Hotel News Professional and Inclusive Hospitality Group

Search result...

AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea Opens in Hawaii Marking Brand Debut

AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea officially opens its doors today as the newest hotel and the first property in the Hawaiian Islands for the design-driven AC Hotels lifestyle brand. Part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, the hotel marks a significant milestone in delivering an effortless travel experience that strikes the perfect balance between everything you need, and nothing you don’t, in the stunning leisure destination of Maui. Nestled on three acres on the sunny southwestern coastline, AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea features 110 guestrooms with 12 suites, and an infinity-edge pool with a hot tub and cabanas. The hotel offers a perfectly curated experience, focused on the meaningful details and services that enhance every guest’s stay, allowing them to recharge and focus on the beauty of the island. “Our new hotel seamlessly blends the AC brand’s signature amenities with Maui’s naturally-inspiring landscape, people and aesthetics,” says Kaleo Kenui, Dual General Manager for AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea and Residence Inn Maui Wailea. “The overall design is an artistic rendition based on genuine Hawaiian experiences blending with modern life and a recognition of the diverse cultures forming Maui’s remarkable melting pot of humanity.” Large glass panels depicting ocean waves are illuminated at the main entrance acknowledging its proximity to the ocean and the important role it plays on the island. The sunken lounge surrounded by natural lava with tatami-styled flooring pattern of lava stone, varieties of tribal necklaces made from different shells, woodwork, prints and elements are curated throughout the hotel, recognizing the cultural influences of Asian and Pacific-Islander communities. Finally, 100 strands of lei made from dried seeds, berries and flowers, varying up to 12-feet in length, are strung into two beautiful tapestries at the lobby honoring the Hawaiian tradition of gifting lei as a symbol of aloha. “While the new hotel offers more options for visitors, it also allows us to continue supporting our local economy by infusing as much locally-produced art, crafts and culinary creations as we can and creating more jobs,” says Kenui. Intimate and modern, AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea presents two al-fresco and versatile dining options: AC Kitchen and KAI. AC Kitchen—framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, presents guests with a blend of international and Hawaiian inspired cuisine; wine, charcuterie, and fromage tastings; and locally curated delicacies for special culinary events. KAI, meaning “sea” or “seaside” in Hawaiian, is the poolside tiki bar featuring a long, rectangular lava stone firepit that brings a warm and cozy experience to the outdoors, complementing the spectacular sunset views of the Pacific Ocean and neighbor islands. The sophisticated, modern guestrooms feature a neutral-palette color scheme, hardwood floors, and sleek and elevated furnishings to create a greater sense of flow and space. Guests will enjoy smart features like ambiance controls to adjust temperature and lighting, plus traditional and USB outlets in all the right places. The rooms feature curated artwork that reflect Maui and offer views of the Pacific Ocean; islands Lanaʻi, Kahoʻolawe and Molokini; and Mount Haleakala. All rooms will have a private lanai, ensuring guests have the outdoor space they deserve to relax in paradise. AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea features additional signature AC public spaces. Designed with an upscale feel and equipped with business center amenities, including a computer work station and printer services, AC Library provides a flexible environment for guests to work and collaborate. For guests looking to maintain their exercise routine while on vacation, AC Fitness Center is open 24 hours a day with the latest fitness equipment including exercise machines, free weights, lifting benches and a stretching area. AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea is within walking distance to Wailea, Ulua, Mōkapu, and Keawakapu beaches and retail centers Wailea Village, Wailea Gateway, and The Shops at Wailea offering 100 shops and galleries combined. Other nearby experiences include more than 40 restaurants and bars, world-class spas, Wailea Tennis Club and Wailea Golf’s three championship courses. AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea will open committed to its guests and team members’ safety. It will follow Marriott International’s Commitment to Clean operating standards and protocols that include enhanced health and safety standards, anchored by the company’s Global Cleanliness Council. These include guest and associate face-covering requirements, social distancing policies, reduced seating capacity for meetings, frequent cleaning of high-touch areas, hand sanitizing stations throughout the hotel and mobile technology.

