IHG partners for the development of more than 1,200 rooms in Thailand

IHG signed a strategic partnership with long-standing partner Asset World Corporate (AWC), an integrated lifestyle real-estate group, to manage a portfolio of properties across Thailand. The agreement will see the development of more than 1,200 rooms across Thailand, with the first signing announced today as the 306-room InterContinental Chiang Mai Mae Ping.  Serena Lim, Vice President, Development, IHG South East Asia and Korea commented, “With plans to double our portfolio in Thailand in the next 3-5 years, this signing today between IHG and AWC is another milestone in realising this ambition. Their reputation as a lifestyle and real-estate group, and long-standing relationship with IHG gives us great confidence of this growth momentum in Thailand.” Under the structure of the agreement, hotels in multiple popular destinations such as Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Hua Hin will be signed within three years. The first signing of the agreement announced today is the 306-room InterContinental Chiang Mai Mae Ping Hotel. Wallapa Traisorat, CEO and President of Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), said, “With our ambition to make Thailand a truly world-class tourism destination, we are excited to be extending our partnership with IHG, which is a testament to our unique business model of collaborating with an internationally renowned operator. With our shared vision of elevating the hospitality sector in Thailand and thus building a better future for the country’s economy, we are confident that the InterContinental Chiang Mai Mae Ping will be one of the many projects to set the benchmark in Thailand.” InterContinental Chiang Mai Mae Ping, a conversion of the prestigious Imperial Mae Ping Hotel, has long been in the forefront of Chiang Mai’s hospitality scene throughout its more than 30 years of operation. The hotel has held many high profile international events, as well as welcoming many prominent guests including royal family members, heads of state and celebrities from across the world. The hotel will portray the timeless and lavish beauty of the Lanna era with a modern luxury essence. As the world’s first international luxury travel hotel brand, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has been pioneering new international destinations for decades. The brand sets itself apart by delivering world-class standards of sophistication through understated service and exceptional amenities. It is famed for its devotion to the comfort and wellbeing of guests through personalised and attentive services. IHG’s loyalty programme IHG® Rewards Club of more than 100 million enrolled members also provides access to a global following of travellers. The hotel is expected to open in 2021 and will continue its extension with full operations in 2022, and aims to set new hospitality benchmark in Chiang Mai. Located in downtown Chiangmai near the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Tha-Pae Gate, Warorot Market and other tourist attractions, InterContinental Chiang Mai Mae Ping will cater for both leisure and MICE travellers with its six food and beverage outlets, and over 3,600 sqm of outdoor and indoor convention, event and meeting spaces. Guests can also enjoy a holistic retreat at the Lanna Spa which focuses on balancing the body and mind with spa services accompanied by traditional and fusion Lanna cuisine. The Teresa Teng Museum, which is currently located on the 15th floor suite of the hotel to commemorate the famous Taiwanese singer and cultural icon will be conserved, with plans to convert it to a specialty restaurant and roof top bar, where guests can experience its original set-up, decor and furniture when Teresa Teng last stayed here over two decades ago.   Thailand continues to be a strong growth market for IHG with 29 existing hotels across 6 brands in the portfolio, with another 30 hotels in the pipeline. 

