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Tourism, transport ministers ink MOU to boost maritime tourism

Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan on Sunday signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Transport and Urban Development Minister Mohammad Eslami to deepen cooperation and expand bilateral ties. The MOU aims at developing maritime tourism and make the best use of its potential in the southern and northern coasts of the country, according to a press release issued by the tourism ministry. Promoting the culture of using the sea as a tool to increase social vitality, development of coastal activities in the form of environmentally-friendly plans and programs, and creating the necessary grounds for cooperation and exchange of knowledge and information were also among the topics of the agreement. The traditional skills of building and sailing Iranian Lenj boats in the Persian Gulf was another issue discussed by the two ministers to find a way to safeguard the endangered UNESCO-registered tradition for future generations. Speaking on the sidelines of the signing ceremony, Mounesan said that the tourism ministry tries its best to leave single product tourism behind and diversify tourism products. A focus on the country’s natural capacities along with the historical and cultural capacities could attract more domestic and foreign tourists as well as create more job opportunities in some deprived areas, he explained. He also expressed hope that constructing seaside hotels on the northern and southern coasts and bringing the international cruise ships would also boost maritime tourism in the country. For his part, Eslami said that having a well-organized program for the development of beaches and the use of marine recreation is a priority for the transport ministry. Over the past couple of years, the Islamic Republic has made various efforts to exploit maritime tourism potential by developing hospitality infrastructures, diversifying sea routes, and drawing private sector investors along its vast southern coasts. Prosperous maritime tourism could help the county to meet its ambitious target of attracting 20 million annual tourists by 2025. It also keeps an eye on tourism developments in the Caspian Sea in the north.

Create: Mar 2, 2021 Edit: Mar 2, 2021 Regional News

I invite all travelers interested in culture to visit Iran: Venezuelan tourism minister

“I invite all [potential] travelers who are interested in culture to visit Iran and see that Iran is a peaceful and hospitable country,” Venezuela’s Minister of Tourism and Foreign Trade Ali Padron Paredes has said. “I am stunned by the beauties of Isfahan”, Padron Paredes added in an interview with CHTN on Thursday while touring the ancient city during his four-day visit to the Islamic Republic. The minister had toured several travel destinations and museums in Kerman before flying to Isfahan. He called his visit to Kerman as memorable. “I convey to the people and the government of Iran greetings of the people and the government of Venezuela.” “I enjoyed the journey to Iran and I want to experience this pleasure again. Iran has very hospitable and friendly people who are also friendly with the Venezuelan people,” the minister stated. Before setting off for Isfahan, Padron Paredes and his Iranian counterpart Ali-Asghar Mounesan inked a memorandum of understanding to deepen mutual tourism ties. Back in October, Mounesan exchanged views with former Venezuelan Tourism and Foreign Trade Minister Felix, Ramon Plasencia Gonzalez, in a video conference to deepen tourism relations, especially through simplifying visa rules, launching fam tours, and setting up exhibits. They also agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding in a bid to broaden bilateral ties. Last November, Mounesan said that visa-free access and direct flights are the two important advantages for Iran and Venezuela to develop tourism cooperation. The relationship between Venezuela and Iran became more serious following an official visit by the then Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez to Tehran in 2001. Isfahan, the capital of a province of the same name, is nicknamed “Nesf-e-Jahan” which is translated into “half the world”, meaning it contains fully half of the world's wonders. In its heyday, it was also one of the largest cities in the region with a population of nearly one million. The cool blue tiles of Isfahan's Islamic buildings, and the city's majestic bridges, contrast perfectly with the encircling hot, dry Iranian countryside. Big and sprawling Kerman is something of a cultural melting pot, blending various regional cultures over time. It is also home to rich tourist spots and historical sites including bazaars, mosques, caravanserais, and ruins of ancient urban areas.

