservoirs, and the royal sitting hall, and in some caravanserais, impressive and very beautiful brick decorations have been used, and this architectural style and characteristics have made these works valuable." We are trying to prioritize the excavations of Kaleh Koob site in the form of joint studies with foreign groups through the Cultural Heritage Research Institute so that we can use modern Iranian methods in exploring this site." He explained the province's progress plans in the field of cultural heritage and said: "We have some research work in the field of very rich and valuable areas of South Khorasan which we continue them to reach a clear result. One of them is the ancient site of "Kaleh Koob" around the city of Sarayan, where we have done three seasons of archeological excavations so far, and there are artifacts and remains that date back to the late Neolithic to the Bronze Age.” He continued: "We are trying to prioritize the excavations of Kaleh Koob site in the form of joint studies with foreign groups through the Cultural Heritage Research Institute so that we can use up-to-date Iranian methods in excavating this site." He also pointed out that so far three seasons of archeological excavations and speculation operations have been carried out in the area of "Takhcherabad", noting: "During the study of architectural works and evidence obtained, in the opinion of many of my colleagues and experts and archaeologists, the antiquity of this hill, which is located around Birjand, can be traced back to the Median period in terms of architecture and history. Therefore, we definitely need to continue the exploration operations in this area so that we can achieve more accurate and scientifically sound results." Ramezani pointed out: "In the field of restoration, fortunately, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism, and especially the Deputy Minister of Cultural Heritage, Dr. Talebian, had a good view and also a good knowledge and domination of the historical capacities of South Khorasan, which has made us now one of the leading provinces in the field of buildings that are being restored with the participation of owners and the private sector, and we are even restoring a large number of historical buildings with the participation of owners and the private sector." The official underlined: "Following this process, a number of historical monuments in the province will be restored this year from our partnership funds. In addition, in the field of urban and rural historical textures, due to the number of nationally registered valuable textures, this year we will also see the continuation of restoration works in the walls of the passages, flooring, and restoration of single buildings in the area of historical textures." Ramezani also announced: "By mid-May, the process of launching the Museum of Clothing and Textiles of South Khorasan, which has been completed by the private sector at the historical house "Pardeli" in Birjand, and will be put into operation during the cultural heritage week."

