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BENCHMARK® Adds Bermuda’s Historic Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa to Expanding Portfolio of Leisure & Incentive Travel Properties

BENCHMARK®, a global hospitality company, today announces the addition of Bermuda’s Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa to its international collection of resorts, hotels, and conference centers. The 90-year-old resort becomes the first property the management group will operate in the British territory widely known for its pink sand beaches and turquoise waters. “The addition of Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa to the Benchmark family marks an exciting milestone for our team: we prepare to operate our first resort in this legendary destination,” said Benchmark CEO Alex Cabañas. “Benchmark is thrilled to partner with Cambridge Beaches’ new ownership, Dovetail + Co, as we work together to elevate this notable property.” Located on Bermuda’s West End, Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa spans a private 20-acre peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Mangrove Bay. The property’s footprint includes 86 cottage-style suites that boost individual outdoor spaces, while select accommodations feature private plunge pools with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Four beach areas and a waterfront swimming pool offer guests a variety of options for oceanside lounging, and an on-site, five-acre ornamental garden showcases the tranquility of the destination. Spa lovers can indulge at Cambridge Beaches’ 10,000-square-foot Ocean Spa that is home to an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and fitness center. The resort’s multiple dining venues appeal to a range of palates, with a selection that reaches from causal poolside fare to elevated cuisine. Additional amenities include tennis courts, a putting green, croquet lawn, marina, and a watersports hub. Cambridge Beaches originally opened 90 years ago as Bermuda’s first cottage-style accommodations, although some buildings date back to the 1600s, shortly after the island’s discovery in 1609. Today, the resort remains a go-to for travelers from around the globe. As Cambridge Beaches transitions under its new ownership and management, the property will see updates to its rooms and public spaces and a refined guest experience

Create: May 22, 2021 Edit: May 22, 2021 International News

Peachtree Hotel Group Completes Multimillion-Dollar Renovation of Hampton Inn Baltimore

Peachtree Hotel Group (“Peachtree”) has completed a $5.3 million renovation of the Hampton Inn by Hilton Baltimore-Downtown Convention Center. The property-wide renovation of the 8-story, 126-room hotel featured a complete modernization of all guestrooms, public spaces and exterior settings. The hotel, operated by Peachtree Hospitality Management (“PHM”), a division of Peachtree, is located at 550 Washington Blvd. Peachtree acquired the property in 2019 due to its irreplaceable location in downtown Baltimore. The hotel is conveniently located across the street from Oriole Park at Camden Yards and adjacent to the Baltimore Convention Center. The hotel is also a short walk from the University of Maryland Medical Center, M&T Bank Stadium, home of the Baltimore Ravens, and the Horseshoe Casino Baltimore. “We are pleased with the improvements to the Hampton Inn, making it the most recently renovated hotel in the area,” said Patrick Short, president of PHM. “The top-to-bottom renovations were designed to meet the exacting demands of today’s business and leisure travelers.” The guestroom refurbishments focused on adding comfortable seating, enhanced lighting, contemporary artwork and room furnishings, and new televisions. The guest bathroom renovations included modern vanities and tub-to-shower conversions. To enhance the guest arrival experience, the hotel has new furniture, flooring, contemporary artwork and a reimaged front desk. The exterior setting was enhanced with brickwork and painting, with upgrades to lighting and seating. The hotel also has an updated pool area, corridors, public restrooms, a meeting room and a fitness room with all new equipment. “We have taken great steps to improve the guest experience while ensuring our guests are comfortable with the level of cleanliness throughout the hotel,” Short said.

Create: May 19, 2021 Edit: May 19, 2021 International News

Collaboration of nations to deepen Iran-Russia relations

Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Ali Asghar Mounesan said in a meeting with the Russian Ambassador to Tehran Levan Jagarian here on Tuesday evening that deepening the bilateral relations is possible through collaboration between the two nations. Tehran favors further improvement of comprehensive bilateral relations with Russia, but this is possible through upgrading the two nations’ ties, said Mounesan. Referring to his first visit to Russia, the Iranian official said the signing of the Shared Action Program and lifting the visa requirement for tourist groups of both countries are among the most important steps taken in that respect. Ambassador Jagarian, too, in the meeting referred to the ongoing visit of a group of Russian tourism industry activists in Iran and noted that the group in its visit identified Iran’s tourism potentials and is scheduled to depart for Russia tomorrow (on Wednesday). The Russian tourists are very eager to visit unexplored and adventurist destinations, and Iran with its historical background, natural attractions and unique potentials in ecotourism is an appropriate destination for them,” he said, referring to the Russians’ enthusiasm for visiting Iran.