Hilton Launches Lifestyle Brand Tempo by Hilton

MCLEAN, Va. – Hilton (NYSE: HLT) today launches Tempo by Hilton, an approachable lifestyle brand curated to serve a growing segment of “modern achievers” who seek a hotel experience that reflects their ambition. By combining thoughtful design and diverse lifestyle partnerships, Tempo by Hilton provides hotel owners and developers with a highly scalable brand that is both uplifting and within reach for future guests – all powered by an efficient service model. “For more than 100 years, Hilton has pioneered the hospitality industry as we know it,” said Christopher J. Nassetta, president & CEO, Hilton. “Tempo by Hilton is the latest example of our unique ability to anticipate what our guests are looking for and deliver unmatched value for customers and owners alike. We’re thrilled to welcome this new brand to our Hilton family and look forward to building on our legacy of innovation with Tempo by Hilton.” As part of its commitment to helping guests live better lives, Tempo by Hilton has established and built upon partnerships with leading experts across the well-being, food and beverage and other lifestyle spheres. The experts on board include Arianna Huffington’s renowned behavior change platform, Thrive Global and established culinary firm, Blau + Associates. These organizations bring a sense of discovery to the brand, while empowering guests to continue prioritizing well-being and personal growth even while traveling. “Tempo by Hilton introduces a new concept by combining all the benefits and efficiencies owners expect from a limited service model with an uplifting dose of inspiration,” said Phil Cordell, SVP and global head of new brand development, Hilton. “Utilizing a data-driven blueprint, we identified lifestyle offerings inside the guest rooms and throughout the property that push the entire sector to new heights. The end result is a compelling, yet approachable brand that enables owners to expand their portfolios in sought-after locations across the country as well as capture a new demographic of travelers.” Guided by its various lifestyle partnerships, as well as exhaustive market research surveying more than 10,000 consumers, each Tempo by Hilton property will feature elements designed to help ambitious guests continue their journey without disrupting their routine. These signature elements include: Reinvigorating and Relaxing Guest Rooms: More than rooms, Tempo by Hilton accommodations serve as a refuge where modern travelers are reinvigorated for the day ahead. In-room experiences include the one-of-a-kind Power Up and Power Down collections; curated assortments of morning and bedtime rituals created in partnership with Thrive Global; as well as other unexpected touches, such as a finely tuned sleep environment and a dedicated Get Ready Zone with space to get ready, organize for the day and focus on work. In addition, the oversized bath suite, which includes mirrors with built-in Bluetooth speakers, is spacious, bright and invigorating to help guests recharge and renew. Shared Spaces and Amenities Designed to Inspire: Envisioned as catalysts for genuine, memorable experiences, all Tempo by Hilton public areas and amenities bring a fresh approach to industry mainstays. These include art and design collections specifically chosen to encourage guests to look up from their daily grind and take a moment for themselves. Guests will also enjoy state-of-the-art fitness offerings; flexible meeting spaces, which can be easily reserved by guests on the go; as well as more informal areas perfect for collaborating with teammates or concentrating on individual tasks. Culinary Journeys: Developed alongside the award-winning Blau + Associates, Tempo by Hilton’s food and beverage offerings ensure guests have access to everything they need to sustain energy and boost focus. The in-lobby Fuel Bar, a complimentary coffee and tea bar, offers a hand-selected assortment of premium coffees and teas, along with various benefit-driven mix-ins. Additional hearty and healthy options, including artisanal smoothies and other breakfast favorites, are available at the casual cafe. At the bar, spirited and non-spirited craft cocktails and small plates round out the concept’s culinary program. Additionally, Blau + Associates will collaborate with Hilton to form a Chef Collective, an advisory board of young up-and-coming chefs who will help curate seasonal menus. Sustainability: Tempo by Hilton aligns with Hilton’s Travel with Purpose 2030 Goals to double its investment in social impact and cut its environmental footprint in half. To that end, this new brand is committed to implementing sustainable practices throughout the guest experience. Examples of specific initiatives include LightStay, food waste programs, responsible seafood sourcing, hydration stations throughout the property to replace single-use plastic bottles and full-size bath amenity dispensers to reduce disposable plastics. “Through our research, we found that while our current upscale offerings have been incredibly successful at earning loyalty among specific guest segments, there was a rising demographic of ambitious and highly discerning travelers that weren’t engaging with the category,” said Jon Witter, chief customer officer, Hilton. “With Tempo by Hilton, we are able to reach these influential consumers through a new, elevated yet approachable class of hotels designed to surpass expectations of both customers and owners in truly meaningful ways.” Conceived with extensive input from leading hotel owners and investors around the country, the new brand has seen strong momentum ahead of its unveiling. There are more than 30 individual commitments to date with properties confirmed in several prime markets across the US, including New York, Maui, Boston, Los Angeles, Lexington, Nashville, San Diego, Charlotte, Washington D.C., Houston, Atlanta, and more. An additional 30 deals are in various stages of development. All guests will enjoy the benefits of Hilton Honors, Hilton’s award-winning guest loyalty program for the company’s distinct portfolio of brands. Members who book directly with Hilton 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, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.