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

Why Compliance Doesn’t Equate to Data Security

Hoteliers, let me ask you a question. What does it mean to run a secure hotel? The answer may vary, depending on who you ask. Why? Because security, across any industry, is a multifaceted discipline and an essential consideration for brands that interact with customer data and information. Cybersecurity attacks are commonplace in today’s world, and hotels are increasingly attractive targets due to their association with a variety of sensitive data. In fact, two of the top five biggest data breaches made public in 2020 were at hotel chains. Globally, cybercrime damages are expected to reach US $6 trillion by 2021. As our industry continues to embrace technological innovation across common touchpoints in the name of enhanced convenience and personalization, we realized the subsequent need for enhanced security protocols. With great power comes great responsibility, and the handling of personal data is no exception. The possibility for personalization is seemingly endless, but so are the associated security risks if hotels don’t take the necessary precautions to fortify their operations. Ironically though, hospitality’s ongoing focus on compliance often obscures the macro-level view of hotel security. All too often, we make the mistake of associating compliance with security when, in fact, they are not synonymous. Adherence to regulatory standards is important, but these standards often fail to account for the increasingly nuanced and ever-changing requirements of cybersecurity initiatives across hospitality. With ten years of former military experience under my belt, I’ve entered IT and cybersecurity with a unique perspective. My former career instilled in me the importance of a detail-centric approach, which I now apply to the world of hospitality regulations and procedures. I understand, intimately, that compliance is the first step – but it isn’t the entire picture. This realization holds even more weight in the pandemic era, a time when hotels are increasingly vulnerable to cybersecurity breaches and risks. A Demand for Security Innovation Historically, the hospitality industry has been slow to embrace technological change. Under the guise of tradition, many hospitality leaders have fallen victim to antiquated ideologies over the years — better known as the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset. Despite this, innovation is, ultimately, undeniable across a landscape that is primarily dictated by guest demands and preferences. However, the rate of change across our industry is often slow, and there is perhaps no better example of this stalemate than hotel tech security. While many aspects of our industry have seemingly ‘caught up’ to other sectors in regards to forward-facing innovation, IT and security have, for the most part, been left in the proverbial dark ages. We see hotels offering their guests an ultramodern experience, rife with next-gen upgrades and platforms including self-service kiosks, smart hotel rooms, AI-powered concierge robots, and keyless room entry. These are incredible advancements. When we pull back the curtain to view the policies and procedures at work behind the scenes, we realize a stark contrast. A robot concierge at a given hotel might know your name and seamlessly address your requests once you arrive on the property. However, that same hotel will probably still require you to manually fax or email a credit card authorization form. As an industry, we are making strides forward, but we have – for the most part – left core security considerations behind. To this effect, many of the hotel security breaches that dominated headlines involved hotels that were, in fact, compliant in terms of regulatory standards. These breaches often compromised point of sales systems that, despite complying with current industry standards, exposed guest credit card information in a way that put guests and hotel reputations at risk. Hotel Security for a Post-Pandemic World When considering the scope of hotel cybersecurity, it’s important to recognize that credit card theft is only one of many risks. Our industry relies on the exchange of large amounts of sensitive personal information, and the post-pandemic innovation and automation poised to spearhead hospitality’s recovery will, ultimately, thrive on guest data. As we look to a future of keyless room entry, AI-powered touchpoints, and high-tech self-service, we must consider the enhanced security required by increasingly interconnected hotel systems. Reports indicate that the more devices connecting to a network, the more vulnerable it is to cyberattacks. 513,936,296 hospitality data records were stolen or lost in 2018. In early 2020, 5.2 million guest records were compromised in one hotel chain breach 423 million travelers have been victims of a cyberattack through their business with hotels 70% of guests believe hotels don’t invest enough in cybersecurity protection Moreover, we must acknowledge the current state of the hospitality workforce. As our industry prepares for recovery after a period of severe downturn, we will welcome many newcomers to our industry in addition to restricted staffing due to limited post-pandemic budgets and cost-saving initiatives. New talent is welcome, but hotels should be increasingly cognizant of IT and cybersecurity training and awareness for all new and returning staff. After all, 95% of all data breaches can be traced to human causes. With this in mind, comprehensive cybersecurity training should be prioritized at every level of any organization. In fact, hotels should take this time to audit and, potentially, reinvent their cybersecurity best practices. Not only should risk assessments be performed every year, but they should also be performed every time a hotel implements a new solution. This may seem tedious initially, but dealing with the costs and reputational repercussions of a large-scale cybersecurity breach is far more taxing. Now, more than ever before, hoteliers must look beyond compliance to consider big picture hotel cybersecurity. Identifying any and all opportunities for risk is the only way to defend against it, and data security should be embedded into the very culture of a hotel. The more you educate your employees, the less likely they are to become the victim of a breach or attack.. In the post-pandemic world, creating a truly secure environment demands a diverse and increasingly detail-oriented approach to managing and protecting sensitive information.