Create: May 19, 2021 Edit: May 19, 2021 Regional News

Element by Westin Opens the 460-room Element Philadelphia in Pennsylvania

Element Hotels – part of Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 leading brands and designed for today’s healthy, active traveler – announce today the opening of Element Philadelphia, marking the brand’s debut in the city. Developed by Conshohoken-based Chestlen Development, the hotel will be the newest addition to Philadelphia’s reemerging hospitality scene, with travelers planning an average of 2.7 trips this year, according to a recent Visit Philadelphia report. Designed with a focus on sustainability and well-being, Element is ideal for families, groups and business travelers who want to maintain a balanced lifestyle while on the road. “Bringing the Element brand to Philadelphia was a strategic decision to appeal to the wellness-minded modern traveler, who is looking for self-sufficiency, more space to recharge, and amenities that align with their lifestyle,” stated Edward Baten, Complex General Manager, Element Philadelphia. “As the needs of travel, work and leisure have evolved over the last year, our offering is better suited than ever before to welcome guests with a range of work and life demands. Our flexible accommodations will open at a time when it’s needed most for leisure and business travelers alike.” Element Hotels has redefined the longer stay experience with a design philosophy that encourages guests to recharge and find focus. This approach is seen throughout Element Philadelphia, the brand’s largest property globally. The hotel’s 460 bright and modern guest rooms are positioned in an ideal Center City location and boast impressive views of Philadelphia’s historic architecture and skyline. The sunlit Sky Lobby will offer open seating for work and relaxation, and a range of safe, socially distanced amenities for guests to utilize. Fully equipped kitchens in every room, a business center, Motion Fitness center and guest laundry services create flexible work-from-anywhere possibilities. At Element Philadelphia, guests will be energized with a food and beverage program that prioritizes fresh, healthy ingredients. A complimentary Rise breakfast starts the day and the Relax evening reception invites guests to unwind together in the Sky Lobby. Balanced grab-and-go meals, snacks and beverages are available from the Restore gourmet pantry, which features products from local producers. In addition, guests are invited to eat well from the comfort of their own room. With kitchens stocked with everything needed to create a home-cooked meal, Element hopes to inspire guests by introducing local culinary and nutritional voices to provide easy-to-follow recipes. These digital recipes and meal ideas, which will be accessible via in-room QR codes and in pre-arrival emails, will feature fresh, local ingredients that can be picked up at iconic neighborhood markets such as Di Bruno Brothers and Reading Terminal Market. Designed to get visitors moving, Element Philadelphia features a Bikes to Borrow program with its custom-designed Priority Bicycles in unmistakable Element green. The Bikes to Borrow program provides suggested routes to help guests experience the city’s history, art or nearby bike trails. Whether on two wheels or walking with a four-legged friend, Element encourages guests and their pets to explore more. Element’s pet-friendly program includes a signature dog bed, treats, water bowls, eco-friendly clean-up supplies and more for travelers visiting with pets. Element Philadelphia offers more space for guests to live their lives in rooms ranging in size from a Standard guest room, to Deluxe and Executive guest rooms, to One Bedroom Suites. The signature Westin Heavenly® beds and spa-inspired bathrooms feature rain showers designed to infuse a sense of calm. Element is proud to be green from the ground up and has built a smarter, better place to stay. When choosing materials, Element Philadelphia’s design team pioneered eco-friendly, sustainable design that improves hotel air quality, minimizes pollutants and chemicals, and gives guests ample access to natural light, resulting in a cleaner, healthier environment. The hotel also integrates eco-friendly materials and practices into its design in a variety of ways, including: Electric vehicle charging stations Guestrooms featuring carpets with up to 100% recycled content Wall art mounted on a base made from recycled tires Walls featuring low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints Bathrooms featuring low-flow faucets and fixtures Silverware and glassware provided, minimizing single-use plastics and disposable waste Recycling is made easy with bins in every guestroom and throughout public spaces Filtered water is available in all guestrooms and in the public spaces through a dispenser unit Element Philadelphia uses only 100% recycled postconsumer wastepaper for all printing and stationery needs Element Philadelphia will soon provide access to over 45,000 square feet of purpose-built event space, fully adaptable for the changing dynamics of indoor meetings, events and celebrations. Guests of Element Philadelphia can travel with confidence with services adapted for COVID-19, adhering to Marriott’s Commitment to Clean standards throughout their stay, including contactless check-in, social distancing, increased cleanliness protocols and new UV-light cleaning technologies. Consisting of in-house and outside experts in food safety, hygiene and infection prevention, and hotel operations, the Marriott Cleanliness Council has redefined cleaning and safety standards.