Create: Feb 26, 2021 Edit: Feb 26, 2021 International News

Nobu Partners With SIGNA Real Estate for Nobu Hotel in Elbtower Hamburg, Germany

Nobu Hospitality, the global lifestyle brand founded by Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro and Meir Teper, is delighted to announce its continuing global expansion into the “Gate to the World,” Hamburg, Germany. “We are very happy to be working with SIGNA in developing the Nobu Hotel in the great city of Hamburg,” stated Robert De Niro and Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Founders of Nobu Hospitality. The Nobu Hotel and Restaurant will be located within the Elbtower, a project by SIGNA Real Estate, one of Europe’s leading property companies. The Elbtower will be a mixed-use development destination encompassing premium office space and the Nobu Hotel and Restaurant set within the tallest high-rise in the city. Timo Herzberg, CEO SIGNA Real Estate Germany remarks, “The partnership with Nobu Hospitality in the launch of the Nobu Hotel and Restaurant Hamburg underscores the compelling Elbtower development as Northern Germany’s tallest skyscraper. Hamburg as a destination fits seamlessly within the Nobu Hotel and Restaurant collection and will be embraced by our prestigious office tenants in the Elbtower as the most exclusive destination in Hamburg.” Trevor Horwell, CEO Nobu Hospitality comments, “We are extremely honoured and excited to be working with SIGNA on this unique project. This is the first project in this growing partnership, and we are exploring other destinations with SIGNA. Hamburg is an economic powerhouse in Germany and is an exciting destination for travellers whether for business or pleasure and perfectly fits with our global clientele. The Elbtower itself is a very special project planned as Hamburg’s world class dynamic lifestyle destination with our Nobu Hotel and Restaurant sitting as its core.” Rising 245m and 64 stories over the River Elbe, the Elbtower is designed by celebrated architectural firm, David Chipperfield Architects, and will complete the city’s silhouette with its striking and curved façade. Forming a designed counterpoint to the famed Elbphilharmonie concert hall and serving as an entrance marker to the prestigious HafenCity district. The Elbtower will house the Nobu Hotel and Restaurant, the tower itself will be comprised of flexibly designed office spaces with unparalleled views of the city and beyond. The ground floors, with their innovative layouts, will form the hub of the Elbtower community and play a significant role in positioning the Elbtower as the most attractive place to work, sleep, eat and drink, shop and socialise in Hamburg. The offering will comprise of a variety of retail shops, restaurants, and co-working spaces. The Elbtower will add to The SIGNA Group’s portfolio of exclusive real estate properties in prime city locations around Europe. The Nobu Hotel Elbtower Hamburg will offer 191 spaciously designed guest rooms and suites, a 200-seat Nobu restaurant, a stylish terrace bar and lounge with views of the River Elbe, and a state-of-the-art fitness and wellness facility. In addition to the restaurant and private dining rooms, the hotel will offer sophisticated event space for corporate and social gatherings as well as an outdoor terrace. Another highlight will be a Nobu private members club for the local community where members will benefit from a private lounge with a food and beverage offering, access to the hotel’s fitness and wellness facility as well as exclusive members only events. Nobu is one of the world’s most celebrated luxury hospitality brands renowned for its award-winning “new style” Japanese cuisine and exceptional hotel offerings in the world’s most desirable locales, with heartfelt service, energized public spaces and instinctive design.