Create: Apr 19, 2021 Edit: Apr 19, 2021 Hotel Management

RAM Hotels Opens AC Hotel Columbus Downtown in Georgia

AC Hotels by Marriott®, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, announced today the opening of the AC Hotel Columbus Downtown, located in the vibrant Uptown district of Columbus, Georgia. This six-story property is a design-driven lifestyle hotel featuring 125 guest rooms, engaging communal spaces and an extensive bar featuring custom-curated cocktails. “The AC Hotel Columbus Downtown is the first of its kind located directly on Broadway in Uptown, providing an elevated destination to Columbus, redefining the guest experience with inspired design and service,” says General Manager, Kane Morris. AC Hotel Columbus Downtown will include a curated collection of artwork and modern design elements, reminiscent of the historic Columbus Mills, utilizing subtle tones and crisp, clean lines. The thoughtfully designed property offers an inviting ambiance with contemporary styling to provide an elevated guest experience with anticipatory service and expertly executed amenities with no unwanted extras. The modern guest rooms cater to savvy leisure and business travelers with sleek furnishings, an open closet system, elegant art and hardwood floors. The AC Café is a true European-inspired coffee experience featuring specialty drinks from espresso, lattes and for a real treat, the Carajillo. The AC Library provides a quiet space for guests, complete with ambient lighting and a collection of inspiring novels selected by guest curators, while the buzzing AC Lounge® will provide a collaborative workspace by day and gathering place by night. Purposefully designed for creativity and connection, the AC Lounge is located in the lobby with access from Broadway. The bar is open for guests and locals alike and features Spanish-inspired tapas-style small bites, expertly crafted artisanal cocktails, local craft beers and specialty wines. The brand’s signature AC Kitchen invites guests each morning to a European-inspired breakfast selection of signature butter croissants baked fresh daily, savory egg tarts, artisan cured meats, such as thinly sliced La Quercia Prosciutto from AC’s iconic Berkel slicing machine, an international selection of cheeses, as well as yogurts and cereals, seasonal fruits and local specialties. “The concept behind the AC Hotel Columbus Downtown is simple but refined – remove the unnecessary extras to allow guests to focus on what is most important to them. We are excited to offer this frictionless experience to the Columbus area,” said Mitesh Patel, RAM Hotels Executive Vice President. “I especially look forward to introducing the AC Café. We are the first AC Hotel to offer this experience, from the moment the order is placed, to the moment the coffee is served, everything is visible to the guest. A truly elevated specialty coffee service experience available to guests and locals.” Intuitive service and signature amenities encourage guests to work, explore and socialize at the AC Hotel Columbus Downtown. Kallpods, the brand’s signature wireless service buttons, will be available throughout the hotel to better engage and meet the needs of guest requests. Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center and an AC Store featuring locally sourced items for on-the-go. As a brand known for applying a premium level of attention to even the smallest needs, each evening a special DIY lavender turn down service is available in the lobby. The new AC Hotel Columbus Downtown is conveniently located at 1225 Broadway and within walking distance to all the shopping and dining Uptown has to offer. The hotel is well positioned between major companies including Global Payments, Synovus, CSU, Mercer University and nearby Aflac.

Create: Apr 19, 2021 Edit: Apr 19, 2021 International News

The Goodtime Hotel — A New Hospitality Endeavor Between David Grutman and Pharrell Williams — Opens on South Beach

