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New Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Rosa Rohnert Park Opens in Sonoma County, California

The Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Rosa Rohnert Park, part of the Marriott International brand of hotels, opened in beautiful Sonoma County, California on March 25, 2021. The five-story hotel located at 405 Martin Avenue, Rohnert Park, CA features 100 guest rooms & suites designed to provide an inviting and effortless experience for guests. Geared for travelers who wish to stay in California wine country, the hotel features a range of value, tech-focused, and eco-conscious offerings and amenities. “Our team is excited to bring a new hotel to Sonoma County with great proximity to local businesses, wineries and the golden California Coast”, said Dev Dugal, Principal of Rohnert Park Lodging. “Our hotel is ideal for families, business and leisure travelers looking for short or extended stays that are near iconic and family friendly attractions including Sonoma’s finest wineries, Graton Casino, and Sonoma State University.” Owned and developed by Rohnert Park Lodging, Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Rosa Rohnert Park offers accommodations with well-appointed amenities including high-definition televisions equipped to stream from personal devices, plush bedding and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout. The hotel features complimentary breakfast, inviting communal spaces and a state-of-the-art fitness space featuring Technogym equipment. Guests can enjoy a heated outdoor pool, cozy fire pit and electric vehicle charging stations. Located just north of San Francisco, the hotel is easily accessible along the 101 freeway and is just thirty minutes from the Pacific Ocean. “We’re thrilled about our continued partnership with Marriott and their faith in us developing a modular hotel. Working with ATCO Modular was a great experience, allowing us to deliver a beautiful hotel while saving time and resources during our construction journey. We focused on warm, timeless design that is both inviting and forward-thinking, while still maintaining the iconic Fairfield brand heritage.” said Beau Athia, Principal of Rohnert Park Lodging.

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

Hotel Melby, Tapestry Collection by Hilton Opens in Melbourne, Florida

Hotel Melby, a 11-story, 180-room state of the art, full-service hotel just minutes from Downtown Melbourne, Orlando-Melbourne International Airport and Melbourne Beach is the latest addition Tapestry Collection, one of Hilton‘s 18 market-leading brands. Hotel Melby offers welcoming beauty with architectural details and comfortable spaces that will capture guests’ imagination. Much like the Melbourne community, Hotel Melby is eclectic, vibrant, engaging and historical. The hotel’s inviting atmosphere will offer guests an authentic experience, that is casually approachable, free spirited and regionally hand crafted. “Hotel Melby’s entrance into the market will offer a one-of-a-kind, unique experience for our guests. Guests will enjoy excellently appointed, modern guest rooms with city and river views, while having the benefit of all the amenities expected of an upscale hotel,” said Carlos Cerda, general manager, Hotel Melby. Located in the Downtown area, Hotel Melby is the only hotel in the city center that offers walkable access to local downtown restaurants, night life and shopping. Offering quick access to the beach, corporations, Orlando-Melbourne International Airport and the Florida Institute of Technology. Additional hotel features and amenities include: DININGHotel Melby offers The Landing Rooftop with 180-degree views of the city and waterways and specializes in American fare, serving craft cocktails along with entrees such as a Burrata & Tomato Salad, Truffle & Brie Grilled Cheese, The Melby Burger and Braised Short Ribs. In addition to the on-property offerings, guests can also enjoy a variety of options from the area’s local eateries. AMENITIESGuests seeking exercise or relaxation have a variety of options, including: 24-hour fitness center with Peloton® equipment and free weights. MEETINGS & EVENTSWith 2,525 square feet of meeting space, Hotel Melby is the perfect venue for weddings, business meetings and other gatherings. Offering incredible floor-to-ceiling views of the river and city, the stunning New Horizons Ballroom can accommodate up to 150 guests. The Landing Rooftop will also be available for groups to rent out the entire floor for private events. Guests visiting Hotel Melby will enjoy peace of mind from check-in to check-out with Hilton’s new program, Hilton CleanStay, to enjoy an even safer and cleaner stay. New procedures include contactless digital check-in and a Hilton CleanStay room seal to indicate that the room has not been entered since being thoroughly cleaned. Hotel Melby is also part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 distinct hotel brands. Members who book directly have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app. To celebrate the hotel’s opening, Hilton Honors members will earn an additional 1,000 Points per night – up to a maximum of 5,000 Hilton Honors Points – for bookings through April 15, 2021-September 30, 2021, when booking directly with Hilton. Hotel Melby is located at 801 E Strawbridge Ave Melbourne Florida just 2.5 miles from Orlando- Melbourne International Airport.