Paramount Lodging Advisors Successfully Transacts at the William P. Hobby International Airport With the Sale of the Drury Inn & Suites

Houston, TX –  Paramount Lodging Advisors (PLA) has successfully executed the transaction of the Drury Inn & Suites located at the William P. Hobby International Airport (Hobby) in Houston, TX.  Managing Director Kami Burnette, Sr. Managing Director Adam Montufar and Associate Lora Simpson represented Drury Development Corporation in the transaction. The 133-room upper-midscale hotel is ideally located off of Interstate 45 proximate to Hobby.  GreenTree Inns purchased the hotel as part of their strategy to acquire and rebrand well-located hotels in major metros. “The transaction was relatively seamless and we were pleased to execute another deal on behalf of Drury,” stated Kami Burnette.  “The buyer plans to rebrand to position the hotel to gain brand recognition in the growing Hobby market.”

Meliá Hotels opens first in Thailand

Meliá Hotels International and Asset World Corporation (AWC), Thailand's leading integrated lifestyle real estate group celebrated the grand opening of Meliá Koh Samui, a stunning nautical-themed luxury beachfront resort  in Koh Samui. The soul-stirring coastal haven, which combines a modern essence with the charming maritime heritage of Koh Samui, marks the first hotel under the Meliá Hotels & Resorts brand to open in Thailand. This opening of Meliá Koh Samui is the start of a strategic roll-out of the Meliá brand in Thailand and at least two more hotels will be opened in key destinations across Thailand, including INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit and a hotel in Chiang Mai in partnership with AWC. Nestled on Choeng Mon Beach, just 15 minutes from Samui International Airport, Meliá Koh Samui is a 159-room and 41-suite property that features a host of outstanding facilities, including two restaurants, an executive lounge, a stylish beach club and a swim-up bar, plus the YHI Spa, a fitness center and, for families, a kids' club, outdoor playground and a mini water park. Event planners can take advantage of extensive conference facilities of 7 multi-functional rooms including a room with unique beach front view, a ballroom that can accommodate up to 200 guests and an outdoor pool-side and beachfront function spaces which recently hosted a gala dinner for 500 guests. With its stunning seafront setting and exceptional amenities ideal for leisure and MICE travelers, Meliá Koh Samui will become one of the leading and most sought-after resorts on Koh Samui's north coast, a world-class tourism destination with outstanding facilities for all sectors of the market. Guests can also unwind in two outdoor swimming pools, including a large lagoon pool that loops like a river through the resort's lush tropical gardens. Many of the ground-floor Pool Access rooms and suites allow guests to slide directly into the embrace of cooling pool water from their private terrace. The Deluxe and Premium Rooms are ideal for couples, while the spacious Family Rooms feature a master bedroom for parents and in-room games for the kids. Guests seeking extra space and exclusive services can select the resort's suites that offer access to the executive lounge. The Level Boat Suites are truly unique, inspired by traditional Thai vessels and paying homage to Koh Samui's historic position as a safe haven for sailors and sea traders. This nautical design theme has been woven into the DNA of the resort, including the Level Lounge, which is shaped like a boat's hull. Embodying AWC's firm belief in “building a better future", and Meliá Hotels International's efforts to improve lives in disadvantaged communities across Thailand, Melia Koh Samui also houses the Gallery, a not-for-profit social enterprise of art and design gift shops under the aegis of the Asset World Foundation for Charity , which embraces socially responsible practices to contribute to society and communities. The shop will give customers the opportunity to be part of supporting the local communities with all profits contributing to further artistic endeavors, as well as preserving and promoting local culture and areas in need. Meliá Hotels International has been recently acknowledged as the Most Sustainable Hotel Company worldwide, by the SAM's Corporate Sustainability Assessment and sustainability is what the group wishes for from the beginning. “We are thrilled to partner with Meliá Hotels International and to introduce the Meliá Hotels & Resorts brand to Thailand for the first time. With its stunning seafront setting Meliá Koh Samui aims to offer a truly unique experience. As the hotel boasts the first lagoon pool and the largest swimming pool in Koh Samui, along with a creative combination of hydro therapy facilities like jacuzzi, water massage and rooms with a direct pool access, guests will find themselves relishing in the soothing fascination of water features. The hotel also offers a unique experience for guests who will be able to stay in suites fashioned after boats. These unique settings will enable them to enjoy a fun-filled and peaceful vacation in a serene atmosphere," said Khun Wallapa Traisorat, Meliá Koh Samui's owner, CEO and President of AWC. “This landmark project will mark the start of a strategic roll-out of the Meliá brand in Thailand, in line with AWC's growth-led strategy. Together, we aim to build a better future for Thailand's hospitality landscape and economy , and partnering with Meliá will allow us to set a new benchmark for Thai hospitality and drive global demand." “Today is a ground-breaking moment for Meliá Hotels International, as we celebrate our first hotel opening in Thailand – an extraordinary country and a strategic market for a leading global resort brand like ours. After more than 30 years of successful operations in Asia, we signed a strategic framework agreement with Asset World Corporation, we believe this first opening of Meliá Koh Samui is the beginning of our expansion in Thailand, bringing our dream of establishing and growing in this country alongside a major local partner to fruition; a partner that understands, and shares, our strong service and hospitality philosophy, a fundamental factor for ensuring the quality, reputation, and sustainability that we wish for Meliá Koh Samui," commented Mr. Gabriel Escarrer, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International at the opening ceremony. Beyond Thailand, Meliá Hotels International is expanding throughout Asia Pacific and has a total of 51 properties across the region, which are expected to open in the next few years.

