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VISA will focus on 5 key crypto areas

This is just the start but it is progress towards the solidification of the crypto movement! The first of the five areas mentioned by the VISA CEO is enabling consumers to purchase these currencies or Bitcoin, noting that they are exerting effort to ensure that they are facilitating the use of Visa cards to buy. The second one is allowing digital currency cash-outs to fiat, which means converting digital currency to fiat on a Visa credential, making the funds available for shopping at any of the 70 million Visa merchants. The third area is enabling financial institutions and fintech partners to offer crypto options for their customers. Kelly said they have created APIs that give customers of financial institutions the ability to purchase, hold and even trade digital currencies held by the first federally charted digital asset bank in the U.S., Anchorage. Meanwhile, the fourth area is settlement. With this regard, Kelly said, “We’ve upgraded our infrastructure to allow a financial institution to settle with these in a digital currency with stablecoin, starting with USDC.” Kelly said the last area of opportunity and, perhaps one of the most challenging, in the crypto space that they are focusing on is working with central banks.

Create: May 4, 2021 Edit: May 4, 2021 International News

Stratolaunch flies world's largest airplane on 2nd test flight

The biggest airplane ever built now has two flights under its belt. Stratolaunch's Roc carrier plane, which is being groomed to haul hypersonic vehicles aloft, conducted its second-ever test flight Thursday morning (April 29). The giant aircraft, which features a wingspan of 385 feet (117 meters), took off from Mojave Air and Space Port in southeastern California at 10:28 a.m. EDT (1428 GMT; 7:28 local California time) on a data-gathering shakeout cruise that lasted three hours and 14 minutes. Roc reached a maximum altitude of 14,000 feet (4,267 m) and a top speed of 199 mph (320 km/h) during Thursday's test flight, which Stratolaunch deemed a success. "We're very pleased with how the Stratolaunch aircraft performed today, and we are equally excited about how much closer the aircraft is to launching its first hypersonic vehicle," Stratolaunch chief operating officer Zachary Krevor said during a postflight news conference today. Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen established Stratolaunch in 2011 with the idea that Roc would be used to launch satellites in midair. But Allen died in October 2018 without seeing that vision become reality, or even seeing the twin-fuselage Roc get off the ground. The plane didn't make its first — and, until today, only — test flight until April 2019. The company was sold in October 2019 to its current owners, who recast Roc's role. The plane will now serve as a mobile launch platform for hypersonic vehicles, maneuverable craft that travel at least five times faster than the speed of sound. Stratolaunch is developing its own family of hypersonic vehicles, including a reusable 28-foot-long (8.5 m) craft called Talon-A, which will be the first to fly with Roc. But that won't happen for a while yet; Roc needs to make a number of additional solo flights first, company representatives said today. If all goes according to plan, the first drop tests with Roc and a Talon-A test article will occur early next year. An expendable version of Talon-A will reach hypersonic speeds later in 2022, and the first flight with the reusable Talon-A variant will follow in 2023, said Stratolaunch chief technology officer Daniel Millman. The data gathered during Talon-A flights might be of interest to the U.S. military, which has been developing its own hypersonic vehicles for years now, though none are operational yet. (Hypersonic vehicles are good weapon-delivery systems, because their maneuverability makes them tougher to counteract than traditional ballistic missiles.) "One of the areas that we're looking at is, how can we help the Department of Defense in mitigating risks for a lot of their expensive flight testing?" Millman said. "Our testbed has the ability to carry payloads. It has the ability to test materials. It has the ability to fly a variety of profiles that are of interest to folks across the spectrum both offensively and defensively in terms of hypersonics."

Create: May 4, 2021 Edit: May 4, 2021 International News

Hunden Partners Leads Solicitation Process for Food & Beverage Operator at Fort Worth Will Rogers Memorial Center

Hunden Strategic Partners (Hunden) issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the exclusive food and beverage operator at the Will Rogers Memorial Center (WRMC) in Fort Worth. Hunden is managing the solicitation and selection process on behalf of the City of Fort Worth (City), Texas. The City is seeking a qualified firm or team for the exclusive food and beverage operations (including concessions, catering, cafes, etc.) at the WRMC complex. The brand and experience of Fort Worth is intertwined with the catering and concession experience at the WRMC and as such, the new vendor must align with the vision for the WRMC as the premier venue of its kind in the world. Respondents ideally will have experience with equestrian or similar venues and a history of successfully curating a local F&B experience that best serves the customer base and supports a locality’s brand as a destination. Will Rogers Memorial Center is a world-class facility hosting more than one million visitors a year,” said Mike Crum, Director of the Public Events Department for the City of Fort Worth. “Our chosen food and beverage partner will elevate the operation to create a truly memorable, unique Fort Worth experience.” The F&B contract is expected to be negotiated and approved by December 31, 2021. The term of this contract, which will go into effect on January 13, 2022, is ten (10) years with five, one-year renewal options.