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

First Radisson Serviced Apartment Hotel Opens in Western Europe

Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce the opening of its first serviced apartment property and eighth operating hotel in the Dutch capital. The 227 all-suite aparthotel Radisson Hotel & Suites Amsterdam South offers the perfect base for families and long-stay visitors. Nestled amidst a maze of canals in a leafy neighborhood, guests will have a quintessential Amsterdam experience with easy access to the city’s central business district. The upscale Radisson Hotel & Suites Amsterdam South is an aparthotel featuring 227 suites within eight suite types, spanning from 21m2 to 106m2. All the suites have a fully-equipped kitchen, individual climate control, free high-speed Internet access and flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Whilst all suites include a walk-in rain shower, guests can also choose suites with designer bathtubs and even a private infrared sauna. A complimentary self-service laundry facility is available and, for guests with busy schedules, the hotel also features a 24/7 Grab & Go market, a fitness studio, underground parking, bike rental, and a restaurant, Keuken & Bar – created by Marije Richards, of RICHARDS Design. Yilmaz Yildirimlar, Area Senior Vice President, Central & Eastern Europe, Russia and Turkey at Radisson Hotel Group, says, “We are delighted to open another highly successful Radisson Hotel Group brand in the city of Amsterdam especially during this challenging time. Our upscale Scandinavian-inspired Radisson brand has seen great traction since the EMEA launch in 2018, and we are thankful to our partners Cycas Hospitality, who operate the property, for being part of this incredible journey. We look forward to welcoming our first guests together in this key European destination.” Radisson Hotel & Suites Amsterdam South also features three modern meeting rooms, all with natural daylight and equipped with the latest high-quality audio-visual equipment. With convenient transport links to the Zuidas central business district (3km), city center (6km) and Schiphol Airport (8km), the property is well placed to cater to the growing demand for extended-stay accommodation options in this part of the city. For those looking to combine the best of both worlds – both the Dutch capital and the countryside – Radisson Hotel & Suites Amsterdam South is only a short walk or cycle ride from Amstelpark (2km) and Amsterdam Forest (2.5km), one of the biggest urban parks in Europe and three times bigger than Central Park. The surrounding area is the perfect complement to the pet-friendly hotel, which makes it much easier and more comfortable for pet owners and all members of the family to travel. Under the commercial umbrella of Radisson Hotels, Cycas Hospitality operates the all-suite property under a leased agreement with ECHO partners. Wayne Androliakos, Chief Operating Officer of Cycas Hospitality, the hotel management company operating the new Radisson property, said, “We are delighted to have opened our first Radisson-branded hotel in Cycas’s hometown of Amsterdam, and are confident that our extended-stay expertise will make Radisson’s first all-suite property in Western Europe a popular option for those visiting the city. The events of the last year have really highlighted the benefits aparthotels can offer travelers. By combining classic hotel services with the flexibility of home in one great property, we’re well-placed to cater for the current demand from essential travellers and, looking ahead, for the growing demand from longer-staying guests.”