The Goodtime Hotel — the first collaborative lifestyle hotel brand from David Grutman of Groot Hospitality and Pharrell Williams — has officially opened its doors on Miami Beach’s Washington Avenue and 6th Street. The 266-room property promises an escapist, transportive atmosphere through its reimagined Art Deco aesthetic, which unwinds over nearly 100,000 square feet of public space. Together, Grutman and Williams worked alongside the real estate developers Michael Fascitelli and Eric Birnbaum of Imperial Companies who assembled, and ultimately developed, the full square block between 6th and 7th Streets on Washington Ave. The Goodtime Hotel’s architect Morris Adjmi, designer Ken Fulk and landscape architect Raymond Jungles breathed life into its spaces and rooms. Ultimately, this team has created a unique marquee concept in Miami Beach’s hospitality scene: The Goodtime Hotel promotes an active, balanced lifestyle of equal parts happy pursuits and relaxed escapism, all within an everything-at-your-fingertips tropical oasis. The result? The Goodtime is a place for both hedonistic revelry and laidback R&R. “My first hotel needed to break the mold,” says David Grutman. “I wanted to provide the 360-degree Groot Hospitality experience that our other venues are known for, but I also wanted to add more. This is about providing a getaway within a town that’s already known as a vacation spot. When you arrive at the hotel, and walk through our doors, it becomes a full on experience. When you’re at the Goodtime, we want you to feel like your worries and anxieties have been left outside. I am proud to have worked closely with Pharrell, Michael, Eric and Ken Fulk on bringing this hotel to life.” “We want The Goodtime Hotel to impart a feeling of both revitalization and that rare, exciting thrill that takes over when you discover something special,” says Pharrell Williams. “It’s that adrenaline-fueled sensation of entering a whole new setting and a whole new mindset. This place will provide a natural good time, for all who come through.” The Goodtime Hotel stands in a central, historic section of South Beach. Its corrugated facade, airy atrium entryway, hand-painted hothouse murals and Deco plasterwork recall the opulence and nostalgia of a time gone by, but this building has been entirely designed for modern travelers’ tastes. Its 266 guest rooms range from majority individual Queen bed accommodations to a handful of Suites. Many rooms hold direct views east to the Atlantic Ocean or west to Biscayne Bay, which guarantee Instagram-worthy sunrises and sunsets on a regular basis. Moreover, each of The Goodtime Hotel’s guest rooms features custom bedding, bespoke drapes (including a blackout option, in the event you need a few more hours to recharge), leopard-print benches, Ortigia bath amenities, and a signature pink rotary dial phone. In the guest corridors, a carpet woven with mock wet footprints amplifies the playful charm of Miami Beach. The Goodtime will also be home to vibrant F&B options, retail and more, all of which have been curated to create experiences synonymous with the property’s namesake. Grutman’s Strawberry Moon, a restaurant and 30,000 square foot pool club, will serve up classic and casual Mediterranean fare and a full array of specialty cocktails for lunch and dinner, inside or poolside. Strawberry Moon amplifies modern Miami’s crossroads of culture and energy, with Fulk’s design concept channeling mid-century Caribbean and Central American resort towns (such as Havana and Acapulco in their throwback days). Think: broad stripe pastel tiling, vintage scalloped bar seating, pinstriped awnings, and more. The Goodtime Hotel holds additional key aspects, such as its 45,000 square feet of ground floor retail, its gym, featuring MyBeast and Peloton equipment, and its Library, a glossy peach-hued and natural oak-clad room meant for anything from coffee to cocktails to casual business meet-and-greets. The Library is a sociable meeting ground within the hotel, where guests may seamlessly transition from work mode to weekend mode, if and when they so choose. The Goodtime Hotel opens for guest stays on April 15, 2021. Additional details about schedule programming will be made available, soon.

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

Restoration to begin on ancient castle in western Iran

The ancient castle of Hassan-Abad in the western province of Kordestan is scheduled to be revived and restored in near future, the provincial tourism chief has said. The castle, which is estimated to date back to the Parthian era (247 BC – 224 CE) and the Sassanid era (224 CE–651), is one of the magnificent tourist attractions of the province, Yaqub Guylian announced on Saturday. The fortification was built to protect the residents of the nearby city and included residential houses as well as military equipment to help defend the city against invaders, the official added. Aside from the high wall of the castle, it also has three guard towers, each of which is 400 meters away from the main fence of the fortress, he explained. He also noted that the castle is only accessed through a southern part of the hill it sits on, and it is difficult to reach the castle. From very early history to modern times, defensive walls have often been necessary for cities to survive in an ever-changing world of invasion and conquest. Fortifications in antiquity were designed primarily to defeat attempts at the escalade, and to the defense of territories in warfare, and were also used to solidify rule in a region during peacetime. Uruk in ancient Sumer (Mesopotamia) is one of the world’s oldest known walled cities. The Ancient Egyptians also built fortresses on the frontiers of the Nile Valley to protect against invaders from neighboring territories. Many of the fortifications of the ancient world were built with mud brick, often leaving them no more than mounds of dirt for today’s archaeologists. The name Kordestan refers to the region’s principal inhabitants. After the Turkish invasion of Iran in the 11th century CE (Seljuq period), the name Kurdistan was applied to the region comprising the northwestern Zagros Mountains. It was during the reign of Abbas I the Great of Iran’s Safavid dynasty (1501–1736) that the Kurds rose to prominence, having been enlisted by Abbas I to help stem the attacks of the marauding Uzbeks from the east in the early 17th century.