Create: Feb 26, 2021 Edit: Feb 26, 2021 International News

Auro Hotels Opens AC Hotel by Marriott Greenville Downtown

Auro Hotels is pleased to announce the opening of its AC Hotel by Marriott Greenville Downtown located at the corner of Main and Broad streets in the heart of Greenville, SC. The eight-story hotel features 196 guestrooms and suites, seven distinct food and beverage concepts, nearly 29,000 square feet of meeting and event space, and a private collection of art featuring more than 100 works by 35 local artists. Auro Hotels also celebrates the opening of the first of the hotel’s seven food and beverage concepts, Paloma, a Mediterranean-inspired tapas bar located on the ground floor with indoor and outdoor dining. The space is separated by a NanaWall that opens to chic tables with white umbrellas for al fresco dining. Auro Hotels will debut its additional food and beverage concepts located throughout the project this April including Juniper, the 16,000 square-foot rooftop space with multiple high-energy dining zones, as well as The Press Room, a modern speakeasy that will provide an intimate cocktail bar experience. “The opening of the AC Hotel Greenville Downtown and Paloma marks an exciting milestone for Auro Hotels,” said DJ Rama, president and chief executive officer. “This project is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity due to its location, scale, level of detail and amenities, as well as a unique opportunity to celebrate our hometown of Greenville. The hotel, along with the thoughtfully-curated food and beverage concepts, will be treasured by visitors and the local community for generations.” The AC Hotel Greenville Downtown is anchored by six pillars including textile mills, the art scene, bygone spaces, nature and mountains, community and The Greenville News, whose offices were previously located on the site. The destination and beloved local area have inspired the look and feel of the property and its seven restaurants and bars: Juniper, The Secret Garden, Fire Box, The Press Room, Paloma, Social Burger and AC Kitchen. Design elements that reference Greenville include a dramatic metal mesh curtain suspended above the bar in Paloma nodding to The Peace Center as well as the entrance to The Press Room, which will incorporate cherished relics from The Greenville News archives. The hotel’s robust art collection beautifully complements the modern design and features works by both emerging and established artists in a range of mediums and styles. According to general manager John Deck, “Auro Hotels has created an unparalleled product that will be led by a very talented team that shares a passion for hospitality and the city of Greenville, and together, we are pleased to open our doors to visitors and local residents. In addition to being Greenville’s newest hotel, we look forward to becoming one of its top destinations for dining and entertainment, meetings and events, and weddings. The future of this project, with Greenville as its backdrop, is very bright.”

Create: Feb 26, 2021 Edit: Feb 26, 2021 International News

Vision Hospitality Group Plans Spring Opening of The Grady Hotel

Vision Hospitality Group announces its newest hotel destination, The Grady Hotel, is slated to open Spring 2021. Nestled in the heart of Louisville’s downtown Market District at 601 W Main St, in a historic building dating back to the 19th century, The Grady is deeply rooted in Louisville’s rich past. The 51-key luxury hotel is located at the corner of W Main Street and N 6th Street, just steps away from the Muhammed Ali Center, Frazier History Museum, Louisville Slugger Museum, distillery row, and many of the area’s buzziest restaurants and bars. “The warm hospitality of Bourbon City lives on in a refined and gracious setting at The Grady,” said Laurent Géroli, General Manager at The Grady. “Guests will be surprised and delighted by local in-room amenities and sophisticated design, paying homage to the city and building’s history.” Commissioned in 1883 by pharmacist J.B. Wilder, the original building housed an apothecary, where Wilder concocted his own medicinal bourbon, sold alongside a host of remedies and elixirs. Another original resident of the building in the 1920’s was Swann-Abram Hat Co., most prominently known for designing the first hats worn at the Kentucky Derby. Named after the late Grady Clay, beloved local journalist and key contributor to the New Urbanism movement, The Grady is a historic gem that embraces the vibrant urban renaissance of Louisville. “We are thrilled to have had an opportunity to restore this historic building and tell Bourbon City’s story through the lens of the hotel,” said Mitch Patel, Vision Hospitality Group President & CEO. “Guests can expect authentic guidance to notable attractions and the neighborhood’s hidden gems, encouraging them to venture beyond the hotel walls.” Accommodations and Amenities The elegant hotel fosters a sense of belonging, celebrating the Louisville story through an approach that honors tradition and redefines modern opulence. Guests are invited to see the Grady through the eyes of a child – a seek-and-find treasure trove – with delights to unlock and vintage keys to unlock them. Surprises and good luck charms abound at the Grady from the complimentary honor bar to signature services. Guests will find horseshoes – to hold in the luck (and remind them of the city’s racing heritage), shamrocks – once engraved on coins to promote the Swann Hat Company, and butterflies and bees – both state symbols and allusions to The Greatest – Louisville’s very own Muhammad Ali. Guests can wrap themselves in silky robes reminiscent of the beloved boxer, they can spot the sparrow – totem of steadfast service, or behold Grady Green – a luxurious jade, a symbol of serenity, harmony, and balance. A complimentary artisanal breakfast is served daily or delivered to rooms for a nominal service fee. Design and Decor The Grady promises an experience and design unmatched in Louisville – “a zestful curiosity about the world” – rooted in tradition, resonating with a sophisticated charm that is both warm and contemporary. The hotel prides itself on details and discovery; displays of patina metals and smooth, dark textures tell the story of Louisville’s bourbon heritage, while hints of lush greens voice an affinity for the City of Parks and the outdoors. The Grady pays homage to its storied past through distinctive touchpoints, including the restoration of its renaissance revival-style façade clad with ornamental detailing. Each of its 51 guest rooms provide pops of navy, copper and maroon, featuring 10-15’ original reclaimed wood ceilings, tufted headboards, and an array of locally-inspired art. Similarly, the hotel’s public spaces feature warm and inviting tones, complete with a library area, art gallery and central fireplace for guests to gather. Food and Beverage Intimately steeped in Louisville’s history, The Wild Swann exudes modern southern elegance and rich heritage, paying homage to the city’s iconic history and the legacy of famous cocktails all over the world. Bestowing tribute to the classic styles of the Swann-Abram Hat Co. and J.B. Wilder, guests enter a world of hand-crafted beverages, fastidious service, and delicious small plates. The Wild Swann’s bar keepers and hosts hold numerous secrets of the city. Ask about the “Swann Song” while sipping meticulously crafted cocktails from gold-rimmed glasses, and they will tell you a story or two.