Create: May 1, 2021 Edit: May 1, 2021 International News

Hilton Launches Female Development Program in Sri Lanka

Hilton announced its partnership with the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (SLITHM) to launch Hilton Liya Diriya – a specially curated female development program in Sri Lanka. Translating to ‘female courage,’ Hilton Liya Diriya aims to provide training opportunities for local female students keen to build a career in hospitality. Selected participants will undergo two training phases to pick up practical knowledge, skills and experiences, involving a one-month period dedicated to theoretical training with SLITHM and a six-month industrial traineeship at one of Hilton’s properties in Sri Lanka. The establishment of the program is in line with Hilton’s Travel with Purpose 2030 goal of doubling its social impact investment, and underscores its continued commitment to ensuring inclusive growth, sustainable solutions and economic opportunities for all, even during these unprecedented times. Furthermore, by empowering its female participants and enabling them to pursue a career in hospitality, Hilton Liya Diriya also aims to create a positive impact on the community by increasing the historically lower1 labor force participation rate for women in Sri Lanka. On top of the training, participants will receive support from Hilton throughout the duration of the program, in the form of accommodation, allowance and mentoring. Upon graduation, they will also be awarded certifications, as well as employment opportunities at a Hilton property in Sri Lanka or abroad. Sri Lanka has shown immense potential for us over the years, evidenced by the resilience of the country, its promising tourism sector and ongoing improvements to infrastructure which have laid a strong foundation for us to kickstart our robust expansion plans,” said Paul Hutton, vice president, operations, Hilton in South East Asia. “Despite the challenges caused by the health pandemic, we continue to recognize its long-term prospects and have doubled down on our commitment to putting Sri Lanka on the global roadmap with the recent opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort in November – our third Hilton property in the country.” Commenting on the opportunity to further extend the Hilton Effect in Sri Lanka, Hutton added: “In line with our growing presence in the country, we also want to continue honoring our founder, Conrad Hilton, and his ambition to be the most hospitable company in the world, by doing our part for the communities we operate in. Through the introduction of Hilton Liya Diriya, we hope to leverage our scale and capacity to advance women’s economic empowerment in the country by identifying and developing the best local talents, and I look forward to seeing them excel in their careers with us.” Kimarli Fernando, chairperson of Sri Lanka Tourism, said: “We aspire to achieve a higher level of female participation in Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry, especially in the skilled and value creation areas, which would provide more opportunities for them to further their careers in the longer term. Currently, women make up less than 10 percent of the hospitality workforce locally, compared to 54 percent globally. This is a strategic change Sri Lanka Tourism is striving for and we are delighted to partner with Hilton on the Hilton Liya Diriya program, which is a major step forward to champion the strategic change in our workforce.”