Create: Apr 11, 2021 Edit: Apr 11, 2021 Regional News

The Forester, a Hyatt Place Hotel, Now Welcoming Guests in Lake Forest, Illinois

A contemporary new hotel located at 200 N. Field Dr. in Conway Business Park, The Forester, a Hyatt Place Hotel developed by Janko Group and operated by Janko Hospitality is a one-of-a-kind boutique inspired offering from the Hyatt Place brand. Marking the first hotel to open in the North Shore suburb since 1929, the property’s concept is inspired by the city of Lake Forest’s motto, “Naturae et Scientiae Amor,” which translates to “Love of Science and Nature.” The Forester, a Hyatt Place Hotel is at a similarly unique crossroads, offering all the benefits of a Hyatt Place hotel, while at the same time blazing new trails with unique offerings including Oaken Bistro + Bar, an upscale dining experience along with over 4,500 square feet of flexible event space. 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. At The Forester, a Hyatt Place Hotel, science and nature are woven throughout from artwork inspired by natural fractals and meeting rooms named after native plants and flowers, to the front desk itself being constructed of a solid, single white oak tree trunk. The property features 156 spacious guest rooms, including 10 suites, each with 55-inch flat-screen Smart HDTVs, complimentary WiFi, mini-fridges, individually controlled heating and air conditioning, blackout curtains, hair dryers, in-room safes and more. The hotel is pet-friendly, and offers complimentary parking to guests in a lot on premises. “As the picturesque city of Lake Forest continues to grow and thrive economically, we are honored to open the newest hotel in the city in nearly 100 years,” said Marlena Karwowski, General Manager, The Forester, a Hyatt Place Hotel. “With our smartly designed social spaces and guestrooms with separate work and sleep areas, our multitasking guests can easily accomplish what they need to do while on the road. Lake Forest has long been at a unique crossroads of preservation and progress by way of open lands backing up to modern office parks and the cobblestone streets of historic Market Square offering coffee shops and retail stores, and this hotel was conceptualized at a similar juncture.” Ideally equipped to host events both large and small, The Forester, a Hyatt Place Hotel boasts three event rooms and a pre-function space all featuring the latest technology. The Lupine Room offers exterior access to an outdoor patio and 1,676-square-feet of space, accommodating up to 186 guests, while The Aster Room, the hotel’s largest event space, is able to host up to 200 guests in its 2,232-square-foot space. Best suited for groups of up to 45 guests, The Blue Stem Room offers an intimate 378-square-foot space. The hotel also boasts a chef-driven, full-service restaurant, Oaken Bistro + Bar, now open for dinner, brunch and cocktails. The modern new bar and lounge area is filled with earth-toned features and foliage-inspired light fixtures at every turn. Led by Executive Chef Kristen Burman, formerly of Limelight Catering and Anthology San Diego, Oaken Bistro + Bar offers a robust menu rooted in flavors both strong and bold, like the many centuries-old White Oak Heritage Trees in Lake Forest. To complement, the restaurant also features an eclectic variety of wine and spirits including signature cocktails, infused with local flowers and herbs. Oaken Bistro + Bar offers diners an inspired menu that, like tree rings, will grow and change seasonally. The Forester, a Hyatt Place Hotel also offers: Complimentary breakfast for guests featuring a variety of pre-packaged or individually wrapped hot and cold breakfast items as well as a paid, dine-in breakfast option in Oaken.The Market serving freshly prepared meals anytime, day or nightNecessities program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for freeFree Wi-Fi throughout hotel and guestroomsFitness Center featuring cardio equipment with LCD touchscreens