IHG Owners Association announces 2020 Global Board of Directors

The IHG Owners Association, which represents IHG® franchise hotel owners worldwide, announced that Wayne West III has assumed chairmanship of its Global Board of Directors for 2020. West is President and Partner of Newport Hospitality Group, based in Williamsburg, Va., and brings an extensive background as a hotelier and operator. With more than 40 years in the industry, he has helped hotels maximize guest loyalty and team engagement while ensuring exceptional revenue performance and profitability. He succeeds 2019 chair Kurt Furlong, Chief Revenue Officer and Partner with Genuine Hospitality, LLC. Newport is a hotel management company that operates more than 50 select, full-service and independent hotels under various brands, primarily on the Eastern Seaboard. West joined the company in 2013 as Chief Operating Officer and quickly advanced to his current position as President. Previously, he was with Lane Hospitality (now Spire Hospitality) for 12 years, serving as Chief Operating Officer for the last three. West has also held executive positions with several other leading hospitality compa-nies. "I’ve been proud to serve on the IHG Owners Association Global Board for the past year as Treasurer, and I’ve enjoyed my leadership responsibilities as Vice Chair and then Chair of the Americas Regional Council (ARC),” says West. “I am very hon-ored to now assume the role of Chair of the Association. I look forward to representing the interests of our members around the world and connecting with IHG leadership on their behalf.” West has been an active member of the Association for many years having served as Chair of the Holiday Inn Committee and several other Association working groups, including the Strategic Planning and Standards Committees and the Holiday Inn Food & Beverage Council. Don Berg, CEO of the IHG Owners Association, notes, “Wayne’s deep, first-hand knowledge and experience in all areas of hotel operation will certainly benefit the work of the Association on many levels. His profound hotel management acumen will provide authentic and intelligent thought leadership to our members.” West attended East Carolina University and earned his Certified Hotel Administrator designation from the American Hotel & Lodging Association. He resides with his wife, Marianne, in a small lakeside town in North Carolina. The IHG Owners Association is also pleased to announce its 2020 Global Board of Directors: Chair-Elect & Americas Member at Large: Norman Leslie, President and Founder, National Hospitality Services Treasurer & Americas Member at Large: Navroz Saju, President and CEO, HDG Hotels Secretary & Americas Member at Large: Nellie Dhanji, Vice President of Operations and Legal Counsel, Stanley Park Investments, Ltd. Immediate Past Chair Advisor: Kurt Furlong, Chief Revenue Officer and Partner, Genuine Hospitality, LLC Past Chair Council Representative: Kerry Ranson, Chief Development Officer, HP Hotels CEO, IHG Owners Association: Don Berg Europe Regional Representative: Maurice Jansen, COO, EVENT Hotels Middle East/Africa/Asia Regional Representative: Paul Salter, Managing Director, Salter Brothers Asset Manage-ment and CEO and Managing Director, Salter Brothers Hotel Group Americas Regional Representative: Mark Zipperer, President and CEO, Pride Hospitality, LLC Americas Member at Large: Asad Malik, President and CEO, Amerilodge Group Americas Member at Large: Euan McGlashan, Co-Founder and CEO, Valor Hospitality Partners Americas Member at Large: Perry Molubhoy, Founder, President and CEO, Atlantic Hotels Americas Member at Large: Juan Carlos Santos, CEO, BPO Americas Member at Large: Felix Seiler, COO, Holloway Lodging Corporation Americas Member at Large: David Wespiser, Founding Partner, Hotel Development Services, LLC Europe Member at Large: John Stuart, COO, RBH Hospitality Management IHG Representative: Elie Maalouf, CEO, IHG Americas