Create: Feb 26, 2021 Edit: Feb 26, 2021 International News

Iran to develop tourism infrastructure in Hendurabi Island

Iran will be developing tourism infrastructure in Hendurabi Island, which is situated west of the touristic Kish Island in the Persian Gulf. “Hendurabi, with an area of about a quarter of Kish, has beautiful beaches and nature. And it has a valuable capacity for the development of travel and ecotourism….It has also enormous capacity to attract large domestic and foreign investors,” Mehr quoted Kish Free Zone Organization Director Gholamhossein Mozaffari as saying on Monday. “A consortium consisting of banks and active holdings in the country is being formed to implement the [already-formulated] comprehensive development plan of Hondurabi,” Mozaffari said. “Kish Island, even during coronavirus pandemic, has enjoyed a tourism boom… [for instance] in the last two months, its occupancy rate of hotels has been 98 percent, which indicates the unique tourism capacity of the region.” When it comes to the southern islands of Iran, people tend to choose Kish, Qeshm, and Hangam Island. However, Hendurabi is just as amazing as these though less known. Being far from the constant visit of tourists, this sort of remote island in the Persian Gulf has preserved many of its natural beauties. It can provide a lot of fun water and beach activities. Swimming, above all, is one of the most pleasant things to do in the crystal waters. Hendurabi is a small island of about 23 square kilometers, located between Kish Island and Lavan Island. It is flat land with no high mountains or hills. The highest point of the island is some 45 meters high. Hendurabi has an old village of the same name. The material used in the construction of houses used to be stone, coral, and stucco. However, some of these houses have been renovated recently. The village also contains a school, shop, and a supermarket. From February to June, the beaches of the island turn to a turtle hatchery. All the turtles of any size go to this area for hatching their eggs. The scenery of turtles being born out of the eggs and running to the water can be one of the most eye-catching moments of your travel. On the other hand, watching the colorful fish while diving is just another fun thing to do.