Create: Apr 10, 2021 Edit: Apr 10, 2021 International News

Noruz visits to Iranian museums falls by one-fifth due to virus

Visits to Iranian museums fell by one-fifth during the recent Iranian New Year (Noruz) holidays (March 19-April 2) in comparison to the same period two years ago, when the new coronavirus was not yet an issue. “Visits to cultural heritage museums fell by one-fifth during the Noruz holidays of the current year (1400) in comparison to the same period in the year 1398,” Mohammadreza Kargar, the director of museums and historical properties at the tourism ministry, announced on Saturday. “1,246,102 people visited cultural heritage museums [and sites] during this Noruz,” the official said without mentioning the number of visitors during the same period in 1398. Cultural heritage museums were closed during the Noruz holiday last year (1399) due to strict social distancing measures, the official said. Currently, 740 museums are active across Iran, of which 285 have been established since August 2013, when President Hassan Rouhani began his first administration, Kargar said in March. Back in 2018, he publicized that some three million historical objects were being kept at museums affiliated with the Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts, and Tourism Ministry. Iran is home to one of the world’s oldest continuous major civilizations, embracing settlements dating back to 4000 BC. It also hosts some of the world’s oldest cultural monuments including bazaars, museums, mosques, bridges, bathhouses, madrasas, gardens, rich natural, rural landscapes as well as 24 UNESCO World Heritage sites. The name of Iran, formerly known as Persia, mostly conjures up the first Persian Empire, ruled by the Achaemenids (ca. 550 – 330 BC) and sites such as Pasargadae and Persepolis. However, there are tens of prehistorical sites as the Burnt City in Sistan-Baluchestan, Tepe Sialk in Kashan, Susa and Chogha Zanbil in the Khuzestan province, and Ecbatana in Hamedan which predate the Achaemenid period. From a wider point of view, Iranian history can be divided into Pre-Islamic and Islamic eras. The Medes unified Iran as a nation and empire in 625 BC. The Islamic conquest of Persia (633–656) that put an end to the mighty Sassanid Empire (224–651) was a turning point in the history of the nation.

Create: Apr 5, 2021 Edit: Apr 5, 2021 Regional News

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and Emin Capital Announce Upcoming Project in Mallorca

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, a global leader in luxury hospitality, and Emin Capital, a private equity investment company focused on hospitality and real estate, announce plans for Four Seasons to manage the former Hotel Formentor in Mallorca, Spain. Originally opened in 1929, the existing hotel will undergo extensive renovations before it is unveiled as a Four Seasons experience in 2023. The property will offer 110 rooms and suites and is located on a 1,200 hectare (3,000 acre) plot of the Formentor Peninsula, offering access to a pristine beach, as well as a functioning vineyard a short five-minute drive away. “Following our entry into Spain in 2020, we are very excited to continue this momentum and expand our presence in this important market with a resort in Mallorca, offering guests a unique Four Seasons experience in a top European destination,” says John Davison, President and CEO, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “It is a privilege to work alongside Emin Capital to create a new vision for this exceptional property and we look forward to a successful partnership for many years to come.” “Formentor is a landmark of Mallorca in a key and unique setting in the Mediterranean. For Emin Capital, the goal of our investment was to protect both, and to reinvigorate the resort with a great luxury brand such as Four Seasons. We are committed to implementing sustainable and green initiatives in our revitalisation of this property, while maintaining an exceptional design, facilities and renowned service,” added Jordi Badia, Chairman and CEO of Emin Capital. Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean, can be accessed via ferry or a short flight from Barcelona, with additional direct flights from many European cities. Mallorca’s natural beauty and easy accessibility long established the island as a top tourist destination for European and international travellers. Mallorca’s turquoise waters, limestone cliffs and lush greenery make the picturesque island one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. About the Upcoming Four Seasons Resort in MallorcaLocated an hour away from Palma de Mallorca Airport, the upcoming Four Seasons in Mallorca will offer something for everyone through its extensive culinary offerings, relaxing spa facilities and exclusive seaside activities as one of the only properties in the area with direct beach access. All of the 110 rooms and suites will offer balconies with sea and forest views, allowing guests to soak in their beautiful surroundings. The renovations will be overseen by architects Estudio Lamela and SCT Estudio de Arquitectura, with interior designs by Gilles & Boissier. At the vineyard a short five-minute drive from the Resort, guests can enjoy exclusive programming, including farm-to-table activities. The Resort will also include an indoor restaurant, beachfront restaurant and café, and a poolside bar and grill. Additional onsite activities will include tennis courts and beautiful spa facilities. The Resort will also be the perfect choice for those planning meetings, events, weddings, and incentive travel, offering three event spaces as well as outdoor options to take advantage of the natural landscape. The project has been designed to respect and protect its natural surroundings through various environmental initiatives, such as the restoration of native vegetation and planting, reduced water consumption, rainwater harvesting and the use of grey water for landscape irrigation, heat recovery systems, solar power through use of solar panels, and food waste management systems. Other initiatives include the use of electric vehicles and low energy consumption through a very considered design approach. Four Seasons new project in Mallorca will become the second Four Seasons offering in Spain following the recent opening of Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Madrid in September of 2020.

