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Radisson to takeover Abu Dhabi and Al Ain hotels after 45-year Hilton partnership

Hotel News - The handover will go into effect January 2019 Properties will help meet the increased demand in the emirate Hilton will no longer manage the Hilton Abu Dhabi and Hilton Al Ain properties, effective January 1, 2019. Hilton has managed these properties on behalf of the owning company for 45 years. The hotels will be taken over by Radisson Hotel Group in partnership with Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH) and the handover will go into effect January 2019. Both Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Abu Dhabi Corniche and the Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort, Al Ain are expected to open in 2019 and will play a role the group’s growth plan within the Middle East. The two properties will undergo extensive upgrades as “part of a full conversion plan”. Hilton said in a statement to Hotelier Middle East: “Hilton Abu Dhabi and Hilton Al Ain will cease to operate under the Hilton brand from January 1, 2019 as the management contract will come to an end and is not being renewed.” “We believe we have created wonderful memories for our millions of guests, as well as our loyal team members throughout those years. While we will no longer be managing these hotels, we are glad to welcome guests to our other hotels open in the UAE currently,” the Hilton statement said. Commenting on the signings, Radisson Hotel Group executive vice president and chief development officer Elie Younes said: “We’re delighted to grow our presence in the UAE with two marquee hotel signings in the capital. We also welcome this strategic relationship with Abu Dhabi National Hotels (ADNH). The UAE remains one of our key focus markets in the Middle East, and these hotels give us the chance to cement our position in the country with Radisson Blu, which remains the largest upper upscale brand in Europe and a leading brand in its segment in MEA.”

Create: Dec 22, 2018 Edit: Dec 22, 2018 International News

Sweden’s incredible Icehotel opens for the winter season

Hotel News - Sweden’s iconic Icehotel is opening for it’s 29th annual winter season. Featuring 15 uniquely designed suites, the hotel is the perfect festive getaway destination for you to live out your Ice Queen fantasies. This year’s structure has been made from 30,000 cubic meters of ice and snow. If you don’t mind getting a little chilly, it could be the ideal winter break to get you in the festive spirit. Each suite features stunning ice sculptures – including one that boasts the front of a VW camper van, and another that resembles a giant oak tree. Each room has been designed by renowned artists. After 150 design submissions, a team of 34 designers were chosen to construct the final project. The chosen artists included father-daughter duo Jonathan Paul and Marnie Green, who designed the ‘Living Ocean Suite’ room which aims to highlight the negative effects of climate change and overfishing. The ‘Haven’ room, created by Jonan Johansson, Jordi Claramunt and Lukas Petko from Sweden, Spain and Slovenia, depicts a magical portal of ice guarded by a fox and a phoenix. The incredible ‘Flock’ room features intricate carvings of a flock of tiny birds behind the bed – it doesn’t get much more soothing than that. If you get tired of staring in awe at the stunning art work, there are plenty of other things to keep you entertained at the Icehotel. Guests can enjoy Arctic yoga, winter running, Nordic skiing, Aufguss saunas and workshops on exercising in an Arctic climate. Or you can spend your time swanning about in fur, wearing blue lipstick and clutching a frosty cocktail – because that probably wouldn’t get old.

Create: Dec 22, 2018 Edit: Dec 22, 2018 International News

Buying gold in a vending machine in ABU Dhabi at Emirates palace!