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

MCR Acquires SpringHill Suites by Marriott Charlotte-Southwest in North Carolina

Come along for the rides! MCR, the fourth-largest owner-operator in the United States, has acquired the new-build, 124-suite SpringHill Suites by Marriott Charlotte-Southwest in Charlotte, North Carolina. Just 10 minutes from Charlotte Douglas International Airport and 20 minutes from downtown Charlotte, the all-suite hotel off Interstate 77 is nestled in the popular Steele Creek suburb. Pile the entire crew (family dog, too!) in the car and hightail it to a spacious SpringHill Suites pad, complete with a mini-refrigerator, microwave, 55-inch HDTV and sofa bed. After a coffee-fueled grab and go breakfast and sweat session at our fitness center, hit the world-famous Carowinds amusement park, a 407-acre entertainment extravaganza reopening on Friday, May 22. Twist and turn on 14 pulse-pounding roller coasters — try Fury 325, which reaches 325 feet and revs up to 95 miles per hour, if you dare! Not a coaster boaster? Carowinds is also home to 60 rides of all sizes and the Carolina Harbor Waterpark which has water slides, wave pools, the Boogie Board Racer — the longest mat-racing slide in the Southeast — and a three-acre kids’ area. Don’t forget to sample the authentic Carolina cuisine at the Blue Ridge Country Kitchen. After the fun and funnel cakes, you’ll probably need a drink. The SpringHill Suites Charlotte-Southwest has a full bar in the lobby — and our patio has loungers for the gang to recap the day’s thrills around a fire pit. A dip in the outdoor pool may be in order before you conk out in our crisp sheets and wake refreshed to ride another day. Prefer to take it slow? Head over to the nearby driving range at Charlotte Topgolf, which has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays. If bargain-hunting is your game, the Charlotte Premium Outlets has 100 shops to browse. Lest you think it’s all play and no work at the SpringHill Suites Charlotte-Southwest, each suite has a well-lit desk with a comfortable chair and plenty of outlets. That’s welcome news for corporate travelers: our location in Whitehall Corporate Center is a short drive to companies such as Siemens, Microsoft, Konica Minolta, Spectrum and Stanley Black & Decker. Powering up at the SpringHill Suites Charlotte-Southwest is good for the planet: the 310 solar panels on its roof harness the sun’s energy to produce electricity, heat water and reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint. The environmentally-friendly hotel saves roughly $20,000 per year in electric costs. The SpringHill Suites by Marriott Charlotte-Southwest is located at 3950 Arco Corporate Drive and features: 124 pet-friendly, non-smoking suites with mini-refrigerators, coffeemakers and microwavesA free daily breakfastA 24-hour fitness center with cardiovascular equipment and free weightsAn outdoor poolFree fast Wi-FiA 24-hour business centerA 24-hour convenience storeOnsite laundryComplimentary parking430 square feet of event space accommodating up to 30 people

Create: Apr 3, 2021 Edit: Apr 3, 2021 International News

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

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

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

Chartwell Hospitality Opens Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta Marking First Full-Service Hotel in Market in Almost 20 Years

Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta, an eight-story, 249-room full-service hotel in the heart of the Windward Business District, minutes from Avalon Boulevard, Downtown Alpharetta and Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, is the latest addition to Hilton Hotels & Resorts, one of Hilton’s 18 market-leading brands. Chartwell Hospitality opened the full-service hotel in the Windward Business District, a future mixed-use development at the corner of Windward and Northpoint Parkways, offering both guests and locals a sleek and contemporary escape. “Located in the heart of the Alpharetta Windward Business District, the hotel’s location paired with its modern design make it a perfect addition to our portfolio. Over the years, Alpharetta has evolved into a thriving business center, and we have seen an increase in visitors looking for modern new hotel options,” said Rob Schaedle, president, Chartwell Hospitality. “We look forward to delivering an exceptional level of service for all guests who enter its doors.” Additional hotel features and amenities include: AccommodationsOffering convenient access to Downtown Alpharetta and a short drive to Atlanta’s top attractions, the eight-story hotel is home to bright and spacious rooms featuring a modern design with locally sourced artwork adorning guest room walls. Guests at the Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta can look forward to upgraded guest rooms and more. The hotel’s stunning glass lobby, fireside nooks, Executive Concierge level and rooftop terrace elevate our guests to a unique VIP experience. All rooms and suites feature a 49-inch flat screen HDTV, large marble bathrooms, a selection of premium bath products and access to the hotel’s seasonal pool, cabana bar and 24/7 fitness center. DiningHärth restaurant and its flatbread oven will become the anchor of the public area of the hotel, just as the heart of a home is centered on the kitchen. Härth’s menu celebrates American comfort foods while bringing a fresh, contemporary approach to dining. Härth lounge offers the perfect location to unwind and relax, featuring specialty cocktails and light bites. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, along with a private dining room for more intimate gatherings. AmenitiesGuests seeking exercise or relaxation have a variety of options, including: 24-hour fitness center with Precor® equipment and free weights; heated seasonal pool with sunning terraces, cabana bar; and easy access to Big Creek Greenway scenic running/biking paths just a few blocks away. Meetings & EventsWith 6,500 square feet of meeting space, Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta’s meeting and event attendees can choose from our ballroom and breakout rooms, or an executive boardroom, perfect for intimate executive meetings and larger social gatherings. Offering glistening chandeliers, locally sourced art and artistic lighting [JFB1] options in our event foyer to set the backdrop for your next event. Meetings and events are all backed by Hilton EventReady with CleanStay, providing curated solutions for groups, with creative food and beverage, thoughtful technology resources, redesigned spaces for physical distancing, and reimagined ways to meet and gather to create a safe and comfortable environment for event planners and their attendees. Guests visiting Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta will enjoy peace of mind from check-in to check-out with Hilton CleanStay to enjoy an even safer and cleaner stay. New procedures include contactless digital check-in, and a Hilton CleanStay room seal to indicate that the room has not been entered since being thoroughly cleaned. Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta is also part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 distinct hotel brands. Members who book directly have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app. Hilton Alpharetta Atlanta is located at 5775 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta, GA 30005 just 35 miles from Hartsfield Jackson Airport.

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

Iran, Slovakia seek to expand tourism ties

Iran and Slovakia on Thursday held an online meeting, in which high-level tourism officials, tour operators, and hoteliers discussed ways to boost tourism ties between the two countries in the post-coronavirus era. A key priority for Iran’s tourism sector is to restore tourism ties with previous markets and expand into new international markets such as Slovakia when the coronavirus crisis comes to an end, Mohammad Qasemi, the director for marketing and advertising at the tourism ministry said, IRNA reported. Regarding the unique characteristics and features of Iranian tourism as a different destination for the visitors from Slovakia, he emphasized the need for enhanced private sector relationships between the two countries to lead to the development of an efficient bilateral tourism exchange. Emphasizing the two countries’ capacity for caving, hydrotherapy, skiing, and national and natural parks, he also suggested that successful experiences be shared through training workshops and courses between the two sides. Elsewhere in his remarks, the Iranian official reminded the tremendous impact of the novel coronavirus pandemic on global tourism, adding that the Iranian government has provided support for travel businesses affected by the disease. The Slovak delegation also hailed the expansion of ties in the arenas of tourism and cultural heritage. Moreover, the Slovak Association of Tour Operators & Travel Agents (SACKA) expressed readiness to start bilateral tourism as soon as the virus is contained. The two centuries also agreed to draft a memorandum of understanding to lay the ground for further cooperation including fam tours for media personnel and tour operators. Last November, the World Tourism Organization announced that international tourist arrivals to Iran plunged 72% during the first eight months of 2020 when compared to 2019, highlighting the severe impact of COVID-19 as the main factor. Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan in October warned that Iran’s cultural heritage and tourism will be in a critical situation if the crises caused by the outbreak of the coronavirus continue. Last August, Mounesan said that Iran’s tourism has suffered a loss of 12 trillion rials (some $2.85 billion) since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. He also noted that the coronavirus pandemic should not bring traveling to a complete standstill. “Corona is a fact, but can the virus stop tourism? Certainly not. For us, the coronavirus is a new experience in dealing with crises that teaches tourism experts around the world how to deal with such a disaster, and thankfully governments are turning this into an opportunity for better planning.” Optimistic forecasts, however, expect Iran to achieve a tourism boom after coronavirus contained, believing its impact would be temporary and short-lived for a country that ranked the third fastest-growing tourism destination in 2019. The latest available data show eight million tourists visited the Islamic Republic during the first ten months of the past Iranian calendar year (started March 21, 2019). Iran welcomed some 7.8 million foreign nationals a year earlier, achieving a 52.5 percent increase year on year. 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: Mar 13, 2021 Edit: Mar 13, 2021 Regional News

