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Hotels Are Slowly Recouping Business, But When Will the Corporate Guest Return

Predicting the return of corporate travel would be a cinch if foretelling the future was foolproof. No one, however, has that extraordinary prescience and even if they did, the future is, at best, murky. The continuing popularity of work-from-home arrangements, the COVID-19 induced reluctance of both individuals and companies to get back out on the road, and issues throughout the travel supply chain are all converging to create a less-than-hospitable environment for individual business travelers. “Before you get corporate travel back, you have to get people back to the office,” said Daniel Lesser, President and CEO of LW Hospitality Advisors. “It’s going to be a bit of a slog, at least until Labor Day.” Among the short-term problems, he continued, is airline flight capacity. “A lot of it will have to do with air lift. Carriers are being careful about yield management,” he said. However, Lesser added, “The summer is going to be phenomenal [for leisure travel] but the rubber will hit the road after in terms of group and corporate business.” Shifting BusinessLWHA’s COO and Principal Evan Weiss sees an even more dramatic delay on the horizon. “At the beginning, I thought the recovery would come first with leisure business, then leisure group, corporate transient and then corporate group,” he said. “But there’s been a paradigm shift. Companies now can cut back their travel by, for example, having two in-person board meetings and two on Zoom.” He continued, “After leisure, which is certainly back, we’re thinking corporate groups will be next to come back, and then corporate transient business.” That creates problems for hoteliers. In the U.S., the corporate average room rate in February 2020—the last full month before the coronavirus squeezed the life out of most of the global hotel industry—was $175.15. A year later, it stood at $111.03, down 35.6% year-over-year, according to HotStats data. In Europe, in February 2021, the corporate rate was €77.30, down 35.2% YOY. Meanwhile, in China, corporate travel didn’t have the dramatic swoon seen in other parts of the world. Its lowest point was in April 2020, when the corporate rate hit $65.65, a 24.8% YOY decline. As of April 2021, the $73.03 corporate rate was up 11.2% on the year prior, but still 16% lower than April 2019. The absence of corporate travel is equally disadvantageous since road warriors are typically higher-spending guests than their leisure counterparts. “Corporate folk pay at the last minute, then they book the Ritz-Carlton, and they’re often the ones who drink the most. If you lose that, it’s problematic,” Weiss said. But Chris Green, CEO of third-party management company Chesapeake Hospitality, has a rosier outlook on the return of corporate, framing it in the context of the domino effect. “Once a big player like Bank of America or Deloitte says ‘As long as you’re vaccinated and feel comfortable, you can travel,’ then it’s off to the races,” he said. “I believe companies will say ‘If you’re in a client-facing role, you have to get out there.’” Still, some timid travelers could remain skittish if they don’t feel safe and comfortable back at a hotel, Green noted, meaning properties must get the word out on the extraordinary efforts being taken to keep COVID-19 at bay. To do so, Chesapeake is “asking key questions about traveler confidence and experience and then using responses in sales and marketing presentations,” said Green. The company also is encouraging guests to share their experiences on travel-review sites. “We’re cleaner, safer and more sanitized than we’ve ever been,” Green said. “That needs to be the front-facing message because companies must feel certain that the hotels where they’re putting travelers are good citizens.”