Create: Dec 19, 2018 Edit: Dec 19, 2018 TV

Wanda Hotels Launches New Brand - Wanda Moments

Hotel News - On 30 November, 2018, Wanda Hotels & Resorts held a launch ceremony and gala dinner to unveil Wanda Moments, a premium mid-scale hotel brand, and announced the newly upgraded guest loyalty program – Wanda Club at the conference center on the Star Island of Qingdao Movie Metropolis. The conference brought together representatives of Wanda Club members, guests of Wanda Moments and media guests to witness the launch of Wanda Moments and the new development strategy of Wanda Hotels & Resorts. At the conference, Dr. Ning Qifeng, Executive President of Wanda Cultural Tourism Creativity Co., Ltd. and President of Wanda Hotels & Resorts, introduced the group's latest development strategy during its transformation to asset-light development and Wanda Moments, the new premium mid-end hotel brand. He announced that Wanda Moments plans to develop 700 hotels around China in the next 5 years, and shared the comprehensive upgrade of Wanda Club program with the guests. Dr. Ning signed contracts with the first 6 Wanda Moments hotels' owners, which marks an official beginning of the development of the new brand, Wanda Moments. Mr. Chen Mengchao, Vice President of Wanda Hotels & Resorts, introduced Wanda's resource strength in developing hotel industry. He also described the brand positioning, product characteristics, development plan and cooperation models of Wanda Moments. As the fifth hotel brand of Wanda Hotels & Resorts after Wanda Reign, Wanda Vista, Wanda Realm and Wanda Jin, Wanda Moments is a premium mid-scale hotel brand that is committed to providing high-quality selected service to business travelers with unique taste, enjoy life attitude and pursuing different experiences. The new brand continues the diversity and inclusivity of Wanda hotel brands, and the artistic design, attentive services as well as interactive staying experience. With the brand concept of "Better for tomorrow" and the 4S core values (Sweet+Social+Style+Smart), Wanda Moments aims to create a new lifestyle that integrates art, culture, intelligence and fashion. Mr. Liu Yingwu, Vice President of Wanda Hotels & Resorts and President of Wanda Hotel Design Institute, introduced Wanda's integrated services from hotel design to construction and to project management. "The asset-light transformation we are pursuing is not just providing hotel management and design services, but a integrated project management services. It is an innovative service model and a mature and completed management system that based on the investment, construction and operation experience of more than 100 hotels. This enables us to assist and serve our owners with extensive ownership experience and systems." Wanda Hotels & Resorts attributes the brand development to the support of the brand's loyal customers, and pays close attention on rewarding program. During the event, Ms. Adeline Yong, Deputy General Manager of Sales & Marketing Department of Wanda Hotels & Resorts, officially announced the launch of upgraded Wanda Club program which was comprehensively enhanced in the points accumulation mechanism, membership system and points redemption system.

Create: Dec 18, 2018 Edit: Dec 19, 2018 International News

Yotel announces second hotel in New York

YOTEL announced it will open in late 2020 its second city hotel in Long Island City, New York. Inspired by the sleek design and comfort of First-Class airline travel, YOTEL first launched its city hotel concept in Midtown Manhattan, just minutes away from Times Square. YOTEL Long Island City marks the group’s eighth hotel under development or operation in the US with city hotels in Boston, San Francisco and Miami alongside three YOTELPAD properties in Miami, Park City and Mammoth. Renowned as a multi-modal transport hub, Long Island City caters to leisure and business travelers alike due to its incredibly convenient location. From the new property, guests will be able to easily access Manhattan in under 20 minutes and New York’s main airports, LaGuardia and JFK, within 45 minutes. The 178-cabin hotel will be a new build property where guests can seamlessly switch from work to play – guests have access to co-working and meeting spaces, multi-functional public areas and an ‘always-open’ fully equipped gym. The indoor and outdoor rooftop terrace and bar will be the perfect space for guests to socialise and unwind, taking in the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Each cabin will be equipped with YOTEL’s signature features, including the space saving adjustable SmartBed™, luxury amenities from Urban Skincare, multiple power and USB points, free super-fast WiFi and SMART TVs for guests to stream their own content when away from home. Long Island City has seen significant transformation over the past few years and boasts a wealth of cultural, educational and business offerings. It’s particularly appealing to young professionals and is quickly becoming a technology hub, which will only increase following Amazon’s announcement to open headquarters in Long Island City. Institutions including the MoMA PS1, several film studios, and educational establishments such as the Cornell Tech Campus and prominent businesses such as Citibank, Uber and Met Life are all within walking distance of the new hotel.