Curio Collection by Hilton Debuts in Saint Kitts With KOI Resort Saint Kitts

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) announced the opening of KOI Resort Saint Kitts, Curio Collection by Hilton, representing the brand’s debut in St. Kitts and Nevis, which will also be KOI Hospitality’s first entry into the hotel space. The 102-room oceanfront haven is the latest addition to Curio Collection by Hilton, reinforcing the growth of its portfolio of one-of-a-kind hotels and resorts in premier destinations across the Caribbean and Latin America. Meaning ‘love’ in Japanese, the ‘KOI’ name was the inspiration behind the love and care that was put into the property, including the resort’s meticulously appointed guest rooms, delectable cuisine and poolside programming. Situated along Half Moon Bay and adjacent to the Royal St. Kitts Golf Club, KOI Resort Saint Kitts will launch a new lifestyle, vibe and frame of mind for those visiting the destination by offering Asian-inspired design, locally-inspired programming, globally celebrated cuisine by KOI Hospitality and immeasurable experiences for travelers. “Rapidly evolving into a high-end tourist destination in the region, St. Kitts has experienced a spike in tourism this year with arrivals booming 14.5 percent higher over the same period last year,” said Juan Corvinos, vice president, development, Caribbean and Latin America, Hilton. “Now growing at one of the fastest rates in the Caribbean, we recognize the demand for upscale accommodations, intuitive service and authentic experiences in this market. We look forward to providing travelers with a one-of-a-kind experience that can’t be found elsewhere on the island, as we continue to expand Curio Collection by Hilton’s presence globally reaching more than 80 properties.” Set on prime beachfront property, KOI Resort Saint Kitts is nestled on the quiet and secluded island of Saint Kitts with 102 guestrooms, a full-service pool terrace overlooking the ocean, a well-equipped gym and bespoke spa treatments, and a variety of elevated dining options, including the famed KOI Restaurant. The hotel is located within the “Cradle of the Caribbean” where the Atlantic Ocean meets Caribbean Sea. “KOI is one of the world’s largest hospitality brands and most iconic, offering memorable experiences in LA, Las Vegas, New York, Bangkok and Abu Dhabi,” said Nick Haque, CEO of KOI Hospitality Group. “Today is a dream come true for our evolving brand as we open the first KOI Resort on the beautiful island of Saint Kitts. Our new oasis will retain the same vision of our restaurants with design that appeals to all the senses.” Every detail of the property was curated by the KOI Hospitality executive team, creating guest experiences at the highest quality standard, providing a sanctuary for locals and visitors alike. Highlights include: Thoughtful Design Upon arrival, the sensory experience begins as guests are greeted by the sound of water and an unparalleled view of the lush island landscape and ocean. With a striking yet minimalistic design, the lobby interiors were inspired by the majestic and zen vibe reminiscent of Southeast Asia. The eye-catching and bold façade is an artistic mélange of soothing white and beige which gives way to the modern and sleek lobby adorned with handcrafted details, rich textures and unique pieces of art inspired by the local culture. Each guestroom includes plush furnishings with neutral tones and a minimalistic approach to room decor. Guestrooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows leading out to a tranquil terrace with panoramic views of the ocean, golf course or nearby mountain range. Each room boasts a variety of signature design elements and luxurious amenities include soothing rain showers, relaxing bathtubs, lavishly appointed beds and other modern comforts. Experiential Amenities With a dreamscape design embracing the natural beauty of the island throughout