Create: May 1, 2021 Edit: May 1, 2021 International News

Pivot Plans June Opening of The Kimpton Harper Hotel in Downtown Fort Worth

The highly anticipated Kimpton Harper Hotel debuts in downtown Fort Worth on June 2, 2021. Development Services Group, Inc., based in Memphis, TN, acquired the architectural landmark near Sundance Square from XTO Energy and oversaw the adaptive reuse to convert it from an office building into The Harper Hotel. Originally built in 1921 in the heart of downtown Fort Worth as the headquarters for Farmer’s and Mechanics Bank, the reimagining of this striking building coincides with the 100th anniversary of its original completion. The Harper Hotel is managed by Pivot, the lifestyle operating vertical of Davidson Hospitality Group. In the heart of downtown and three miles from the historic Fort Worth stockyards, the location offers a unique destination for travelers and locals alike with the renowned Sundance Square Plaza as well as shopping, entertainment, restaurants, and a lively bar scene—all just steps away. The Harper Hotel offers 226 guest rooms and suites for guests to enjoy, fit for business as well as pleasure. Designer Cynthia Forchielli of Forchielli Glynn brings the perfect blend of relaxed yet sophisticated design to every room, including handcrafted furniture, thoughtful details, brass pendant lights, woven baskets, and lively local art. Additionally, guests can find subtle nods to Fort Worth’s history, such as a panther figurine, referencing the ‘Panther City’ nickname, that greets guests upon opening the room closet. Guest rooms and suites offer luxurious Frette bedding, Atelier Bloem bath amenities, Bluetooth speaker systems, and plush bathrobes for ultimate relaxations. For guests wanting a little extra space to spread out, 31 one-bedroom suites offer these signature amenities and more, such as dreamy soaking tubs, wet bars, and gorgeous views of downtown Fort Worth and surrounding plains. For a morning or afternoon pick-me-up, The Harper Hotel offers complimentary coffee and tea service for guests and hosts a daily social hour from 5-6 p.m. in the living room lobby, the ideal common space for gathering, located next to check-in on the 24th floor. Guests can also take advantage of the state-of-the-art Fitness Center with high-end equipment, such as Peloton bikes. The Harper Hotel also offers a first-class culinary experience. Bringing contemporary Italian cuisine to downtown Fort Worth, Il Modo, helmed by Chef Matt Williams, keeps seasonality and sustainability in mind with offerings including house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and rustic-refined Italian dishes—all prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Restaurant and bar guests can also enjoy a thoughtful wine list created to harmonize with the cuisine and cocktails built around Italian classics. Il Modo is located on the ground floor, easily accessible for both travelers and locals, and the restaurant offers a view of its pasta-making room for a behind-the-scenes look. For special occasions, private dining is available, as well as pasta-making classes. Craft cocktails and libations pair best with sweeping views at Refinery 714, The Harper Hotel’s penthouse whiskey bar and cocktail lounge. Nestled on the 24th floor, adjacent to the living room lobby and check-in area, Refinery 714 offers a buzzing social scene as well as a space to unwind with robust whiskey offerings, classic cocktails, curated beers and wines, and a select menu for elevated bar bites. Perched high above downtown with unbeatable views, it easily feels like the neighborhood’s best-kept secret. Refinery 714 also offers a private dining room flanked by two floor-to-ceiling glass doors for a more intimate setting. With more than 10,000 square feet of event space, including the Sanquinet Boardroom on the 24th floor and the Centurion Ballroom on the second floor, along with meeting rooms and spaces for gatherings of all kinds, The Harper Hotel crafts event experiences spanning from classrooms and conferences to weddings with interiors and finishings that stay true to The Harper Hotel experience. Additionally, meeting rooms have built-in buffets, and personalized catering is available.

Create: May 1, 2021 Edit: May 1, 2021 International News

Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Completes Top-to-Bottom Multi-Phase Renovation

Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, Arizona’s largest hotel located in the heart of downtown, has been reimagined from top-to-bottom as part of Sheraton’s worldwide transformation of its guest experience vision. The newly renovated hotel, one of the first to display Sheraton’s new signature key elements, brings hope and renewal to the community as they prepare for a revival in tourism. Drawing on its roots as a community hub for locals and guests at flagship locations globally, the new approach for Sheraton creates an intuitive and holistic experience with places to connect, be productive and feel part of something. At Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, the modern, bold, open design pays tribute to the hotel’s iconic style, while adding a fresh, contemporary backdrop for guests to dine and imbibe in Phoenix.Marriott International’s new vision for Sheraton’s public spaces was brought to life at Sheraton Phoenix Downtown by Dallas, Texas based Looney & Associates, the interior design firm that counts Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, Ventana Big Sur and the iconic Hotel Del Coronado amongst its lauded hospitality projects. The studio of creatives has brought its penchant for color, texture and contrast to Sheraton Phoenix Downtown’s vision of community-minded spaces that feel warm and inviting for all guests. From sleek modern lines, marble countertops and accents that pop, the 1,004-room hotel is beckoning guests to connect in style in the heart of downtown Phoenix. “We are thrilled to re-introduce Sheraton Phoenix Downtown to our wonderful local community and welcome back travelers and guests who are making their return to Phoenix once again,” said General Manager Mike Ehmann. “Sheraton’s core value is to bring people together. We believe travelers will feel intrinsically linked to the Phoenix community and vice versa through the hotel’s concerted design elements that represent the heritage of the brand and warm textures of the region, and through engaging hotel programming that gives guests a sense of belonging.” Reimagined Community Spaces At the heart of the new experience at Sheraton Phoenix Downtown is the lobby. The expansive 19,000 square foot space acts as a public square for the hotel; a holistic, open area that invites people to join together or be alone amongst others, creating a sense of energy and belonging. With a flow that is natural, intuitive and uncomplicated, guests have what they need within arm’s reach, all set against an inviting backdrop that feels warm and comfortable yet refined. Anchoring the lobby is the brand’s signature “Community Table”, an inviting, purpose-built workspace that allow guests to work, eat and drink while soaking up the energy around them. Following Sheraton’s philosophy to embrace both form and function, these tables are custom designed with amenities to keep guests productive, including built-in lighting, outlets and wireless charging stations. Soundproof booths are strategically placed throughout the lobby, perfect for a spontaneous phone call to connect privately with friends, family or colleagues from afar. Guests can also make use of six uniquely-designed “Studios”, flexible gathering spaces available to book whenever a guest needs it. Built on raised platforms and enclosed with glass, the Studios allow guests to contribute to the energy of the public space while also providing privacy and focus. As travelers have a heightened desire for social-distancing, the Studios – ranging from 125 to 600 square feet – are perfect for everything from remote working to collaborating or celebrating with an intimate group, and allow guests to control the lighting, temperature and order food and drink for delivery. Guests can book the spaces through an on-demand, contactless booking system, providing them with a unique and flexible option outside of the hotel’s existing 110,000+ square feet of extensive meeting space. Built with its global, productivity-focused guest in mind, Sheraton Phoenix Downtown’s new elevated food & beverage offering creates a focal point in the lobby experience. &More by Sheraton is part bar, part coffee shop, part grab-and-go market and a central pillar of the new Sheraton vision. The outlet transitions guests seamlessly from day to night with food & beverage options that are locally-sourced, easy to consume while working and customizable to accommodate all tastes and time schedules. Open from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., guests can begin their day with a specialty brew and cap it off with a signature cold brew gin and tonic. As of Summer 2021, guests and locals alike will also be able to enjoy a new full-service restaurant in the lobby. Refreshed Guest Rooms The 1,000+ guest rooms received a “studs to ceiling” transformation, expertly designed by Baskervill. Evoking a timeless comfort, guests are welcomed into a bright, well-lit room with warm, residential appeal, comprised of soft finishes and light wood tones accentuated with black metal accents. A platform bed and crisp white bedding centers the room of curated furniture that feels as welcoming as a friend’s guestroom. A houndstooth chair gives a pop of classic Sheraton pattern while the new 65-inch televisions are mounted to a noise cancelling, woven fabric paneling making a gorgeous statement wall. A bench running beneath the tv provides additional seating. The rooms have been reimagined with new tools for productivity, such as a height-adjustable work table, integrated power and charging and layered lighting. The bathroom features a walk-in shower or bath surrounded by neutral porcelain walls while a light wood tone vanity and backlit mirror with modern polished chrome fixtures and black finishes complement the guestroom design. Sheraton Fitness Sheraton Fitness will cater to healthy travelers courtesy of a $850,000 makeover and new partner, Technogym. The fitness center will feature state-of-the-art equipment as well as on-demand fitness classes. The fitness center will also feature an outdoor Lap Pool surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas, opening Early Summer. Sheraton Club The Sheraton Club Lounge, an exclusive space for Marriott Bonvoy Elite members and guests purchasing Sheraton Club access, has also undergone an upgrade as part of the transformation. The new design ensures the space is welcoming, elevated and purposefully designed for a layered and engaging experience that transitions seamlessly with activations from morning to evening. Guests will find updated food and beverage offerings, premium amenities, enhanced connectivity, and 24/7 access to provide a private environment. Commitment to Clean After temporarily closing in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sheraton Phoenix Downtown has also made several adjustments to meet current demands for safe, clean and socially-distanced accommodations and programming. With safety and wellbeing a top priority for guests and employees, Sheraton Phoenix Downtown follows Marriott International’s Commitment to Clean guidelines, created in partnership with leading experts in food and water safety, hygiene and infection prevention, and hotel operations. These protocols include mandated mask-wearing for all guests and associates within the hotel, and the use of disinfectants recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization to sanitize surfaces in the hotels.