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

We have gained permission for limited New Year travels: deputy tourism minister

Iran’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Ministry has gained official permission for organizing limited intercity travels during the Iran New Year vacations, which begins on March 21. “We have obtained permission for limited Noruz trips from the National Headquarters for Coronavirus Control,” the deputy tourism minister, Vali Teymouri, announced on Tuesday. With less than a month to go till the start of the Iranian New Year, which has long been associated with millions of domestic travels, the ministry wants to find a way to partially revive the already-slumped travels in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. “The tourism ministry has held several meetings with the National Headquarters for the Coronavirus Control during with we discussed the issues in detail. Based on our strategies, we proposed two travel models that can be implemented following health protocols in the country,” Teymouri said last week. The first [working] model for travels in the Iranian New Year, proposes travels by the means of package tours. “Throughout package tours, travelers benefit from services provided by the tour and they will stay in authorized accommodation centers [and destinations] which are under the supervision of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts,” the official explained. For the second model, people do not go on tours, but when traveling to their destination city, they must stay in authorized accommodation centers, which are under the supervision of the ministry, to comply with all health protocols and maintain public health, Teymouri stated. Any other form of accommodation would be prohibited to curb the virus, he said. “To help prevent the spread of the coronavirus in Noruz 1400, the establishment of tourist camps, camping, tourists staying in places such as schools, shrines, husseiniyahs, etc. is prohibited, and this issue has been announced to the provincial governors.” The arteria of Noruz travels is expected to be announced in detail during the upcoming exhibition for tourism and handicrafts, which will be held in near future, according to the official. The tourism minister, Ali-Asghar Mounesan, publicized in November that mass, unplanned travels are not approved. “The outbreak of the coronavirus has caused damage to the tourism industry in Iran and [other parts of] the world in such a way that according to statistics, 50 million people are directly and indirectly exposed to unemployment due to the virus spread in the global scene…. yet, mass or unplanned and irresponsible travels are not approved to take place during the coronavirus era.” 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.” “We are well aware of what the National Headquarters for Coronavirus Control proclaims [the health protocols], hence as a proposal, we have formulated some smart, responsible travel packages by the implementation of which we could have secure travels,” the minister said. He has repeatedly announced that his ministry is in full coordination with the Ministry of Health for strictly implementing health protocols in travel destinations, hospitably centers, and museums, amongst others, underlining that “people’s health is our priority.” Iranians traditionally make hundreds of thousands of domestic trips during the New Year holidays, when most businesses and workplaces are closed, as are schools.

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

Virus causes $5.2 billion damage to Iran’s tourism, minister says

Iran’s tourism industry has suffered a loss of some 220 trillion rials (about $5.2 billion at the official exchange rate of 42,000 rials per dollar) since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Minister said on Tuesday. “Iran’s tourism has suffered some 220 trillion rials due to corona pandemic so far…. and we hope that with the production of domestic vaccines, tourism will flourish in 1400 [the new Iranian calendar year which begins on March 21],” Ali-Asghar Mounesan said. He made the remarks during the opening ceremony of Tehran’s international tourism and handicrafts fair, which is currently underway at Tehran Permanent International Fairgrounds. “We hope that the widespread vaccine would bring prosperity to all branches of tourism such as agritourism, ecotourism, and nature tourism,” the minister said. “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 announced last December. The government had previously allocated a total of 500 trillion rials (about $12 billion) to the corona-affected sectors, of which 200 trillion rials ($4.7 billion) will be given to the health ministry and the rest will be spent on other sectors, he explained. Last month, the minister announced that the national budget bill for the next calendar year (starting on March 20) has proposed 70 trillion rials (about $1.7 billion) to support tourism businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic. If the budget receives parliament’s approval, it will be injected into different sectors of the tourism industry, which has taken a major hit from the coronavirus outbreak over the previous months, he noted. Despite the toughest economic pressures and sanctions, the government has provided good support to all sectors of tourism, the minister said. However, there is hope that the beginning of mass vaccination against the coronavirus will provide better conditions for tourism and businesses related to this sector, he explained. Government’s care and support packages In late October, the deputy tourism minister, Vali Teymouri, announced that a new support package to pay loans to businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic has been approved. Depending on the type and activity of the businesses, they could benefit from at least 160 million rials ($3,800) to nine billion rials ($214,000) of bank loans with a 12-percent interest rate, he said. The loans will be allocated to tourist guides, travel agencies, tourism transport companies, tourism educational institutions, eco-lodges and traditional accommodations, hotels, apartment hotels, motels, and guesthouses as well as traditional accommodation centers, tourism complexes, and recreational centers, the official explained. Teymouri pointed to the 1.3 million tourism workers in the country, who are facing several issues due to the coronavirus crisis, and said “This number, in addition to their households, includes a significant population that makes a living through tourism, who are needed to be considered in ministry’s decisions.” Teymouri has said that the tourism ministry has approved a total budget of 4,920 billion rials (over $117 million) to support corona-affected tourism businesses, covering as much as 36,000 people working in the tourism sector.