Create: May 25, 2021 Edit: May 25, 2021 International News

Iran could become hub for ‘vaccine tourism

Iran has the potential to become a destination for vaccine tourism regarding considerable efforts the country is making to develop series of domestic COVID-19 vaccines, the tourism minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan has said. There is a capacity to add ‘vaccine tourism’ to the ‘health tourism basket’ of the country after all [Iranian] people are received vaccines…. and the move could fuel a boom in the tourism sector of the country.” In the near future, we will possess the capacity to provide foreigner travelers with the COVID-19 vaccine, especially those from the neighboring countries,” Mounesan said. The Islamic Republic is among the first countries which started developing a vaccine against coronavirus, and now four companies are endeavoring to release their products by September and inoculate the whole population. Out of 16 vaccine production cases, four cases have received a code of ethics and are undergoing clinical trial; it is hoped that another three to four cases will succeed in receiving license by September. According to available data compiled by the tourism ministry, the number of foreign visitors to Iran plunged 94% in the first nine months of the past Iranian calendar year (ended March 20, 2021) as the coronavirus pandemic takes a heavy toll on the tourism industry. The coronavirus epidemic has ruined more than 1.5 million jobs in Iran’s travel sector, tourism minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan said in December. “Over 1.5 million jobs have been lost in the tourism sector of Iran due to the COVID-19 disease…. Many of the tourism-insiders are now unemployed or they are staying at home,” according to Mounesan. Tourism [industry of Iran] was growing before the corona [outbreak], its revenues reached $11.7 billion in 2019, which accounted for 2.8% of GDP, near the average share of tourism in the world GDP, which was 3.2 percent, the minister explained. The ancient land embraces hundreds of historical sites such as bazaars, museums, mosques, bridges, bathhouses, madrasas, mausoleums, churches, towers, and mansions, of which 24 being inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Under the 2025 Tourism Vision Plan, the country aims to increase the number of tourist arrivals from 4.8 million in 2014 to 20 million in 2025.

Create: May 24, 2021 Edit: May 25, 2021 Regional News

Over 100 years of Iranian postage stamps under one roof at newly-established museum

Various collections of the Iranian postage stamps issued since the Qajar era (1789–1925) onwards have been put on show at a newly-established museum in the historical city of Tabriz, the capital of East Azarbaijan province. Setting up inside the 200-year-old mansion (locally named “Khaneh Mojtahediha”), the museum was officially inaugurated on Saturday during a ceremony attended by Ramezanali Sobhanifar, the managing director of the National Post Company, and several local officials, IRNA reported. Furthermore, the museum turns the spotlight on the progress of communication and information technology tools in the country, showcasing numerous items from horse-drawn carts, scales, post boxes, as well as antique telephones and radios. Iran is one of the world’s pioneers in rendering postal services which dates from about 2,500 years ago. The modern post was launched more than one-hundred and fifty years ago by Amir Kabir, who was chief minister to Naser al-Din Shah Qajar. The historical city of Tabriz became the capital of the Mongol Il-Khan Mahmud Gazan (1295–1304) and his successor. Timur (Tamerlane), a Turkic conqueror, took it in 1392. Some decades later the Kara Koyunlu Turkmen made it their capital, it was when the famous Blue Mosque was built in Tabriz. The city retained its administrative status under the Safavid dynasty until 1548 when Shah Tahmasp I relocated his capital westward to Qazvin. During the next two centuries, Tabriz changed hands several times between Persia and Ottoman Empire. During World War I, the city was temporarily occupied by Turkish and then Soviet troops.

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

Iran considers opening borders to vaccinated travelers

Iran is weighing plans to open its borders to vaccinated tourists though it isn’t yet clear exactly when tourists will be allowed to arrive. The Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts have already started extensive consultations with other government ministries for the reopening of borders to vaccinated travelers, the deputy minister Vali Teymouri said on Wednesday. “One of the issues that we are pursuing strongly through various committees is the arrival of international citizens who have been vaccinated so that won’t pose a threat or concern to the Iranian society,” the official said. “We have put forward the proposal to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Health, and to the President (Hassan Rouhani) as well.” He went on to say that other countries are planning to open borders to vaccinated tourists. “We estimate that soon, various tourist destinations in the world, including the European Union, will open their doors to international tourists implementing a vaccine-passport approach….” Earlier in March, the Head of the Iranian Tour Operators Association Ebrahim Pourfaraj asked the government to issue tourist visas for the international applicants who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. “The Ministry of Health and the National Headquarters for Coronavirus Control can at least agree that the international tourists who have received the [second dose of] coronavirus vaccine would be allowed to enter Iran,” Pourfaraj said. He also lamented that the continuation of such a trend would result in losing international tourist markets more than before. “Or at least they should make it clear so that we can respond appropriately to foreign companies and tourists to not to miss the international tourist markets more than before,” he said. According to available data compiled by the tourism ministry, the number of foreign visitors to Iran plunged 94% in the first nine months of the past Iranian calendar year (ended March 20, 2021) as the coronavirus pandemic takes a heavy toll on the tourism industry. “Some 450,000 foreign travelers arrived in Iran for mainly medical or trade purposes during the first nine months of the year… tightened measures to tackle the new coronavirus has reduced international travel to the country by 94 percent,” Teymouri said. The coronavirus epidemic has ruined more than 1.5 million jobs in Iran’s travel sector, tourism minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan said in December. “Over 1.5 million jobs have been lost in the tourism sector of Iran due to the COVID-19 disease…. Many of the tourism-insiders are now unemployed or they are staying at home,” Mounesan said. Smart and responsible traveling should replace “do not travel” recommendations, the minister stressed, adding: “In our country, Corona has caused problems in the tourism industry and the worrying point is the continuation of this trend.” Tourism [industry of Iran] was growing before the corona [outbreak], its revenues reached $11.7 billion in 2019, which accounted for 2.8% of GDP, near the average share of tourism in the world GDP, which was 3.2 percent, the minister explained. The ancient land embraces hundreds of historical sites such as bazaars, museums, mosques, bridges, bathhouses, madrasas, mausoleums, churches, towers, and mansions, of which 24 being inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Under the 2025 Tourism Vision Plan, the country aims to increase the number of tourist arrivals from 4.8 million in 2014 to 20 million in 2025.