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

Senior Team Alignment Critical for Leisure and Group Recovery Success

The recovery in the leisure sector is imminent, and we argue that small groups aren’t far behind given that ‘revenge travel’ also implies a strong yearning to reconnect and congregate. A return to healthy numbers won’t be evenly spread across all hotels, though. It will favor those properties and those organizations that are already prepared for a diverse range of ramp-up scenarios, with others leaving revenue on the table by not having plans in place prior to this next phase. While hotels could hardly have predicted or prevented the advent of COVID-19, what we’ve witnessed in the latter half of 2020 is an industry that’s largely reactive to macroeconomic forces. Many operators have hinged their hopes on a near-complete reversal to 2019 demand levels and guest expectations without any earnest consideration for structural innovation and becoming more adaptable to the increased volatility in the market. Luckily, there are a few shining stars that highlight where hospitality needs to be for the decade ahead, and we’re excited to present one such case herein. Newport Hospitality Group (NHG) is a management company that’s been operating for 30 years and now has over 50 managed properties in its portfolio spread all along the Eastern Seaboard. Most fascinating for our current conversation is that the organization has some inherent ‘antifragility’ (to borrow a term from the brilliant statistician and option trader Nassim Taleb) in that it thrives relative to its comp set not only during good times but also during periods of economic turmoil. Upon reviewing their annual RevPAR growth metrics, they’ve beaten their respective markets in every year since 2005. Emphasizing this is that during the calendar year of 2020 NHG dropped 7.9% less than the US RevPAR average and the company also added 10 properties to its portfolio. This echoes their relative CAGR for the recession of 2008-09 where they also substantially beat the market. Success Starts at the Senior Level In trying to decipher the secret to the longstanding NHG playbook, we had an extensive discussion with Wayne West III, NHG’s President. He explained that success during turbulent times hinges upon decisive attention at the senior level combined with a thorough comprehension of the roles and responsibilities for the onsite operator, the corporate office team and the owner. Finding the best alignment amongst these entities – which may or may not have different goals – is an initial step that is often overlooked. So much time is spent in planning meetings and getting approval for changes and new initiatives that operations can easily get bogged down through ‘decision by committee’. In particular, hospitality is more exposed to this problem than other industries given our highly vertical organizational structures and lack of monetary empowerment at the property level. These types of inertial situations can easily be exacerbated by conflicting visions and orders stemming from the three-headed, ‘Cerberus-like’ discord amongst the owners, brand and management company. The key is to find a balance of responsibilities. “In many ways, the hotel industry’s current situation is like a street race,” quipped West as he explained how immobility can compromise a hotel’s success. “You don’t start revving your engine when the light turns green. You rev in neutral so that you can fly out of the gates once the countdown hits zero. This resembles the state of many hotels as we gear up for a roaring Q3 and Q4. At NHG, we established a playbook for swiftly reacting to hard times even before the Great Recession to the point where it’s now baked into our culture. All our managed properties have a clear chain of command and are staffed up to handle a surge of both transient guests and group RFPs.” Indeed, one case where having alignment at the senior level is mission critical pertains to the reemergence of groups, starting with reunions, corporate retreats and wedding receptions later this fall in advance of larger MICE-type travel sometime in 2022. With those small group gatherings taking place in the autumn or winter, the planning starts in late spring or early summer, and hotels must have a sales team and group rate plan fully set up to win these contracts. To this end, one reason for NHG’s success versus its comp set in 2020 was because it retained its sales team throughout. This meant that they were fully ready to enter any negotiation with attractive offers and coronavirus-specific programs such as full-floor or section buyouts and operational staff pods to limit cross-exposure. Emphasizing Succession Planning To ingrain the first lesson above, far better than a lengthy deliberation over the best possible approach is to implement a reasonably satisfactory course then act quickly to adjust the plan as market conditions evolve. To enable this ability to pivot, onsite leaders must have a certain degree of autonomy and freedom to act within a proscribed framework. But how do you develop a culture of empowerment? One critical point that West highlighted to that end was succession planning and how many hotels aren’t prepared for a return to normalcy because they furloughed too many of their team members. This is especially evident for sales teams, whereby without key managers kept up to speed on a property’s event capabilities, each RFP cannot be addressed through a preestablished process. This results in teams constantly playing catch-up and reacting week-over-week to new inquiries rather than looking ahead to new initiatives that will advance the hotel’s revenue prospects. To ensure this type of problem never sets in, NHG prides itself on promoting from within and executive retention, with nearly half of their senior teams staying with the company for over a decade and nearly a quarter staying for over 20 years. A sharp focus on retention like this means that the onsite operators are totally in sync with ownership and the corporate office, intrinsically knowing how to implement the latter’s directives and hastily deploy resources to make those changes a reality. “A property is only as good as its GM,” remarked West to close out our talk, succinctly describing how, if the GM gives his or her managers a clear and actionable plan without backtracking or indecisiveness, then success is all but guaranteed. In this sense, nurturing great teams, especially during hard times like the current pandemic, is vital for decreasing conflict and aligning operations prior to periods of increased demand. Particularly at the senior level, the time to make your organization nimble and imbue a clear command structure for rapid action was yesterday. But, with hindsight being what it is, a close second place would be today. It’s never too late to chart a course for a profitable decade ahead, and our hope is that you can learn from this brief examination of NHG to see how you can create a culture of success.