Create: Dec 18, 2018 Edit: Dec 19, 2018 International News

Wyndham to open three hotels in Deira, Dubai

Hotel News - Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is set to increase its footprint in Dubai with three new managed hotels as part of the Deira Waterfront Development by Ithra Dubai, a wholly owned subsidiary of Investment Corporation of Dubai. The hotels will operate under the Wyndham, Days Inn by Wyndham, and Super 8 by Wyndham brands. Also known as the Deira Enrichment Project, Ithra Dubai’s development is a mixed-use area situated along the Dubai creek in the southern part of Deira. Communal facilities, public amenities and open spaces will create a dynamic urban community along the shores of the Dubai Creek and will deliver key commercial growth opportunities for the city. The addition of three new hotels to the first phase of the development will also draw domestic and international business and leisure visitors looking for accommodation suited to a range of budgets. “We are very excited to welcome Wyndham Hotels & Resorts as a partner of our flagship development in Deira,” said Issam Galadari, director of Ithra Dubai. “Ithra Dubai’s development in Deira will enhance this busy and bustling part of Dubai, and will add to its rich tapestry woven by communities past and present. “The collaboration with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts will bring a new dimension to the area’s hospitality services, and will elevate and facilitate new pathways for trade and business in the heart of Dubai’s commercial district.” The 282 rooms and suites at Wyndham Deira Waterfront will appeal to upscale travellers looking for tailored services and amenities to match, with its extensive meeting, fitness and leisure facilities, including a rooftop pool with views over the Gulf. Days Hotel Deira Waterfront will give midscale travellers a fresh burst of energy with its 131 quality rooms and suites, as well as an all-day dining restaurant and meeting facilities. Lastly, travellers on a budget will find 90 reasonably priced rooms at Super 8 Deira Waterfront, alongside a restaurant and café. “The addition of three of our most iconic global brands to this important area demonstrates Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to Dubai and the Middle East region as a whole,” said Ignace Bauwens, regional vice president for Middle East, Eurasia and Africa, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Together with Ithra Dubai, we know we can preserve the heritage of the area whilst still meeting the needs of the modern traveller and contributing to growing the district’s commercial opportunity. “Offering three very distinct hotel brands ranging from upscale to economy will also ensure the area holds great appeal for visitors to Dubai from many different source markets.”

Create: Dec 18, 2018 Edit: Dec 18, 2018 International News

Aman Resorts International

Meticulously designed to frame their natural settings, Aman destinations are renowned for space and privacy. Each welcomes guests as if to the home of a close friend, instilling a sense of peace and belonging amid some of the most diverse natural and historical landscapes. It is an approach that has changed little since 1988 when the first retreat was built on Phuket’s west coast. It was named Amanpuri, meaning ‘place of peace’, and Aman was born. Today, embracing 33 resorts, hotels, and private residences in 21 countries, Aman continues to seek out transformative experiences and awe-inspiring locations around the world. Ranked number 1 in the Top Luxury Hotel Brands 2018.

Create: Dec 17, 2018 Edit: Dec 18, 2018 International News

Grace St. Moritz Switzerland

Grace Hotels acquired La Margna, a landmark St. Moritz property, built in 1906. The renovation and extension of an annex building will transform the property into the Grace St. Moritz and St. Moritz Residences. When it opens, the hotel will have 56 guest rooms and suites, plus 17 several serviced apartments with views of the lake. It will also have three restaurants. The spa will be redesigned and a new gym and swimming pool will be added. Ski facilities will also be upgraded. The hotel has been owned by the Schweizer-Pitsch family for 50 years, who are reportedly retiring from the hotel business. Construction is slated to continue on this property throughout 2019 and much of 2020 as well, with a targeted opening date of later that year.

Create: Dec 17, 2018 Edit: Dec 17, 2018 International News

10 Finalists Announced in 1st UNWTO Tourism Startup Competition in Collaboration with Globalia

Hotel News - The 10 finalists will present their projects in January 2019 within the framework of Fitur in Madrid. The finalists were selected among 3000 projects from 132 countries: Awake (Colombia), By Hours (Spain), e-bot (Germany), The FreeBird Club (Ireland), Howazit (Israel), Kompas (UK), Pruvo (Israel), Refundit (Israel), Seevoov (Israel), Stay 22 (Canada). The collaboration between UNWTO and Globalia continues with regional competitions during 2019. The 1st UNWTO Tourism Startup Competition is a pioneering initiative that has identified emerging companies at the forefront of the transformation of the tourism sector and the promotion of innovation ecosystems through tourism. It is organized by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in partnership with Globalia, the leading tourism group in Spain and Latin America. The 10 finalists will present their projects within the framework of the Fitur International Tourism Fair (23-27 January 2019, Madrid, Spain) with the presence of global tourism leaders from the public and private sectors, as well as potential investors. The competition sought innovative startups capable of transforming the way people travel and experience tourism, while adhering closely to the principles of sustainability (economic, social, and environmental). “For the first time, we have positioned tourism in the global innovation agenda, a well-deserved place that reflects the weight and socio-economic impact of tourism,” said UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. “The key is to connect the public and private sectors collaboratively, thus creating opportunities to share ideas and projects,” he added. Each project’s uniqueness, viability, potential impact, business model and scalability, along with the profile of the team, were the criteria for selecting the 10 finalists. “We have jointly created this pioneering public-private collaborative model in tourism as a global tourism group and we are delighted to spearhead this action alongside the World Tourism Organization, working together to lead the transformation of the tourism sector and fostering the global innovation ecosystem and its entrepreneurs,” said Globalia CEO Javier Hidalgo.