The St. Regis Almasa Opens in Egypt Following Rebranding From Almasa Hotel

St. Regis Hotels and Resorts (www.StRegis.com), part of Marriott International (www.Marriott.com), today announced the opening of The St. Regis Almasa with the rebranding of the Almasa Hotel. Located in the New Administrative Capital of Egypt, The St. Regis Almasa is poised to become the best address in the heart of the up-and-coming city, which is slated to be the new face of Cairo and the administrative and financial hub of Egypt. “We are delighted to bring our iconic St. Regis brand to the New Administrative Capital together with the National Authority for Management & Investment,” said Guido De Wilde, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Marriott International. “This opening is a significant milestone in our journey and underscores the tremendous trust and confidence our owners have in us and in the power of our luxury brands in the region.” General Sherif Salah El-Din Chairman of The National Authority for Management & Investment said, “The National Authority for Management and Investment is excited to collaborate with Marriott International to bring the classic sophistication of the St. Regis brand to the New Administrative Capital of Egypt. The St. Regis Almasa will play a significant role in giving the tourism industry much-needed support and will become the new destination for luxury hospitality in Egypt, playing host to the country’s most coveted events, conferences and summits.” Showcasing timeless design and exquisite architecture, The St. Regis Almasa offers 270 rooms, 90 suites, 60 apartments and 14 villas, all featuring a private balcony or patio overlooking the pool and surrounding lush green landscape. The hotel’s classic aesthetic blends effortlessly with an elegant palate of rich fabrics to create a refined environment of luxury and comfort. Guests will enjoy the brand’s signature Butler Service, which offers around-the-clock anticipatory service and customizes each guest’s stay according to their tastes and preferences. The St. Regis Almasa boasts a 42,000-square-foot convention center that hosts official government conventions and events, as well as official foreign presidents’ and delegation visits. The Convention Center includes three ballrooms with separate entrances, dedicated bridal suites, nine meeting rooms and six VIP lounges with access to a private restaurant. It also features The Summit Hall, which is renowned for hosting heads of states, and Teatro Al Asema, a state-of-the-art spectator venue. The hotel is also ideally situated a short distance from Egypt’s ministerial district and the new Arts and Culture hub which is home to the Grand Opera House, Egypt’s Capitals Museum and the Capital Library. Dining venues at The St. Regis Almasa include La Sponda, offering true Italian charm and flavor, and Café Royal situated in the heart of the lobby serving the St. Regis brand’s signature Afternoon Tea ritual. The hotel also anticipates introducing new concepts and distinctive culinary experiences. The St. Regis Almasa’s leisure facilities cater to all ages, featuring indoor and outdoor swimming pools and an artificial beach with waves. Guests can escape to the Trio Club House, an exquisite retreat housing a luxurious spa. The spa has eight tranquil treatment rooms offering a range of holistic treatments, a Moroccan Hammam, sauna and steam rooms and a fitness center with a separate space for ladies and a kids club. True to the legacy of the iconic brand, The St. Regis Almasa is expected to encompass the hallmarks of the brand such as its rich traditions and rituals to bring to life a complete brand experience over the next few months.