every facet of the resort, guests can unwind at the resort’s pool situated mere steps from the ocean on plush lounge beds within the resorts’ expansive pool terrace, which boasts views of the crystal blue waters that blend seamlessly into a vibrant blue sky. Notable amenities include the Kaya Spa, with a wide variety of body treatments, massages and facials in a tranquil setting. Other activities include an on-site fitness facility at the well-appointed Kaya Wellness. Globally Celebrated Dining Options Recognized internationally as a culinary hotspot for celebrities and globetrotters, the KOI brand is known for elevating food and hospitality to an art form. At KOI Resort, guests are welcomed by three culinary concepts, offering a genuine sense of style, haute cuisine and service. Culinary outlets include: KOI Restaurant – The highly acclaimed KOI Restaurant brand brings its signature restaurant to St. Kitts featuring sultry Asian-influenced design and delectable Japanese-inspired cuisine. KOI Saint Kitts is a sophisticated blend of modern elegance and Asian tradition. The candle lit dining room offers a zen design of earth-toned colors and sleek lines. Notable menu items include the KOI crispy rice and the Miso Bronzed Cod, as well as a variety of signature rolls including a baked crab roll and sunfire roll. Jaya Kitchen & Cocktails – As the resort’s poolside bar and restaurant, Jaya offers beach-inspired entrees and snacks such as salads, grilled sandwiches, brick-oven pizzas and fresh seafood and sushi. Guests are also welcome to enjoy craft cocktails, fine wines and beers from a curated selection of both local and imported brands. Jaya Ultra Lounge – For those looking for a sexy night of cocktails and vibrant scenery, Jaya Ultra Lounge serves a menu of Caribbean-inspired libations and customized craft cocktails. Guests can sample a flight of locally-sourced Caribbean rum while grooving to a modern soundtrack while watching the sun goes down. Meeting, Events and Weddings Ideal for intimate celebrations and functions, KOI Resort Saint Kitts offers an exquisite backdrop for a barefoot soiree followed by an elegant poolside reception or formal seated dinner overlooking the ocean. Those looking to host small corporate meetings, executive retreats and incentive groups can also take advantage of the unique venues and experiences available at a boutique-style hotel. Beyond redefining the resort experience for leisure guests, the property applies the same high-touch experience for the meetings and events market, with more than 6,000 square feet of total function space and state-of-the-art meeting facilities for up to 300 guests. Experiences and Cultural Immersion In addition to on property activities including water sports and state-of-the-art health/wellness offerings, guests have the option to explore the destination in style by renting a catamaran to sail to Nevis, snorkeling at Dieppe Bay Beach and ziplining the island’s lush forests. The resort is just minutes away from the St. Kitts & Nevis International Airport, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Caribelle Batik and Mount Liamuiga. “With air arrivals increasing 15 percent1 in the first two months of 2019, St. Kitts & Nevis is a focal point in the expansion of Curio Collection to destinations where tourism continues to flourish,” said Jenna Hackett, global head, Curio Collection by Hilton. “With the opening of KOI Resort Saint Kitts, we look forward to introducing travelers to the unexpected and authentic Curio Collection experience that embodies the island’s local culture.” Hilton currently has a portfolio of more than 150 open hotels and resorts to welcome travelers in the Caribbean and Latin America. In its 100th year, the company continues to pursue additional growth opportunities in the region and currently has a robust pipeline of approximately 95 hotels throughout the region, including nearly 20 throughout the Caribbean.