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

Tehran tourism fair opens; activists hope for boom when corona vaccine is ever-present

Tehran’s international tourism and handicrafts fair opened to the public on Tuesday in defiance of a government campaign to improve the hugely-battered travel sector in the face of the novel coronavirus. Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan and his deputies for tourism, and handicrafts were amongst attendees to the opening ceremony of the fair, which is underway at Tehran Permanent International Fairgrounds. Activists, including tour operators, hoteliers, transport businesses, and tour guides, are hopeful that such days would be numbered at the COVID-19 vaccine is getting more widespread. Since it first surfaced late in 2019, the pandemic has created a greater demand for experiences away from crowds, which is opposite to many traveling pillars. Experts say that such preference for solo travel would probably continue till a coronavirus vaccine is ever-present. “Safe and Responsible Travels” has been picked as the motto of the four-day event that according to organizers could help boost synergy among the two sectors as people have a chance to visit them maybe in a day-long visit! The event is being held according to health protocols announced by the National Headquarters for Coronavirus Control, and following the necessary coordination with the relevant agencies in this field, according to Vali Teymouri, the deputy minister for tourism. Travel agencies, airlines, sea or rail companies, entrepreneurs, startups, banks, insurance brokers, agents or hospitals in charge of health, medical tourism, sports clubs, pilgrimage & eco-tourism companies, representatives of hotels, guesthouses, touristic villages, and free zones are amongst exhibitors in the tourism sector. Furthermore, tens of booths and stands in various exhibition halls have been dedicated to craftspeople, artisans, live performers, and tribespeople who are coming together from every corner of the ancient land to promote skills inherited from generation to generation. Though its main goal of the sales exhibit is to make money and sails of the handicrafts, souvenirs, foodstuff, and various other regional products, it can be a venue for dialogue between exhibitors and visitors and even visiting officials, according to organizers. The fair showcase arrays of personal ornamentation, woodwork, illuminated manuscript, miniature, textile printing, enamel, leatherwork, handwoven textile, calligraphy, traditional musical instrument, metalwork, and marquetry among tens of others while nomadic culinary arts, live workshops, and performances that would gather own fans every corner. Iran 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, it aims to increase the number of tourist arrivals from 4.8 million in 2014 to 20 million in 2025. So it will undeniably try its best to achieve a relatively ambitious goal but when that happens the travel industry is likely to look more altered.

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

AC Hotel Fort Lauderdale Sawgrass Mills/Sunrise Announces Two Key Appointments Ahead of March 2021 Opening

AC Hotel Fort Lauderdale Sawgrass Mills/Sunrise, the first hotel in Sunrise in 15 years and the first AC Hotel brand in Broward County, has appointed Michael Lauria as general manager and Christine Caraccia as director of sales and marketing. The pair will oversee the launch of the eight-story, 174-room hotel when it opens in March 2021. The hotel is located just steps from the iconic Sawgrass Mills Mall shopping center, one of the largest outlet and value retail shopping destinations in the US.It is our pleasure to have two prominent industry leaders opening the AC Hotel Fort Lauderdale Sawgrass Mills/Sunrise, where their hospitality expertise and deep knowledge of the South Florida market will position the hotel as best in class,” said Ken Polo, regional vice president of Concord Hospitality, the hotel’s management company. “Their hard work, dedication and leadership have prepared the hotel and staff for a successful opening. We know they will thrive in their respective roles and provide the unparalleled service both customers and employees expect and deserve.” Lauria brings more than 30 years of hospitality experience to AC Hotels. In his role, Lauria oversees all aspects of property management including financial performance, guest satisfaction and day-to-day operations. A loyal member of the Concord Hospitality family for five years, he most recently served as general manager of Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Beach Surfside and general manager at Hyatt Place Miami Airport – EAST. Prior to joining the Concord Hospitality team, Lauria served as hotel manager at Bonaventure Resort & Spa in Weston, Fla. In addition, he previously held multiple positions over a 22-year span with Hyatt Hotels in full-service hotels across North America to include Grand Hyatt New York, Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Va, Hyatt Regency Austin, Texas, Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport, Hyatt Regency Newport, R.I. He also spent three years outside of the US at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Spa. Lauria is a graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, N.J., where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management. It has been a privilege to be part of the Concord Hospitality team for the last five years and I look forward to continuing to uphold Concord’s core values and deliver memorable experiences for our guests each time they stay with us,” said Lauria. “Christine and I are looking forward to serving the community and bringing our shared vision of this hotel to life.” With more than 15 years of hospitality experience, Christine Caraccia is responsible for hotel sales revenue including guest rooms, meeting space and banquets; developing and implementing marketing programs; overseeing the sales team; and ensuring top-notch client service. A Los Angeles native, she moved to South Florida in 2015. Preceding her current role, Caraccia was the director of national accounts for Fontainebleau Miami Beach for nearly three years. Her past engagements include group account manager at W Fort Lauderdale, senior sales manager at Hyatt Regency Century Plaza and group sales manager at W South Beach. She also served as senior sales executive at Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa in California, where she started her career. A graduate of California State University Northridge, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management and a minor in Marketing and is fluent in Armenian.