Create: Mar 6, 2021 Edit: Mar 6, 2021 International News

Hotel Florence Completes Renovations and Joins Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Hotel Florence, a unique boutique hotel located in the heart of historic downtown Florence, South Carolina, is pleased to announce the completion of their interior renovations and conversion to Tapestry Collection by Hilton. Owned and operated by Raines since 2013, the property began the renovation process in October 2020. Guests of the hotel can now experience extensive room renovations, including major bathroom upgrades, new furniture, fixtures, and equipment, new carpet and paint, updated artwork, and more. The property’s existing restaurant, Victors, also received an upgrade, including new seating, a bar renovation, and a new color scheme. Hotel Florence remains steeped in Florence culture and continues to showcase the historic downtown area’s rich roots. “After seven wonderful years in the Florence community, we are excited to complete this next step in our development of Hotel Florence and our investment in the downtown community,” said Grey Raines, Managing Partner of Raines. “Our new partnership with Hilton will reinvigorate Florence’s hospitality offerings and enable us to continue operating as the city’s premier hotel. We are excited to welcome our community and our guests to experience the updates at Hotel Florence.” Hotel Florence headlines the company’s recent launch of Woven by Raines – a specialized division that weaves a distinct development and service approach into each of its boutique properties. Featuring customized strategies, tailored branding and marketing tactics, and top-tier food and beverage programming, Woven offers a full-service approach to operating boutique hotels. Leading this new division in the Raines family is Executive Vice President Gavin Philipp, a hospitality professional with extensive knowledge in the boutique hotel sector. The Foundry Hotel Asheville, a Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel, is also a Woven by Raines property. Located along I-95 and within a short drive of several bustling cities such as Charleston, Greenville, Charlotte, Columbia, and Savannah, Florence serves as the perfect weekend getaway for nearby residents or those traveling for business. Suited for all business needs, the hotel and Victors have over 2,900 square feet of meeting and event space that can host up to 250 people; audio and visual packages available; complimentary WiFi throughout the property; catering capabilities. The hotel also boasts an in-house spa for down time relaxation – The Spa at Hotel Florence. The full-service spa is open to guests and outside visitors and features state-of-the-art individual treatment rooms, a couple’s massage room, and a serene relaxation area, as well as a selection of treatments for both men and women. Guests of the hotel can receive spa treatments from the comfort of their own room upon request. Hotel Florence is led by Dylan Purvis, General Manager, and Taylor Johnson, Director of Sales – two South Carolina natives and leaders in the hospitality industry.

Create: Mar 6, 2021 Edit: Mar 6, 2021 International News

SALA Hospitality Group Unveils sala bang pa-in on an Island in the Chao Phraya River