Create: Mar 20, 2021 Edit: Mar 20, 2021 International News

New Hyatt Place and Hyatt House Hotels Open in North Scottsdale

Hyatt Place North Scottsdale and Hyatt House North Scottsdale, Scottsdale’s first combined Hyatt Place and Hyatt House hotels, celebrated their openings. Situated in the heart of North Scottsdale near Mayo Clinic Hospital, notable golf courses such as Grayhawk, TPC Scottsdale, and Troon North and premier dining establishments, guests can appreciate the hotels’ convenient location. The hotels expand the Hyatt Place and Hyatt House brands’ footprint in markets that matter most to guests and World of Hyatt members. The dual-branded properties feature nearly 2,000 square feet of meeting and event space, open concept public spaces, a 24-hour fitness center, a cozy breakfast area, a stylish bar area and an outdoor swimming pool. The hotels are operated by Evolution Hospitality. “We’re excited to invite guests to enjoy our dual-branded Hyatt Place and Hyatt House hotels in the heart of North Scottsdale,” said General Manager Scott Snofsky. “As guests look for a place to recharge on the road, we know they can appreciate the modern design and spacious layout in each guestroom– from the separate areas to sleep and work, including the Cozy Corner at Hyatt Place North Scottsdale, to the apartment-style suites with full kitchens at Hyatt House North Scottsdale. The unique benefit of dual branding is that our guests can choose the space that fits their needs without compromising on location.” “It’s a pleasure to be bringing the Hyatt Place and Hyatt House experience to the North Scottsdale market with the opening of these properties,” said owner Michael Batt. “This opening is a culmination of exceptional vision and hard work from many parties and is a testament to the standards of excellence we hold ourselves to with every undertaking. We’re confident guests will find everything they need to feel at home when they walk through the doors of these new hotels.” With close proximity to Mayo Clinic Hospital, one of the most sought-after medical facilities, Hyatt Place North Scottsdale and Hyatt House North Scottsdale serve as a respite for visiting medical professionals and patients alike. The nearby In addition to being located near the medical district, the hotels are also nearby Scottsdale Sports Complex, Musical Instrument Museum, West World and other event areas. Hyatt Place North Scottsdale features: 136 spacious guestrooms with separate spaces to sleep, work and play, as well as a Cozy Corner sofa-sleeperFree Wi-Fi throughout hotel and guestroomsNecessities program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for freeEvent Spaces with 1,910 square feet of flexible meeting/function spaceFitness Center featuring cardio equipment with LCD touchscreens and free ear buds Hyatt House North Scottsdale features: 93 guestrooms (studio and one-bedroom suites), featuring fully equipped kitchenettes, comfortable living areas and bedrooms with complimentary skin and haircare amenitiesFree Wi-Fi throughout hotel and guestroomsComplimentary breakfast for guestsThe Commons, a comfy lounge with an open and welcoming space for guests to relax, gather and socialize, and an outdoor area with comfortable seating and pool24-hour Workout Room to keep fitness routines goingBorrows Menu with often-forgotten items from phone chargers to razorsAdditional conveniences, including 24-hour Guest LaundryA pet-friendly policy that welcomes your furry companions

Create: Mar 20, 2021 Edit: Mar 20, 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