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

The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm Debuts on Iconic Palm Jumeirah Island

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, today announced the highly anticipated debut of The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm. Heralding the storied heritage and celebrated traditions of St. Regis, this hotel joins a dynamic global portfolio and brings the brand’s signature hallmarks of bespoke service, innovative design, and exquisite experiences to the world-famous island and cosmopolitan city of Dubai. “With its spectacular skyline, breathtaking desert landscapes, contemporary architecture, thriving culture and varied entertainment offerings, Dubai is one of the most sought-after destinations for global leisure travellers,” said Sandeep Walia, Area Vice President – United Arab Emirates, Marriott International. “The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm is an exquisite addition to our global portfolio and offers a century-old legacy of uncompromising refinement and bespoke service on Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah.” “We are delighted to welcome the St. Regis brand to our portfolio of hospitality partners. Palm Jumeirah is firmly established as world-leading destination for living, leisure and tourism, and the opening of The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm brings yet another world-class hospitality offering to the island’s ever-growing list of attractions, including The View, which opened at the top of The Palm Tower last month. With its enviable location, luxury facilities and signature service, the hotel is sure to be a draw for UAE residents and Dubai’s regional and global luminaries,” said Omar Khoory, Chief Assets and Hospitality Officer at Nakheel. Sophisticated Design and Exceptional AccommodationsDesigned to feature the brand’s sophisticated aesthetic, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm balances local influences with the modern glamour and visionary spirit of St. Regis. Elegant décor and contemporary interiors are accentuated with bespoke elements such as the hotel’s grand staircase, which is embellished with gold detailing that encircles an exquisite chandelier. Inspired by the Arabian palm tree, the chandelier is gilded with shimmering crystals that gracefully illuminate the ground floor of the hotel. The intimate lobby features plush lounge areas and a tucked-away library lit by an artful fireplace. The corridors and gathering spaces are adorned with a thoughtfully curated art collection featuring contemporary artwork and paintings. The 264 lavishly appointed guestrooms and 26 elegant suites offer luxuriant comfort, exceptional amenities and expansive views of Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm features the renowned hallmarks of the St. Regis brand, including St. Regis Butler Service, which allows each guest to customise their stay according to personal tastes and preferences. Distinctive Culinary ExperiencesThe hotel is a vibrant lifestyle destination with a diverse selection of restaurants, bars and lounges. Cordelia sets the tone for a sophisticated evening, offering a variety of flavourful cuisine, including premium cuts of meat and seafood sourced from around the world – expertly prepared and grilled to perfection. Her by Caroline Astor offers an elegant gathering place to enjoy the brand’s signature Afternoon Tea. The ladies-only venue is an intimate setting and features curated tea pairings and a locally inspired take on this acclaimed St. Regis ritual. The iconic St. Regis Bar extends the legacy of the King Cole Bar at the brand’s flagship property at 55th and Fifth Ave. in New York City, where the world-renowned Bloody Mary cocktail was born in 1934. Guests can enjoy The Glitzy Mary, a locally inspired take on the brand’s signature beverage, which features traditional Emirati flavours including date syrup, an aromatic bezaar spice blend, sun-dried lime and earthy saffron. The poolside restaurant, Dip Pool Bar, with scenic views of Dubai’s skyline, is the ideal place to relax and enjoy a light meal. Honouring a signature tradition at St. Regis properties around the world, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm marks the transition from day to evening with a celebratory sabering at dusk. Rejuvenation for the Body and SoulA luxurious oasis, The St. Regis Spa offers transformative and bespoke signature treatments including the Signature Gold Journey, which uses 24k gold to nourish and strengthen the skin. Guests can work out in the exclusive Fitness Center, featuring a range of cardio and strength equipment, or enjoy a leisurely swim in a choice of two pools, one for families and one for adults. The hotel is also steps away from soft sandy beaches and the soon-to-open St. Regis Beach Club. A Sophisticated Destination for Bespoke EventsMarking the brand’s legacy of iconic celebrations, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm boasts an elegant Astor Ballroom, which is brightly lit with natural daylight and features grand sculpted doors, blended silk rugs and a striking chandelier with abstract fluted glass leaves. From intimate events to lavish celebrations and business gatherings alike, the hotel offers choice and flexibility with its six multi-purpose meeting rooms all equipped with state-of-the-art technology. “We are delighted to have opened the doors of The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm and look forward to inviting guests to enjoy our rituals and traditions, alongside exceptional luxury and anticipatory service,” said Marwan Fadel, General Manager, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm. The City’s Finest AddressThe St. Regis Dubai, The Palm occupies the first 18 floors of The Palm Tower, a stunning new 52-story landmark development connected to the Nakheel Mall which offers world class shopping, a variety of culinary venues and entertainment options. Guests can also access the Palm Monorail from the mall for a scenic route to the landmarks of Palm Jumeirah. On the 52nd floor of the tower, The View at The Palm is an exclusive observation deck that rests 240 metres above the iconic island and offers sweeping, 360-degree views of Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf and the city skyline, as well as an interactive experience showcasing the history and creativity behind the island. The hotel is also a three-minute drive to The Pointe, an iconic waterfront destination, with restaurants, shops, and the world’s largest fountain measuring 7,327 square metres.