SALA Hospitality Group, Thailand’s homegrown design-led hospitality company, has unveiled the latest addition to its curated collection of beachfront resorts and boutique hotels: sala bang pa-in, a chic and stylish new riverside retreat that allows guests to escape the city, unwind in nature and learn about Thai history. With a fleet of boats awaiting to transport guests on immersive excursions, including complimentary transfers to and from the Summer Palace, every traveller can uncover the rich heritage of a charming yet relatively undiscovered part of the Kingdom. Scheduled to open its doors on 1st May 2021, sala bang pa-in will become the group’s ninth property in Thailand and the fifth member of sala boutique, a portfolio of intimate hotels situated in picturesque locations, many of which are filled with historical significance. Nestled on an island in the Chao Phraya River between Ayutthaya and Bangkok, Thailand’s ancient and modern capitals, Bang Pa-in is an exceptional addition to this anthology. This also marks the latest collaboration between SALA Hospitality Group and Twitee Vajrabhaya Teparkum from the Department of Architecture Co., the acclaimed Bangkok-based design studio, following the successful openings of Six Senses Samui and SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort. In the era of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, it is said that King Ekathosarot (reign from 1605 to 1620) was shipwrecked on an island in the Chao Phraya, Thailand’s “River of Kings”, as he sailed to the royal palace. There he met a woman living on the island and fell in love. Their alleged son, King Prasat Thong (reign from 1629 or 1630 to 1656) decided to build a palace in Bang Pa-in, as a tribute to the home of his mother[1]. Today, this “Summer Palace” remains an enchanting attraction that echoes the elegance of a bygone era, and guests at sala bang pa-in will be able to discover its secrets with complimentary daily boat services. Celebrating this destination’s vivid backstory and natural beauty, sala bang pa-in is a contemporary boutique retreat that puts guests on the doorstep of the Summer Palace. The hotel houses just 24 deluxe rooms and pool villas, all of which reflect a modern minimalist design concept and cutting-edge technology, such as high-end sound systems with smartphone connectivity, LED TVs and Espresso machines in every villa. Each spa-inspired bathroom comprises a separate bathtub and rain shower, and all 10 villas open out onto expansive riverside terraces with daybeds and private pools. The top room category, the spectacular three-bedroom river view presidential pool villa, offers 484 square metres of indoor and alfresco living space, making it ideal for families and groups of friends. Endless days can be spent exploring this intriguing area aboard the hotel’s own handcrafted 40ft wooden motorboat built by a renowned local boat builder in Ayutthaya, which offers river cruises to the Summer Palace (included in the room rate), along with daily sightseeing tours and sunset cocktail cruises. Alternatively, a luxurious 26ft speedboat is available for half- and full-day private charters and intimate group events. Bang Pa-in is an enticing option for visitors who want to embrace the great outdoors, with plenty of scenic cycling routes to and from the hotel, including a 50km loop that encompasses Ayutthaya and the Summer Palace, and secure bike parking at the hotel. Guests can also jog along a path that winds around the property and along the riverbank, relax with in-room spa and massage services, or plunge into the inviting outdoor swimming pool, which stretches 30 metres along the waterfront. Delectable dining experiences can be enjoyed at sala bang pa-in eatery and bar, its riverside restaurant. The menu of Thai and international cuisine highlights ingredients grown in the hotel’s onsite garden, accompanied by global wines, craft beers and creative cocktails. Indoor and outdoor seating is available with panoramic vistas. Within a short driving distance of Bangkok, sala bang pa-in is also an outstanding destination for out-of-town events, weddings and company away days. The 2nd floor multi-purpose meeting room, with its balcony and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, can host inspiring gatherings of up to 20 delegates, the 240sqm river-facing lawn is ideal for weddings, and the entire property can be reserved for unforgettable social or corporate occasions. sala bang pa-in will be led by Mr. Volkert Geertsen, a highly respected international hotelier and Cluster General Manager for sala boutique. The Chao Phraya is a legendary river that weaves timeless tales of Thailand’s past as it winds through the landscape. Now for the first time, curious explorers can discover the fables and folklore of Bang Pa-in, the home of the Summer Palace, while staying in a boutique hotel that delivers world-class experiences for couples, families and groups alike. Just a short distance from Bangkok, yet surrounded by unspoiled scenery, this is a captivating destination for urbanites who want to escape the city and unwind in peace and tranquility. We look forward to welcoming guests to sala bang pa-in, demonstrating our trademark sense of style and showcasing the grace and grandeur of Old Siam,” Mr. Geertsen commented. sala bang pa-in joins sala rattanakosin Bangkok, sala lanna Chiang Mai, sala ayutthaya and sala khaoyai in the sala boutique portfolio. Like all its sister hotels, it infuses the genuine warmth of Thai hospitality with a focus on authentic art, design and culinary creativity. And of course, guests can rest assured that their health and hygiene is SALA Hospitality Group’s top priority. Every property adheres to the SALA Safe programme, which ensures the safety of customers whilst preserving the core guest experience. The full list of measures can be found on the SALA Hospitality Group website. sala bang pa-in is located just 60km north of downtown Bangkok, 28km from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ayutthaya Historical Park, 41km from Don Mueang International Airport and 74km from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, making it ideal for domestic and international visitors alike.