Create: Dec 17, 2018 Edit: Dec 18, 2018 International News

Establishment of Hotel School in Ardebil province with the participation of international organizations

The head of the Azad University of Ardebil, referring to the step-by-step plans of establishment of a hotel school, said: "With the aim of developing the tourism industry and supporting the hospitality sector, the initiated the launch of a hotel school here." "We hope that with the coordination of the Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism organization, we will be able to begin modern training in hospitality industry" he said. The head of the Islamic Azad University of Ardabil Branch continued to consult with several international institutes to participate in the definition of training courses of this hotel school and said: “Training courses will be held with the participation of these institutions and will be welcomed by hospitality managers, directors and hotel owners, we hope. He emphasized that the Azad University hope that with the investments made up to now, the development of hospitality and effective training in this area will be possible and available.

Create: Dec 17, 2018 Edit: Dec 17, 2018 Regional News

Hotel Northland to take guests in 2019

Hotel News -- Restoring Green Bay's Hotel Northland is going to take a bit more time than expected, the hotel announced Friday. The project to restore the 90-year-old building as a hotel began in 2016. Searching for specific parts has drawn out the process, construction officials say. “Many of the hotel’s original architectural elements simply can’t be duplicated today causing us to scour the country and beyond for a variety of replacement parts and pieces,” explained Executive Vice President Kelly Schleif of Ganther Construction. Those challenges have prompted the hotel to take guests sometime next year, rather than by the end of 2018 as some had hoped. “We are going to take whatever time is necessary to finish it properly to make sure everything is exactly as everyone in the community expects it to be. And then we are going to open the doors," said General Manager John D. Williams. Williams is leading the project. Until then, the Poke the Bear restuarant at the hotel is set to open December 20 at 11 a.m. It will be open Tuesday through Saturday, serving lunch, dinner, and cocktails from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. The new bar and restaurant will expand its hours and days of service with the coming new year. Poke the Bear guests should enter at the hotel’s entrance at 304 N. Adams Street.

Create: Dec 16, 2018 Edit: Dec 17, 2018 International News

Check out the top 5 ski hotels opening their doors in 2019

There’s a certain chic to the idea of a ski chalet, a resort on the cusp of a mountain where glamorous folks carve their way down black diamond runs all day and warming themselves with wine and hot beverages by a fire each night. These sorts of luxury accommodations are a backbone of the hospitality industry within some of the most popular travel destinations in the world, particularly in places like Europe and parts of North America. With their cache and relation to winter sports, they essentially never go out of style. It perhaps comes as little surprise that information from the TOPHOTELPROJECTS database shows that 2019 will be another great year for new ski resort properties across the globe. Without further adieu, here are five of the top ski hotels opening in 2019 and beyond, as per TOPHOTELCONSTRUCTION: Andermatt Swiss Alps Andermatt is a year-round destination in the heart of the Swiss Alps. The Andermatt Swiss Alps resort is currently being developed with the likelihood of opening in late 2018 or early 2019. The complete resort will include six 4 and 5-star hotels, 490 apartments in 42 buildings, about 25 chalets, convention facilities as well as an indoor pool and an 18-hole golf course. In addition, the Andermatt and Sedrun ski areas are being merged into the attractive Andermatt-Sedrun ski destinations. The first of the six hotels, the Chedi Andermatt, has been opened since December 2013. This project stands to yield 844 new rooms.

Create: Dec 15, 2018 Edit: Dec 16, 2018 International News