Create: May 8, 2021 Edit: May 8, 2021 Hotel Management

The world’s tallest hotel, Dubai’s Ciel Tower

The skyline of Dubai is likely to be adorned with Yahya Jan’s creative work. He is president and design director of architectural and engineering firm NORR, responsible for some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Infinity and Atlantis Hotels. Now he is working on his most ambitious project, due for completion in 2023. The Ciel Tower will be home to more than 1,000 hotel rooms and suites and rise more than 1,200 feet (365 meters) above ground. For the project, Jan was tasked with designing the skyscraper on a triangular plot of land at Dubai Marina with an area of just 2,500 square meters — small for a building of that height. “It’s a property that’s very compressed. It’s like what you would face in Manhattan or London. The constraints were tremendous, and yet we had to make it work.” Yaya says. An observation deck that offers 360-degree views of Dubai and iconic landmarks such as the Palm Jumeirah will be built according to the First Group developer. From the restaurant and rooftop pool, visitors will be able to catch a glimpse of the city. Jan said the project appeals to the senses and is energy efficient, using 25% less energy for air conditioning than typical similar buildings. “This project is not just about architecture. It’s about architecture and engineering coming together. That’s why I love the project so much. It … is my passion, the convergence of science and art,” Yaya added. Twelve floors have been completed, but Jan said he remains “extremely involved” in work even this far into the build. “When you design a project as complex as the Ciel, you can never let your guard down, and you can never say it’s over,” he said. “It’s a continuous process.” Originally from Karachi in Pakistan, Yaya moved to the US when he was 18 on a scholarship and studied structural engineering at Princeton. He then did an MS in architecture. For the next nine years, Jan worked in the US and wasn’t planning to leave until he was offered a job as a senior designer for the Emirates Towers complex. The 57-year-old architect said he never imagined he would stay in Dubai for so long. “It’s been an amazing 25 years living here,” he said. As for the Ciel Tower — which is named for the French word for the sky — Jan hopes the building will be considered timeless, just like the Empire State Building or the Chrysler Building in New York City. “The reason I like the fact that it’s called Ciel is that I believe in our own lives the sky is the limit, and that’s the case certainly in my own life. I’ve had a chance to grow, to do things that I didn’t think I would get a chance to do. So it’s been amazing.” HE said.

Create: May 5, 2021 Edit: May 5, 2021 International News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cambria Hotels Marks Expansion in Airport Markets With Orlando Debut

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

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