Create: Mar 6, 2021 Edit: Mar 6, 2021 International News

New light shed on Persepolis

An archaeological discovery lately been made in the vicinity of Persepolis has shed new light on the once ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid empire. Excavations and surveys on Tall-e-Ajori, which is situated in the surrounding areas of the UNESCO-registered Persepolis, are expected to help archaeologists uncover more about the history of the royal city. Regarding the significance of such excavations around Persepolis, the director of the World Heritage site on Wednesday noted: “[Some] half of the ancient world was led and managed from the Persepolis.” There is ample evidence for the claim, which could be found across the Marvdasht plain, which is also home to the UNESCO-registered Pasargadae, and several historical sites as well as villages and small towns scattered in an area of 85,000 hectares around Persepolis, Hamid Fadaei added. However, protecting and preserving such a vast area would be a challenging and time-consuming task, he explained. The official also noted that besides the archeological significance, the ecosystem and natural resources, and capacities of the area should be taken into consideration. Supervised by a joint mission of Iranian and Italian archaeologists and cultural heritage experts, the excavations on Tall-e-Ajori uncovered vestiges of a massive gateway measuring 30 by 40 meters with a height of approximately 12 meters. The archaeologists succeeded in proving that Cyrus had ordered the construction of the gateway near Persepolis in Tall-e-Ajori and that this magnificent gateway had been put into operation during the reign of his son Cambyses. “The building had a corridor in the center, which was in form of a rectangular room measuring eight by twelve meters, and inside this central room, there were four living chairs. And the central corridor opened on both sides to the Achaemenid campus,” according to Alireza Askari-Charoudi who is a senior Iranian archaeologist. The royal city of Persepolis ranks among the archaeological sites which have no equivalent, considering its unique architecture, urban planning, construction technology, and art. 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 city 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. Persepolis was the seat of the government of the Achaemenid Empire, though it was designed primarily to be a showplace and spectacular center for the receptions and festivals of the kings and their empire. 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: Mar 6, 2021 Edit: Mar 6, 2021 Regional News

Affordable prices expected to bring back boom into Iran tourism

The reasonable prices of Iran tours are expected to bring back the boom into the tourism sector of the country in post coronavirus era, the head of the Iranian Tour Operators Association has said. “Attractive tour plans are also being prepared for those who are eager to explore the historical attractions and natural wonders of the ancient country and want to experience a vacation here,” Ebrahim Pourfaraj said on Thursday. He also expressed hope that international tour operators and companies who have worked with their Iranian counterparts for years, would put Iran back on the world’s travel route again, considering the facilities they can get at cheaper prices than in other countries. Referring to health tourism as a popular branch in Iran, he noted that medical services in Iran are provided at a lower price than what may be offered at double the price in other countries. Back in January, the official announced that the tourist flow from across the world to Iran will return to normal in 2022. Although there are requests for traveling to Iran in the current year (2021), most travel agencies and tour operators believe that the flow will go back to normal in the next year, he explained. Beginning mass vaccination against the coronavirus will provide better and safe conditions for international travels in 2022, he added. Last November, the World Tourism Organization announced that international tourist arrivals to Iran plunged 72% during the first eight months of 2020 when compared to 2019, highlighting the severe impact of COVID-19 as the main factor. Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan in October warned that Iran’s cultural heritage and tourism will be in a critical situation if the crises caused by the outbreak of the coronavirus continue. Last August, Mounesan said that Iran’s tourism has suffered a loss of 12 trillion rials (some $2.85 billion) since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. He also noted that the coronavirus pandemic should not bring traveling to a complete standstill. “Corona is a fact, but can the virus stop tourism? Certainly not. For us, the coronavirus is a new experience in dealing with crises that teaches tourism experts around the world how to deal with such a disaster, and thankfully governments are turning this into an opportunity for better planning.” Optimistic forecasts, however, expect Iran to achieve a tourism boom after coronavirus contained, believing its impact would be temporary and short-lived for a country that ranked the third fastest-growing tourism destination in 2019. The latest available data show eight million tourists visited the Islamic Republic during the first ten months of the past Iranian calendar year (started March 21, 2019). Iran welcomed some 7.8 million foreign nationals a year earlier, achieving a 52.5 percent increase year on year. 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: Mar 6, 2021 Edit: Mar 6, 2021 Regional News