Create: May 22, 2021 Edit: May 22, 2021 International News

Colebrook Financial Announces Receivable Loan to Latitude Vacation Club

Latitude Vacation Club has entered into an agreement with Colebrook Financial Company, a leading lender to the timeshare and travel club industries to provide a receivable loan. Latitude Vacation Club’s home resort, Ancora Cap Cana Marina Resort & Villas is inside Cap Cana, a gated community of 33,000 acres—twice the size of Manhattan– located 10 minutes from Punta Cana’s International Airport. This is a first-time development for Cecil Latta, well known for his sales and marketing successes at Westgate Resorts, Tempus Resorts, and El Cid Vacations Club in Mexico. As CEO and Founder of Latitude Vacation Club, headquartered in Celebration, FL, Latta is focused on offering 20 year memberships in Latitude Vacation Club+ featuring Ancora Cap Cana Marina Resort and Villas. In addition to some the best Bill Fishing in the world, Latitude Vacation Club+ members may enjoy one of the Dominican Republic’s most famous attractions, Scape Park, as well as Punta Espada a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course rated number 1 in Mexico and the Caribbean since 2011, an equestrian center called Los Establos with FIFA certified soccer (football) fields. Bill Ryczek, Principal of Colebrook Financial said: “We’ve worked with Cecil Latta on other projects and are delighted to finance his new offering in the Dominican Republic. He’s been known for years as one of the top sales and marketers in the timeshare industry, and we’re glad to see him developing his own project for the first time. We think there’s some real opportunity for growth, and thus far sales have been terrific, despite current travel conditions. Once travel opens up, we expect excellent results.” Latitude and Cecil Latta have had a working relationship with Colebrook Financial Company’s Bill Ryczek and Tom Petrisko for years. Latta says, “Getting to know them, their personal and professional integrity made working with them a simple choice. What about Colebrook is outstanding? Even during the most challenging of times Colebrook has stuck to their lending plans when many others decided not to.” Colebrook is a pioneer in many forms of financing and began working with club products before most lenders. Few competitors can match their longevity in the industry. They enjoy a reputation for adapting to new situations more quickly than larger institutions.

Create: May 22, 2021 Edit: May 22, 2021 International News

BENCHMARK® Adds Bermuda’s Historic Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa to Expanding Portfolio of Leisure & Incentive Travel Properties