Create: May 1, 2021 Edit: May 1, 2021 Regional News

SOVA “The Social Hotel” Readies for Summertime Debut in Downtown Dallas

A new type of hotel, fresh to the shores of America, is on the way and it is on the brink of openings its doors in Downtown Dallas this May. Travel is frequently synonymous with adventure and SOVA Hotels has the singular goal of providing guests with more stories than anywhere else. This boutique hotel incorporates elements from all over the world and ties them together to offer a sense of community and comfort. SOVA guests stay in micro-rooms, and in exchange for smaller spaces receive luxurious elements sourced from around the world at a noticeably lower rate. Guests check in at the lively SOVA bar and are given recommendations and daily activities by the local “Travel Guides” on staff. Developed by 27-year-old twin brothers, Blake Shirk and Brandon Shirk, SOVA was born out of the pair’s passion for traveling with the need to also save money. Noticing a gap in the U.S. for such a hotel concept, they decided to start their own project, creating high-end, minimalist rooms amongst carefully designed, inviting group spaces. Every aspect inside SOVA tells a story, which is exactly how the Shirks envision each guest’s experience to be. “What stories do you have from your life?” Asked the Shirks. “We would wager that many of the stories you share from past years are from your travel experiences. We want to help weave those stories and ensure that you have memorable ones with new friends.” The SOVA team chose a location with walkable proximity to dozens of lively bars and restaurants, downtown hotspots, and the Dallas Farmers Market. Each room combines features from 50 diverse countries, offering a luxurious haven to lay down at night before taking on another day of adventure. SOVA will open to the public in late May and will be located at 2105 Commerce Street.

Create: May 1, 2021 Edit: May 1, 2021 International News

Iran eyes UNESCO status for five intangible elements

Iran seeks to register five intangible elements on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in near future, Mehr reported on Tuesday. The country has recently submitted [revised] dossiers for the ancient festivities of Mehregan and Yalda, crafting and playing [the stringed instrument of] the Oud, traditional craft of silk spinning, and Turkmen Duzi (a kind of traditional textile being practiced by Iranian Turkman tribes), the report said. Yalda (the birth of a new sun), which is also called Yalda Night, is celebrated on the eve of the winter solstice, which falls on the last day of Azar (the last month of autumn in the Iranian calendar year). On that graceful night, the winter chill is vanquished and the warmth of love embraces the entire family. It’s a time for pleasant family reunions that entails laughter, merriment, and good cheer. According to UNESCO, Yalda ceremonies, in the best way, point to cultural diversity and human creativity, especially when one considers the wide range of the communities that celebrate it. Mehregan celebration, which falls on the 196th day of the Iranian calendar year that usually equals October 2 in the Gregorian calendar, brings together clusters of Iranian Zoroastrians to hold reunions in celebration of Mithra, an ancient goddess of friendship, affection, and love. A key feature for the event is large spreads in purple laden with various ingredients, dishes, and elements each on behalf of a particular belief. Fruits, vegetables, dried nuts, sweets, rosewater, grilled lamb meat, lotus seeds, and silver coins, and a scale are typically placed, the latter symbolizes autumnal equinox. The oud is a pear-shaped stringed instrument frequently used in Persian and Middle Eastern music whose construction is similar to that of the lute. It was thought that this musical instrument was invented by nomad tribes since it was light and mobile. Some believe it was originated in the Caucasus region, other sources report more western regions as a point of origin. Some findings show an early elliptical design of Oud found in the ruins of Shush, Iran. Some experts theorize that a priest is shown to be playing it in that depiction. The Islamic Republic expects to reap a bonanza from its numerous tourist spots 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, Iran aims to increase the number of tourist arrivals from 4.8 million in 2014 to 20 million in 2025.

Create: May 1, 2021 Edit: May 1, 2021 Regional News

West Asia’s longest glass suspension bridge being built in Kordestan

West Asia’s longest glass suspension bridge with a length of 450 meters is being constructed in the village of Negel, west province of Kordestan, the provincial tourism chief has said. The suspension bridge is a part of a bigger tourist complex including a zip line, eagle zip line, bungee jumping, and rafting, which is unique in the country, Yaqub Guylian announced on Tuesday. The complex also includes a restaurant, pergola, amusement park, and eight accommodation units, the official added. A budget of 500 billion rials (about $12 million at the official exchange rate of 42,000 rials) has been allocated to the project, which aims at attracting more domestic and foreign tourists to the region, he explained. A suspension bridge made of curved sheets of glass, which is the first of its kind in the world, was inaugurated in Ardebil province, northwest Iran in January 2020. However, inaugurated in 2015, and with 345 meters long, 3 meters wide, and 80 meters high, the Meshginshahr suspension bridge is said to be the largest of its kind in West Asia. Last Year Ardebil’s tourism officials announced that the world’s longest suspension bridge with a length of 500 meters is being constructed in the province and is expected to come on stream in June 2021. 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 28, 2021 Edit: Apr 28, 2021 Regional News