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

Accor Partners With Twenty14 Holdings to Open the Pullman Downtown Dubai

Twenty14 Holdings, an Abu Dhabi-based hospitality company that owns assets throughout the globe has partnered with Accor, a world-leading augmented hospitality group, to open a new Pullman in one of the most sought-after locations in Dubai, Business Bay. “We are pleased to partner with Accor and be part of their strong footprint and network in the region,” said Adeeb Ahamed, Managing Director of Twenty14 Holdings. “Pullman is aligned with our expectations and vision as an asset owning company, and with Accor’s loyalty program and management expertise, we are confident that guests at our property will get to experience the best of global hospitality.” Located in Business Bay, the hotel offers stunning views of the Dubai Canal, the Dubai Skyline and the iconic Burj Khalifa. Business Bay is near Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC), as well as the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition centre. Talking about the partnership, Mark Willis, CEO of Accor Turkey, India, Middle East & Africa, said, “We are very proud to finally partner with Twenty14 Holdings. There is no doubt that this property is set to become a flagship for the Pullman in Dubai due to its ideal fit with the brand.” The hotel features 353 rooms and suites, as well as a ballroom, two meeting rooms, a private boardroom, a club lounge, a spa, fitness facilities with sauna and steam rooms, a squash court, a lop pool, a children’s pool, and outdoor Jacuzzi. In addition, Accor and Twenty14 Holdings are working closely to develop the dining offering at the hotel with six “in-trend” and well-designed dining experiences.

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

Private sector establishing tourist complexes in Ardebil

A total of six tourist complexes are under construction in northwestern Ardebil province, the provincial tourism chief has said. “With private sector investment, three complexes in Sarein and three complexes in Meshkinshahr are being built,” CHTN quoted Nader Fallahi as saying on Monday. A budget of 4.3 trillion rials ($102 million at the official exchange rate of 42,000 rials per dollar) has been allocated to the projects, some of which are complete by 70 percent, the official added. The projects are expected to generate over 340 job opportunities as well as attract more tourists and travelers to the region after the coronavirus crisis comes to an end, he explained. Earlier in January, the official announced that more than 150 tourism-related projects are underway across the province although the COVID-19 pandemic has brought travel and tourism to a near-standstill. He also noted that the projects would prepare the province’s tourism sector for the post-coronavirus era when the number of tourists and travelers is expected to rise magnificently. Last April tourism authorities of the province announced that they have developed extensive plans to draw more tourists during the winter season to the province and make it the winter tourism hub of the country. Back in November Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan said that investment in the tourism sector and boosting tourism infrastructure hasn’t stopped despite the outbreak of the coronavirus in the country. Over the past years, a large number of tourism projects have been commenced across the country, some of which have come on stream, he added. This volume of investment indicates that investors have high hopes for the future of this industry in the post-coronavirus era and for the next years to come, the tourism minister said. Sprawling on a high, windswept plateau, Ardebil is well-known for having lush natural beauties, hospitable people, and its silk and carpet trade tradition. It is also home to the UNESCO-registered Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble. The province is very cold in winter and mild in summer, attracting thousands every year. The capital city of Ardebil is usually recorded as one of the coldest cities in the country in winter.

Create: Feb 22, 2021 Edit: Feb 24, 2021 Regional News