BENCHMARK®, a global hospitality company, today announces the addition of Bermuda’s Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa to its international collection of resorts, hotels, and conference centers. The 90-year-old resort becomes the first property the management group will operate in the British territory widely known for its pink sand beaches and turquoise waters. “The addition of Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa to the Benchmark family marks an exciting milestone for our team: we prepare to operate our first resort in this legendary destination,” said Benchmark CEO Alex Cabañas. “Benchmark is thrilled to partner with Cambridge Beaches’ new ownership, Dovetail + Co, as we work together to elevate this notable property.” Located on Bermuda’s West End, Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa spans a private 20-acre peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Mangrove Bay. The property’s footprint includes 86 cottage-style suites that boost individual outdoor spaces, while select accommodations feature private plunge pools with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Four beach areas and a waterfront swimming pool offer guests a variety of options for oceanside lounging, and an on-site, five-acre ornamental garden showcases the tranquility of the destination. Spa lovers can indulge at Cambridge Beaches’ 10,000-square-foot Ocean Spa that is home to an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and fitness center. The resort’s multiple dining venues appeal to a range of palates, with a selection that reaches from causal poolside fare to elevated cuisine. Additional amenities include tennis courts, a putting green, croquet lawn, marina, and a watersports hub. Cambridge Beaches originally opened 90 years ago as Bermuda’s first cottage-style accommodations, although some buildings date back to the 1600s, shortly after the island’s discovery in 1609. Today, the resort remains a go-to for travelers from around the globe. As Cambridge Beaches transitions under its new ownership and management, the property will see updates to its rooms and public spaces and a refined guest experience

Create: May 22, 2021 Edit: May 22, 2021 International News

Village Hotels Installs Google Nest Hub Solution Powered by Volara Across All 32 U.K. Hotels

Village Hotels has selected Volara to voice enable all guestrooms and guest services in its portfolio of hotels across the United Kingdom with Google’s hotel solution. Volara’s conversation-management software and secure integrations hub will enable guests staying at any of the innovative hotel brand’s 32 properties to use simple voice commands to interact with the hotel and personalise their experiences, from making service requests and setting alarms to asking for local recommendations and or hotel information. Together, this technology will enable Village Hotels’ guests to get what they want, when they want it, without lifting a finger. Further, frequent guests of Village Hotels can easily make their next reservation at any Village Hotels location — from Portsmouth to Bristol to London — by simply saying, “Hey Google, call reservations.” Volara’s platform-agnostic software turns popular voice assistants into a hotel business tool that drives more efficient guest service, influences guests’ behaviour by promoting hotel amenities and guest activities, measurably improves net promoter scores by 20 percent, and helps hoteliers understand their guests better. Volara’s secure integrations hub connects hotels to more than 50 powerful technologies, including property-management systems, IPTV systems, work order-management systems, room controls, guest-engagement platforms, valet software, staff alert technologies and more. Volara is the only hotel-focused solution with an Alexa for Business Solution Designation. Volara is a launch partner for Google’s Hotel Solution, Google Assistant Interpreter Mode, and Alexa for Hospitality. Today the company provides conversation management software and secure integrations for 98 percent of the hotels using voice assistants across the globe. “Village Hotels are designed to give travelers a truly immersive guest experience,” said Jon Davis, Village Hotels CTO. “That means giving guests a contactless way to talk to us. We want to answer their questions and fulfill requests quickly and accurately without a lot of staff interaction. To do this ― as well as to get to know our customers better and anticipate their needs on future stays at any hotel in our system — Village has become the first hotel brand to commit to voice enabling its entire portfolio with Google’s hotel solution customised, implemented, and supported by Volara. “From a Google Nest Hub smart display set up in each room, we can specifically and immediately address guest requests on voice command,” he said. “Guests can make their stay more seamless by saying things like ‘Hey Google, set an alarm for tomorrow morning at 8AM,’ or learn more about Village Hotels’ exclusive offers and popular loyalty program by saying things like ‘Hey Google, how do I join the Booking Revolution?’ or ‘Hey Google, tell me about VWorks.’ With the best of Google and Volara, we know we are getting the most secure and flexible platform in hospitality. Both companies share in our commitment to maintain guest privacy and deliver truly brand consistent experiences.” Village Hotel’s voice technology rollout began in 2019 at the Village Hotel Portsmouth, Village Hotel Bristol, and Village Hotel Basingstoke. Properties in London Watford, Farnborough, and Southampton Eastleigh have already been enabled with the solution in every guestroom. Over the coming months, the hotel brand will be bringing the solution to every guestroom at Aberdeen, Birmingham, Blackpool, Bournemouth, Cardiff, Chester, Coventry, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool, Maidstone, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, Solihull, Swansea, Swindon, Warrington, and Wirral. “Village Hotels is the first hotel brand to commit to voice enabling its entire portfolio,” said David Berger, Volara CEO. “As Village Hotels continue to grow, our solution will grow with it. This leading hotel brand is raising the bar on guest engagement — driving satisfaction and loyalty one guest voice command at a time. Together we are delivering contextually relevant, totally awesome, conversational experiences at scale.”