Seeing the Post-Pandemic Travel Landscape as an Opportunity for Hotels to ‘Be Direct’

In New York City, the sidewalk cafes are bustling, the parks are full of picnics, and the city’s attractions are coming back to life. The city is blooming again, cautiously but happily. And tourists are coming back to town. The same is true across the United States. While hoteliers are optimistic that the industry is starting its path to recovery, it remains impossible to overstate Covid’s effect on travel. The late Arne Sorenson, Marriott CEO, estimated in the early stages of the pandemic that “Covid-19 is having a more severe and sudden economic impact on our business than 9/11 and the 2009 financial crisis combined.” STR has reported YoY occupancy decreases of more than 50% nationwide. Covid-19 was a collapse, not a downturn, with properties and teams hollowed out. While numbers are trending in the right direction, there is uncertainty around the speed and overall strength of recovery, particularly in segments like international leisure, corporate, and group. Every fellow hotelier we’ve spoken with this year is realistic about the amount of work that remains to bring the industry back. Yet several also discussed how, when looked at from a certain perspective, they see new opportunities going forward. For years, managing a hotel distribution network has felt like tying your shoes on the run—impossible to finish any one task because the next step is always on top of you. But the gradual ramp-up this spring and summer is the perfect chance for hotels to be strategic about their return to business, and to set a foundation for better, healthier distribution strategy in the long-term. Recent data about changing guest preferences post-Covid also provides hotels with reason for optimism. Travelers Are Ready to Form New Habits Marketers know that changing a person’s behavior is hard; people are creatures of habit. Academics estimate that 45% of our daily behaviors are habitual, cued by triggers we aren’t aware of and carried out automatically. Charles Duhigg’s book, The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do In Life and Business, is about the science behind our habits, and explores some of the ways forward-thinking retailers leverage data to better understand these habits and more easily change them. Target Corp. and its specific strategies for using big data in its marketing campaigns was the subject of a long-form excerpt of Duhigg’s book that ran in the New York Times. The whole piece is full of wonderful insights about e-commerce, even years later, but some of Target’s specific conclusions about customer habits and purchasing are especially relevant as we consider the post-pandemic travel landscape. The core learning is that while ingrained shopping habits are usually too difficult to change with even the most ingenious ad campaign, “there are some brief periods in a person’s life when old routines fall apart and buying habits are suddenly in flux.” The greatest of these life moments is the birth of a child, “when parents are exhausted and overwhelmed and their shopping patterns and brand loyalties are up for grabs.” If Target could identify new parents, they could identify people whose lives were in such a state of flux that their habits could be changed and they could be made into better, more loyal customers. The whole planet is in the process of emerging from just such a moment. Our lives have all changed shape immensely; more than a few of us feel “exhausted and overwhelmed” and our old routines have all fallen apart. But travelers are eager to have new experiences again, and as tourism returns we are already seeing trends in post-pandemic booking habits that look very positive for hoteliers. After a full decade of losing market share to OTAs and third parties, hotels are seeing the direct channel get a boost this spring, with the uncertainties of traveling post-Covid making guests eager for direct communication with the hotel. Skift’s Hotel Distribution Report from November 2020 stated that hoteliers are reporting increases of more than 10% for the Voice channel, with curious guests calling to ask questions about newly implemented cleaning policies, the changing availability of property restaurants, and the status of area attractions. Properties and brands employing chat functionality are seeing enormous traffic increases over those channels as well, “thousands of percent above what they used to be.” Guests have also learned that booking direct offers the most flexibility, with some OTAs refusing to offer refunds and consumers filing complaints. Guests’ renewed preference for direct communication with the hotel, and the direct booking increases that come with it, seems likely to continue as long as the effects of the pandemic linger, through 2021 and beyond. OTAs will be a major engine driving recovery; their role in discovery and filtering for new guests is more important than it has ever been. But for years now the hotel industry has lamented OTAs’ control over the guest relationship, with multiple industry-leading brands spending millions of dollars on “Book Direct” marketing campaigns to try to coax customers back to their direct channel. It seems like over the next 12 months, travelers’ changing habits and preferences may give hoteliers a second chance to make direct bookings the centerpiece of their relationship with their guests. Hoteliers Are Eager to Embrace Evolving Travel Norms It’s not only guests whose habits have changed post-Covid. Hotel leaders are in the same boat. Routines across every department have fallen apart and had to be rebuilt or, more often, reinvented. Every hotelier’s job now includes problem solving and innovation in addition to managing known challenges. The only constant over the past 12 months has been change. But among the revenue and marketing professionals we’ve spoken with, there is the sense that for well-prepared, nimble organizations there are opportunities post-Covid-19 that didn’t exist before. Some of the tangles in the distribution landscape have been cleared away, and for the moment there is more space to breathe. Over the next few months, top-of-funnel ad buys, social media, email marketing, and all of the outbound components of your marketing ecosystem will restart. Business leaders will begin to build new data sets. Conventions for public spaces and neighborhood venues will evolve. And guests will behave according to new, post-pandemic norms, which includes booking direct at higher rates than they had before. In a dynamic environment, flexibility and efficiency are critical. Brands that can make decisions the most quickly, with the most accurate data and the fewest tools, will be the most adaptable. Aligning your tech stack to your distribution strategy is the first place to start. Hotels that prioritize guest experience and lead with their direct channel needs when it comes to distribution will be the ones that are best positioned to take advantage of the changing landscape. This is the first of a multi-year recovery process. Going forward, each month should be better than the last. Both travelers and hoteliers will spend 2021 putting healthy new habits in place. The challenges of 2021 are substantial, but for once they don’t feel like tying your shoes on the run.