Google wants to be your holiday tour guide

Getting dropped into a new city is disorienting, and all the more so when you need to ask for help but don’t know how to pronounce the name of the place you’re trying to get to. Google Maps now has a fix for this. When you’ve got a place name up in Maps, just press the new little speaker button next to it, and it will speak out a place's name and address in the local lingo. And if you want to continue the conversation, Google Maps will quickly link you to the Google Translate app. New cities are full of new buildings, new foods and even new foliage. But you don’t want to just see these things; you want to learn more about them. That’s where Google Lens comes in as a know-it-all tour guide and interpreter. It can translate a menu, tell you about the landmark you're standing in front of or identify a tree you’ve never seen before. So whenever you think, “I wonder what that building is for,” you can just use your camera to get an answer in real time.

Today’s Metasearch: Why It Should Be in Every Hotel’s Marketing Mix

Hoteliers are always looking for ways to improve their digital strategies and turn every dollar into an even greater revenue-driving initiative. Every hotelier’s marketing mix should include metasearch — especially considering all of the new and exciting updates coming to existing metasearch platforms and search engines. Google and TripAdvisor are rolling out new optimization and targeting options that will allow advertisers to reach relevant audiences and maximize spend. Also, Bing is introducing Bing Hotel Ads, and NextGuest is one of the first agencies to offer connectivity and presence on this important search engine. Download the whitepaper to uncover metasearch fundamentals and learn about all of the new updates of today’s metasearch.NextGuest Digital uses the latest in digital marketing technology to assist hotel brands in crafting their digital presence. Through the agency’s smartCMS®, Content Personalization Engine, Smart Data Marketing, and other innovative initiatives, hoteliers see a drastic boost in direct bookings, as well as lower distribution costs and an increase the lifetime value of guests. NextGuest Digital is part of NextGuest, an all-encompassing partner that helps hoteliers acquire, engage, and retain their next guest. Based in New York City, the company is comprised of NextGuest Digital, CRM, Labs, and Consulting.

Arthur De Haast Named to InterContinental Hotels Group Board

InterContinental Hotels Group [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] today announces that Arthur de Haast is to be appointed as an independent Non-Executive Director of IHG. He will join the IHG Board with effect from 1 January 2020. Arthur de Haast is a Senior Director of JLL, the NYSE-listed professional services firm specialising in real estate and investment management. He will step down from JLL's Global Capital Markets Board on 31 December 2019, assuming an advisory role as Chairman of JLL's Capital Markets Advisory Council, in early 2020. Arthur was previously Chairman and Global CEO of JLL's Hotels and Hospitality Group, with responsibility for 300 professionals who provided advisory and transactional services to hotel owners and operators across 20 countries. In addition, Arthur is a member of JLL's Global Sustainability Board, member of the Advisory Board of the Scottish Business School, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow and past Chairman of the Institute of Hospitality. Patrick Cescau, Non-Executive Chair, IHG, commented: "Arthur brings more than 30 years of relevant capital markets, hotels and hospitality experience, along with significant Board-level knowledge around sustainability, all of which are important areas of focus for IHG. He also has a truly global perspective and significant insight into the Asian market which is a key focus for IHG. I look forward to welcoming Arthur to the IHG Board." Arthur will serve on the Remuneration and Corporate Responsibility Committees of the IHG Board. Pursuant to LR 9.6.13R, Arthur is an independent non-executive director of Chalet Hotels Limited, a public company, quoted on the Bombay Stock Exchange, (BSE). 

HREC Arranges Sale of Four Points by Sheraton in Newark

HREC Investment Advisors has arranged the sale of the 120-room Four Points by Sheraton Newark Christiana Wilmington located in Newark, Delaware. The firm exclusively represented the seller during the transaction. The marketing, negotiations, and final sale were led by Ketan Patel, managing director in HREC’s Washington D.C. office, and Andre Collins, an affiliate broker in Delaware. Located in Delaware’s most highly populated county, Newcastle County, the hotel is near companies headquartered in Newark, including W.L. Gore and Associates and JPMorgan. Other major demand generators in the immediate area include the University of Delaware, Denver Technology Park, White Clay Creek Park, Christiana Mall, Glasgow Regional Park, and the Newark Reservoir.

Marriott opens 3 hotels in the South

Next Week, the South will see the debut of its third Marriott-branded hotel since mid-June. Two weeks ago, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Memphis Collierville opened in Tennessee; today, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santee debuted in South Carolina; and, on July 9, the Residence Inn by Marriott Decatur will begin welcoming guests in Alabama. Southern Hospitality, LLC opened the 110-room Fairfield Inn & Suites Memphis Collierville on June 18. It includes a fitness center, outdoor swimming pool and 325 square feet of meeting space. The hotel is located within 30 minutes of the Memphis International Airport, Graceland and downtown. Memphis-based Hospitality Management Advisors operates the hotel. Santee Management owns and manages the 91-room Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santee. Hotel amenities include a fitness center, outdoor swimming pool and 1,100 square feet of flexible meeting space. It is located near Lake Marion, Santee Cooper Golf Resort and numerous independent restaurants.

Introducing the Tripadvisor hotel application