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

Amara Resort and Spa Embarks on Property-Wide, Multimillion-Dollar Renovation

Amara Resort and Spa, a beloved resort in Sedona, Ariz., announced today that it has embarked on a multimillion-dollar renovation that will bring a new and sophisticated “tree lodge” aesthetic to all 100 guestrooms and public spaces on property. Nestled along the banks of Oak Creek, the renovation will be completed in phases in an effort not to affect the guest experience. Amara’s signature restaurant, SaltRock Southwest Kitchen, and the award-winning Amara Spa will also be enhanced, with the full project slated to be completed in fall 2021 ahead of Labor Day weekend. “When the new design is unveiled later this year, Amara will not only have the newest guestrooms in the market but it will be a destination where locals and world travelers alike will come to be immersed in the local culture through well-appointed design elements and Sedona-centric programming,” said Nick Solomon, general manager of Amara. “With the resort’s panoramic red rock views, its creekside location and its walkability to the dining, shopping and entertainment in Uptown Sedona, there’s really no other property like it in Northern Arizona.” Taking inspiration from the surrounding red rocks, metaphysical energy and fabled vortexes for which the small resort town has become famous, the renovations at Amara will bring the outdoors in by encompassing all five of the natural elements surrounding the resort. Every room will feel like a sanctuary as neutral tones blend harmoniously with organic textures, while a deep blue feature wall will serve as an anchor to promote a sense of connection to the sights and sounds of the nearby babbling creek. Rich wooden elements like headboards handcrafted from local fallen trees, bedside lamps and new furnishings will allow guests to feel one with nature. New artwork, carpet and linens reflect the craftsmanship and traditions of the Hopi and Navajo tribes that are indigenous to Northern Arizona as bold patterns, geometric shapes and handwoven details create a more masculine identity. The bathrooms will also be elevated to introduce a more modern and functional approach with walk-in showers with rain shower heads and large porcelain tile that reflects the look of the sandstone layers. The redesigned experience will begin upon arrival as guests enter a social, comfortable and inviting lobby space that allows travelers to gather and recharge. With a strong connection to place, the dramatic, vaulted ceilings will be adorned with two eye-catching chandeliers inspired by star constellations, while wood accents and bold textures create a variety of subtle statement pieces through furniture, art and accessories. A focal point of the lobby will be an elongated bar that extends from the adjoining SaltRock Southwest Kitchen into the communal area in order to encourage guests to grab a cocktail, mix and mingle. Additionally, alterations to the Amara Spa will reconfigure the entry vestibule for dual access to the spa’s lobby and a brand-new fitness center, allowing the previous center to be converted into a private dining or multipurpose room adjacent to SaltRock. Just outside, guests can enjoy the cool mountain air while gazing out past the resort’s heated infinity-edge pool, playing games on the courtyard lawn or by grabbing a bite on SaltRock’s expansive patio that boasts some of the best views in Sedona. “The tree-lodge concept spoke to us the most for this renovation project as we felt that the high-vaulted ceiling and community environment in the lobby reminded us of an elevated Après-Ski ambience, while the rooms nestled amongst the trees gave us the nostalgia of a backyard treehouse,” said Anissa Mendil, of Mendil + Meyer Design Studio. “Our team is inspired by both the spiritual and adventurous personality of Sedona and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with Amara and breathe new life into this celebrated resort.”