Create: Apr 27, 2021 Edit: Apr 27, 2021 International News

Rosewood Partners With Mitsubishi Estate Co. for 2024 Opening of Rosewood Miyakojima in Japan

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts® has been appointed by Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd. to manage Rosewood Miyakojima on Mikayo Island in the Okinawan archipelago, opening in 2024. The 55-villa, ultra-luxury resort represents the first Rosewood property in Japan, in a destination acclaimed for its exquisite beaches with several of the country’s most scenic locations. Miyako Island and nearby isles offer miles of soft, white sand with endless vistas of turquoise-blue sea. Aquatic adventures range from snorkeling at Yabiji, the largest coral reef expanse in Japan, to diving through underwater caverns teeming with marine life and outstanding deep-sea fishing. Approached through verdant sugar cane fields, Rosewood Miyakojima will occupy a secluded peninsula surrounded on three sides by white sand beaches, dramatic rock formations and stunning ocean vistas. Arriving visitors will feel the sand beneath their feet within a 20-minute drive from Miyako Airport and 30-minute drive from Shimojishima Airport which receives direct flights from Hong Kong and major cities in Japan. The resort’s 55 villa accommodations will feature private pools, landscaped gardens and unobstructed sea views. Conceived by Netherlands-based Studio Piet Boon, the architecture and interiors are seamlessly designed to immerse guests in the natural surroundings and express harmony with the island through the extensive use of local materials. Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei Inc. is providing local architectural expertise and support in realizing the design vision. Four restaurants and bars will include relaxed beachfront concepts showcasing fresh seafood, prized island-raised beef, locally distilled spirits and craft beer. With a stunning seascape as a backdrop, the resort’s indoor and outdoor event venues will host unforgettable destination weddings and private celebrations. On-site recreation will include a standalone Rosewood Explorer’s Club, Rosewood’s program for younger guests designed to inspire creativity and imagination, encourage adventure, discovery and social responsibility through unique experiences attuned to the destination. Asaya, Rosewood’s pioneering integrated wellness concept, will offer treatment rooms set amid private gardens, indoor and outdoor hydrotherapy facilities and a menu of programs and services influenced by local healing traditions. Beyond the resort, guests will discover an abundance of vividly picturesque sites, from the majestic natural stone arch of nearby Sunayama beach to the perfectly poised lighthouse at Higashi-Hennazaki Cape (a nationally designated “Place of Scenic Beauty”) and the seven-kilometer stretch of Yonaha Maehama, regularly ranked as Japan’s best beach and renowned for its cinematic sunsets. Even a brief sojourn will reveal distinctive customs, culture, dialects, cuisine and crafts as well as the beguiling ways of the Okinawan uchinanchu (“sea people”) who inhabit the island. “We are tremendously excited that our first presence in Japan will be in this exquisite location, where Rosewood’s signature A Sense of Place concept will be expressed amidst such a spectacular setting and rich culture,” said Sonia Cheng, chief executive officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. “We are honored to have Mitsubishi Estate as our partner and very grateful for the trust they have placed in us to offer this exceptional experience.” “Rosewood’s sensitivity to its locales and its dedication to the highest levels of hospitality excellence, which are perfectly in line with our philosophy of urban developments, inspired us to appoint them to manage this very special resort,” said Atsushi Nakajima, senior executive officer, Mitsubishi Estate Co., Ltd. “We are fully confident that Rosewood Miyakojima will become one of the world’s most coveted vacation destinations when it opens its doors.”

Create: Apr 27, 2021 Edit: Apr 27, 2021 International News

Cambria Hotels Marks Expansion in Airport Markets With Orlando Debut

Cambria Hotels, an upscale brand franchised by Choice Hotels International, Inc., continues its domestic expansion with the opening of the Cambria Hotel Orlando Airport. The five-story, 108-room hotel is the brand’s fourth property to open this year, joining the Cambria Hotel Fort Lauderdale Beach, Cambria Hotel Rock Hill – University Center and the Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Capitol Riverfront, as it continues to add new locations throughout the U.S. in top-tier markets. Cambria Hotels is set to open two more airport-area hotels this year in Austin, Texas and Nashville, Tennessee. Located at 7986 South Conway Rd., the Cambria Hotel Orlando Airport is less than two miles from the Orlando International Airport and a short drive from world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. For travelers looking for a day on the water, Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach are approximately one hour’s drive from the hotel. The Cambria Hotel Orlando Airport is also a 30-minute drive to the Orange County Convention Center and downtown Orlando’s numerous attractions, such as the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, the Amway Center, live entertainment, fine dining and breweries. Luxury and outlet shopping destinations, including The Florida Mall, Mall at Millenia and the Orlando International Premium Outlets, are just minutes from the hotel and collectively attract millions of visitors annually. “As more people are increasingly vaccinated and returning to travel, we’re working to give travelers even more Cambria hotels in their favorite destinations, where they can experience the local flavor of an area while being able to get outdoors, relax, work or unwind with our thoughtful upscale amenities. The debut of the Cambria Hotel Orlando Airport perfectly illustrates our expansion strategy, as Orlando is currently one of the most searched destinations for summer leisure flights,” said Janis Cannon, senior vice president, upscale brands, Choice Hotels. “We’re eager to add new hotels this year that connect our guests to their ideal markets across the nation, including Los Angeles and Napa, California; Austin, Texas; Louisville, Kentucky; and Nashville, Tennessee.” The Cambria Hotel Orlando Airport features upscale amenities and approachable indulgences that appeal to modern travelers, including: Relaxing outdoor pool and spacious patio with views of the nearby wetland conservation area.Multi-purpose indoor and outdoor spaces for productive work or relaxation.Locally inspired design décor, reflecting the unique personality of the surrounding community.Contemporary and sophisticated guest rooms, complete with design forward fixtures, abundant lighting and plush bedding, as well as airport runway and lake views.Immersive, spa-style bathrooms with Bluetooth mirrors.Onsite dining featuring freshly made food, local craft beer, wine and specialty cocktails, now also including to-go options.Multi-function meeting and event spaces.State-of-the-art fitness center. All Choice-branded hotels are participating in Commitment to Clean, an initiative that builds upon the strong foundation of franchisees’ long-standing dedication to cleanliness with enhanced training and best practices for deep cleaning, disinfecting and social distancing. Additionally, Cambria guests can limit their interactions with hotel staff by using the Cambria Contactless Concierge Service, a text messaging service for housekeeping requests, to-go food orders, meeting room requests and more. The Cambria Hotel Orlando Airport was developed by Green Stay Hospitality LLC, part of Reddy Hotels, Orlando, and construction and design were managed by Florida-based SMC Construction and MILES architecture group, respectively. There are currently over 55 Cambria hotels open across the U.S. in popular cities such as Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Nashville, Houston, and Phoenix, with 80 hotels in the pipeline.

Create: Apr 27, 2021 Edit: Apr 27, 2021 International News