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

Think In-Room Wellness to Welcome Back Post-Pandemic Guests

The concept we want you to remember is ‘post-COVID stress disorder’ (PCSD), inscribing those guests who are emerging from the pandemic, and most likely vaccinated, yet still have some lingering fears about travel and their exposure to the virus. To quell these doubts, and turn a buck while at it, consider the idea of merchandising spa and wellness products within the guestroom. As background, it’s important to note that with all the lockdowns of 2020 and repeated messaging about physical distancing and self-isolation, new habits have solidified and have caused many of us to become more introspective or introverted, even as we opt to set sail and explore the world once again. Thus, customers will expect hotels to respond to this behavioral shift with new amenities in the guestroom so that we can all still have a great hotel experience but without strictly relying upon access to onsite (and potentially high contact) facilities to achieve this. Indeed, most of the major brands are already seizing upon this in-room wellness trend, like Accor’s All Stay Well or Hyatt Together which are both on-demand content services offering a range of exercise, meditation, mobility, sleep or yoga routines, often through partnerships with leading players in the wellness space. What we emphasize here is that if the big chains are bolstering their brand standards in this regard, then you cannot allow your property to get left behind. The beauty therein is that wellness is such a catchall term these days that you can get as creative as your budget permits to build a unique interpretation. While you may not have the resources to put together a full-fledged app, this shouldn’t stop you from exploring your options. Get your team together; make it a fun brainstorming exercise. Here are some ideas: Onsite fitness, meditation or yoga calls, kept within the new guidelines for viral safety via clearly marked attendee floor circles, strict online booking for contact tracing and the option of a video alternative for those who want to remain in their rooms Basic exercise equipment like yoga mats, bands, roam rollers or light weights, available in the room or at request, and always disinfected prior to delivery Healthy foods with nutritional tidbits, available as a surprise-and-delight welcome amenity, as part of a rejuvenated room service program or in the minibar, again abiding by sanitization rules In-room aromatherapy, which can encompass flowers, allergen-free materials, essential oil diffusers or branded scents Anything else that can bring the calming experience of an onsite spa into the guestroom such as beauty product or grooming samples Personal wellness consultations, conducted either in-person with physical distancing, or via your preferred platform for videoconferencing Mindfulness enhancers such as stimulating in-room artwork, hydrotherapy, daily haikus or thoughtful materials accessible via a phone, tablet or TV Undoubtedly your team can come up with a myriad of incredible recommendations that are tailored to your specific region if you give them a day or two. Importantly with all of these ideas listed above, there’s the possibility for an upsell by making these prearrival purchases, add-on services at any extra cost, bundling them into a rooms package or incorporating them into a higher product tier. Take heed, though, as right now these wellness amenities can be marketed or sold as a value-add for your brand. Similar to what we’ve seen with the rapid adoption of upgraded cleanliness and safety SOPs this past spring, these aspirational trends can have a way of quickly becoming the expectation. The more that chains embrace in-room wellness, the more likely these amenities are to be perceived as hospitality standards rather than noteworthy value-adds. To get started, it need not be something so elaborate and comprehensive. Simple is often better.

Create: May 17, 2021 Edit: May 17, 2021 Hotel Management

Element by Westin Opens the 460-room Element Philadelphia in Pennsylvania

Element Hotels – part of Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 leading brands and designed for today’s healthy, active traveler – announce today the opening of Element Philadelphia, marking the brand’s debut in the city. Developed by Conshohoken-based Chestlen Development, the hotel will be the newest addition to Philadelphia’s reemerging hospitality scene, with travelers planning an average of 2.7 trips this year, according to a recent Visit Philadelphia report. Designed with a focus on sustainability and well-being, Element is ideal for families, groups and business travelers who want to maintain a balanced lifestyle while on the road. “Bringing the Element brand to Philadelphia was a strategic decision to appeal to the wellness-minded modern traveler, who is looking for self-sufficiency, more space to recharge, and amenities that align with their lifestyle,” stated Edward Baten, Complex General Manager, Element Philadelphia. “As the needs of travel, work and leisure have evolved over the last year, our offering is better suited than ever before to welcome guests with a range of work and life demands. Our flexible accommodations will open at a time when it’s needed most for leisure and business travelers alike.” Element Hotels has redefined the longer stay experience with a design philosophy that encourages guests to recharge and find focus. This approach is seen throughout Element Philadelphia, the brand’s largest property globally. The hotel’s 460 bright and modern guest rooms are positioned in an ideal Center City location and boast impressive views of Philadelphia’s historic architecture and skyline. The sunlit Sky Lobby will offer open seating for work and relaxation, and a range of safe, socially distanced amenities for guests to utilize. Fully equipped kitchens in every room, a business center, Motion Fitness center and guest laundry services create flexible work-from-anywhere possibilities. At Element Philadelphia, guests will be energized with a food and beverage program that prioritizes fresh, healthy ingredients. A complimentary Rise breakfast starts the day and the Relax evening reception invites guests to unwind together in the Sky Lobby. Balanced grab-and-go meals, snacks and beverages are available from the Restore gourmet pantry, which features products from local producers. In addition, guests are invited to eat well from the comfort of their own room. With kitchens stocked with everything needed to create a home-cooked meal, Element hopes to inspire guests by introducing local culinary and nutritional voices to provide easy-to-follow recipes. These digital recipes and meal ideas, which will be accessible via in-room QR codes and in pre-arrival emails, will feature fresh, local ingredients that can be picked up at iconic neighborhood markets such as Di Bruno Brothers and Reading Terminal Market. Designed to get visitors moving, Element Philadelphia features a Bikes to Borrow program with its custom-designed Priority Bicycles in unmistakable Element green. The Bikes to Borrow program provides suggested routes to help guests experience the city’s history, art or nearby bike trails. Whether on two wheels or walking with a four-legged friend, Element encourages guests and their pets to explore more. Element’s pet-friendly program includes a signature dog bed, treats, water bowls, eco-friendly clean-up supplies and more for travelers visiting with pets. Element Philadelphia offers more space for guests to live their lives in rooms ranging in size from a Standard guest room, to Deluxe and Executive guest rooms, to One Bedroom Suites. The signature Westin Heavenly® beds and spa-inspired bathrooms feature rain showers designed to infuse a sense of calm. Element is proud to be green from the ground up and has built a smarter, better place to stay. When choosing materials, Element Philadelphia’s design team pioneered eco-friendly, sustainable design that improves hotel air quality, minimizes pollutants and chemicals, and gives guests ample access to natural light, resulting in a cleaner, healthier environment. The hotel also integrates eco-friendly materials and practices into its design in a variety of ways, including: Electric vehicle charging stations Guestrooms featuring carpets with up to 100% recycled content Wall art mounted on a base made from recycled tires Walls featuring low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints Bathrooms featuring low-flow faucets and fixtures Silverware and glassware provided, minimizing single-use plastics and disposable waste Recycling is made easy with bins in every guestroom and throughout public spaces Filtered water is available in all guestrooms and in the public spaces through a dispenser unit Element Philadelphia uses only 100% recycled postconsumer wastepaper for all printing and stationery needs Element Philadelphia will soon provide access to over 45,000 square feet of purpose-built event space, fully adaptable for the changing dynamics of indoor meetings, events and celebrations. Guests of Element Philadelphia can travel with confidence with services adapted for COVID-19, adhering to Marriott’s Commitment to Clean standards throughout their stay, including contactless check-in, social distancing, increased cleanliness protocols and new UV-light cleaning technologies. Consisting of in-house and outside experts in food safety, hygiene and infection prevention, and hotel operations, the Marriott Cleanliness Council has redefined cleaning and safety standards.

Create: May 16, 2021 Edit: May 16, 2021 International News

Intl. webinar to discuss ways to preserve Persepolis for future generations

A host of experts will be discussing archaeological findings and the latest attempts for the conservation of the UNESCO-registered Persepolis for future generations. “In this webinar, experts and researchers in the fields of archaeology, conservation and restoration, archeology, linguistics, documentation, architecture and civil engineering, geology, biology, law, statistics, etc. will discuss and exchange views on the ancient Persepolis during a four-day international webinar, which starts on Sunday,” CHTN quoted the organizers as saying on Saturday. Archaeological achievements in the World Heritage site will be discussed on the first day of the conference while decades of conservation, restoration, documentation projects would be topics for the second day. On the third day, applied research on conservation and restoration, documentation will be scrutinized. Moreover, comprehensive conservation plans for the architecture and conservation of the site are set to be conferred on the last day of the event. Persepolis, also known as Takht-e Jamshid, whose magnificent ruins rest at the foot of Kuh-e Rahmat (Mountain of Mercy) is situated 60 kilometers northeast of the city of Shiraz in Fars province. The ruined royal city ranks among the archaeological sites which have no equivalent, considering its unique architecture, urban planning, construction technology, and art. Persepolis was burnt by Alexander the Great in 330 BC apparently as revenge to the Persians because it seems the Persian King Xerxes had burnt the Greek City of Athens around 150 years earlier. The city’s immense terrace was begun about 518 BC by Darius the Great, the Achaemenid Empire’s king. On this terrace, successive kings erected a series of architecturally stunning palatial buildings, among them the massive Apadana palace and the Throne Hall (“Hundred-Column Hall”). This 13-ha ensemble of majestic approaches, monumental stairways, throne rooms (Apadana), reception rooms, and dependencies is classified among the world’s greatest archaeological sites. The site is marked by a large terrace with its east side abutting the Kuh-e Rahmat (“Mount of Mercy”). The other three sides are formed by a retaining wall, varying in height with the slope of the ground from 13 to 41 feet (4 to 12 meters); on the west side, a magnificent double stair in two flights of 111 short stone steps leads to the top. On the terrace are the ruins of several colossal buildings, all constructed of a dark gray stone (often polished to a marble-like surface) from the adjacent mountain. According to Britannica, the stone was cut with the utmost precision into blocks of great size, which were laid without mortar; many of them are still in place. Especially striking are the huge columns, 13 of which still stand in the audience hall of Darius I (the Great; reigned 522–486 BC), known as the Apadana, the name given to a similar hall built by Darius at Susa. There are two more columns still standing in the entrance hall of the Gate of Xerxes, and a third has been assembled there from its broken pieces. In 1933 two sets of gold and silver plates recording in the three forms of cuneiform—ancient Persian, Elamite, and Babylonian—the boundaries of the Persian empire were discovered in the foundations of Darius’s hall of audience. Several inscriptions, cut in stone, of Darius I, Xerxes I, and Artaxerxes III indicate to which monarch the various buildings were attributed.

Create: May 16, 2021 Edit: May 16, 2021 Regional News