Create: May 25, 2021 Edit: May 25, 2021 Hotel Management

The St. Regis Bermuda Resort Debuts in Historic Town of St. George’s

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts today announced the opening of The St. Regis Bermuda Resort. Extending the legacy of St. Regis from New York’s finest address of 55th and Fifth, the resort blends the timelessness of a bygone era with avant-garde Bermudian design and cultural influences. Situated in the historic Town of St. George’s, an UNESCO World Heritage site, and nestled among the soft sands and turquoise water of St. Catherine’s Beach, the resort is the first Marriott International luxury brand property to debut on the island. Drawing upon the celebrated spirit of leisure travel, The St. Regis Bermuda Resort seamlessly brings together elegant accommodations, exceptional amenities, and the brand’s signature Butler Service to create an enchanted island escape. “Bermuda has long served as an exclusive destination for the global luminaries, making it the ideal location to debut a glamorous new St. Regis resort. Much like the island, St. Regis is steeped in rich history, offering a storied past and exciting future,” said George Fleck, Vice President and Global Brand Leader for St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “The St. Regis brand’s founding family, the Astors, spent time on this beautiful island more than a century ago. Now, the House of Astor’s celebrated traditions and rituals will bring this visionary spirit, avant-garde style and impeccable service back to Bermuda where our address is your muse.” Spanning St. Catherine’s Beach in a gentle arc, the OBMI designed architecture and interiors of The St. Regis Bermuda Resort draw inspiration from the destination’s notable local geography, heritage and traditions, beautifully weaving the island’s legacy together with the glamourous spirit and sophistication of St. Regis. The resort features 120 elegant guestrooms, including 21suites and an ultra-luxury residential development offering two and three-bedroom residences. Each guestroom features a private balcony and is designed to immediately draw the eye to expansive ocean views and stunning vistas of Bermuda’s celebrated Fort St. Catherine. Speaking to the island’s bold fortitude, stone foundations and formations inform texture and patterns, while the purposeful irreverence of Bermuda’s fashion is brought in through saturated colors and striking geometry. The St. Regis Bermuda Resort promises to be an enchanted beachfront oasis for guests and local luminaries alike,” said Jan Vanhaelewyn, General Manager at The St. Regis Bermuda Resort. “With bespoke service, exquisite design, outstanding culinary venues, the historic Five Forts Golf Course, and more than a dash of glamour, we hope to inspire and contribute to the local hospitality landscape and help elevate luxury in this iconic leisure destination.” The resort’s sophisticated food and beverage offerings include Lina, a flavorful all-day restaurant whose name is a playful nod to the nickname of St. Regis’ founding patroness Mrs. Caroline Astor. This venue features a delectable, light and fresh menu that leans into Bermuda’s coastal offerings and is inspired by the irreverent glamour of yachting clubs of the past. In the evening, the signature blackboards of famed BLT Steak NY will share daily specials, offering guests the finest in modern steakhouse fare. At the iconic St. Regis Bar, guests can socialize and celebrate while enjoying champagne, libations and light bites. The resort will also debut the Gates Bay Mary, its unique twist on the brand’s signature cocktail – the Bloody Mary. The Gates Bay Mary is named for the turquoise bay bordering the resort and infuses native fennel, Goslings Gold Seal Rum, Outerbridge’s Original Sherry Peppers Sauce, and a special spice mix created on the island Overlooking azure waters, the resort features both an adult and a family pool where guests can lounge luxuriantly or enjoy a private cabana for an exclusive retreat. Indulgence and relaxation awaits at the St. Regis Spa, which offers a comprehensive menu of unique personalized treatments using natural and precious elements and featuring products by Sothys. Additionally, a 24-hour fitness center offers state-of-the-art equipment. Younger guests will be able to enjoy unique amenities and enriching activities at The St. Regis Children’s Club, while Family Traditions programming offers meaningful excursions and experiences for the whole family. True to the Astors love for sports and speed, both guests and locals can relax with a day on the links or a night at the casino. Breathing new life into a historic landmark, the scenic Five Forts Golf Course is a marvelous and challenging 18-hole course. Named for the five notable forts that surround it, leisure seekers will tee off near Fort Victoria and enjoy captivating ocean views as they make their way through the 4,436-yard course, concluding at Fort St. Catherine. State-of-the-art, GPS-enabled golf carts will ensure the brand’s bespoke service reaches guests no matter where they are on the green. For a dazzling evening of sophistication and glamour, the resort proudly features the St. Regis brand’s first casino, slated to open later this year. This 5,500 sq. ft. gaming floor offers a variety of options for guests looking to roll the dice, in addition to a salon privé with two private tables. As the finest address for truly bespoke events and celebrations, the resort also features 10,989 sq. ft. of event space. Perfect for executive retreats, family gatherings, or enjoying milestone moments, offerings include a state-of-the-art boardroom, an exceptional ballroom that can host up to 150 people and a stunning terrace for oceanside events. The resort can also create a personalized, private set up on the beach while an additional event lawn located at the 18th hole of the Five Forts Golf Course offers spectacular sunset views overlooking both the ocean and Fort St. Catherine. Informed by the brand’s legacy of celebration from the Gilded Age to the present day, each event at The St. Regis Bermuda is thoughtfully curated and complemented with exceptional service.

Create: May 25, 2021 Edit: May 25, 2021 International News

AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea Opens in Hawaii Marking Brand Debut

AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea officially opens its doors today as the newest hotel and the first property in the Hawaiian Islands for the design-driven AC Hotels lifestyle brand. Part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, the hotel marks a significant milestone in delivering an effortless travel experience that strikes the perfect balance between everything you need, and nothing you don’t, in the stunning leisure destination of Maui. Nestled on three acres on the sunny southwestern coastline, AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea features 110 guestrooms with 12 suites, and an infinity-edge pool with a hot tub and cabanas. The hotel offers a perfectly curated experience, focused on the meaningful details and services that enhance every guest’s stay, allowing them to recharge and focus on the beauty of the island. “Our new hotel seamlessly blends the AC brand’s signature amenities with Maui’s naturally-inspiring landscape, people and aesthetics,” says Kaleo Kenui, Dual General Manager for AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea and Residence Inn Maui Wailea. “The overall design is an artistic rendition based on genuine Hawaiian experiences blending with modern life and a recognition of the diverse cultures forming Maui’s remarkable melting pot of humanity.” Large glass panels depicting ocean waves are illuminated at the main entrance acknowledging its proximity to the ocean and the important role it plays on the island. The sunken lounge surrounded by natural lava with tatami-styled flooring pattern of lava stone, varieties of tribal necklaces made from different shells, woodwork, prints and elements are curated throughout the hotel, recognizing the cultural influences of Asian and Pacific-Islander communities. Finally, 100 strands of lei made from dried seeds, berries and flowers, varying up to 12-feet in length, are strung into two beautiful tapestries at the lobby honoring the Hawaiian tradition of gifting lei as a symbol of aloha. “While the new hotel offers more options for visitors, it also allows us to continue supporting our local economy by infusing as much locally-produced art, crafts and culinary creations as we can and creating more jobs,” says Kenui. Intimate and modern, AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea presents two al-fresco and versatile dining options: AC Kitchen and KAI. AC Kitchen—framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, presents guests with a blend of international and Hawaiian inspired cuisine; wine, charcuterie, and fromage tastings; and locally curated delicacies for special culinary events. KAI, meaning “sea” or “seaside” in Hawaiian, is the poolside tiki bar featuring a long, rectangular lava stone firepit that brings a warm and cozy experience to the outdoors, complementing the spectacular sunset views of the Pacific Ocean and neighbor islands. The sophisticated, modern guestrooms feature a neutral-palette color scheme, hardwood floors, and sleek and elevated furnishings to create a greater sense of flow and space. Guests will enjoy smart features like ambiance controls to adjust temperature and lighting, plus traditional and USB outlets in all the right places. The rooms feature curated artwork that reflect Maui and offer views of the Pacific Ocean; islands Lanaʻi, Kahoʻolawe and Molokini; and Mount Haleakala. All rooms will have a private lanai, ensuring guests have the outdoor space they deserve to relax in paradise. AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea features additional signature AC public spaces. Designed with an upscale feel and equipped with business center amenities, including a computer work station and printer services, AC Library provides a flexible environment for guests to work and collaborate. For guests looking to maintain their exercise routine while on vacation, AC Fitness Center is open 24 hours a day with the latest fitness equipment including exercise machines, free weights, lifting benches and a stretching area. AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea is within walking distance to Wailea, Ulua, Mōkapu, and Keawakapu beaches and retail centers Wailea Village, Wailea Gateway, and The Shops at Wailea offering 100 shops and galleries combined. Other nearby experiences include more than 40 restaurants and bars, world-class spas, Wailea Tennis Club and Wailea Golf’s three championship courses. AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea will open committed to its guests and team members’ safety. It will follow Marriott International’s Commitment to Clean operating standards and protocols that include enhanced health and safety standards, anchored by the company’s Global Cleanliness Council. These include guest and associate face-covering requirements, social distancing policies, reduced seating capacity for meetings, frequent cleaning of high-touch areas, hand sanitizing stations throughout the hotel and mobile technology.

Create: May 25, 2021 Edit: May 25, 2021 International News

Khorramshahr, a prime destination for war tourism

In the past, war tourism destinations were mainly the object of interest of photojournalists appearing solely on pages of crime, but now they can be traced in top travel books and websites. Whatever you call it, from war tourism, dark tourism, disaster tourism, or danger tourism, Iran has more to offer after being involved in the second-longest war of the 20th-century after the Vietnam War. Amongst many border cities directly involved in the 1980–1988 war, Khorramshahr is highly honored as a symbol of resistance during the war against Iraqi invaders. Moreover, the port city is high on the ‘will go’ index of adventure travelers interested in such niche tourism. At this time of the year, Iranians hold special ceremonies to honor the fallen soldiers and to cherish the strength and resistance of the people during “the Sacred Defense Week”, starting on Shahrivar 31 (September 21 this year) when Iraqi armed forces invaded western Iran. The third of Khordad (May 24) marks the anniversary of the liberation of Khorramshahr from Saddam Hussein’s invading army back in May 1982 when Iranians laid another foundation for sacrifice, resistance, and final victory with their blood. Iranian forces recaptured the southwestern strategic port city in a landmark operation code-named Beit ol-Moqaddas. According to Sajad Goharpak, the tourism chief of Khorramshahr, 25 spots have so far been identified in the port city which makes it a noteworthy destination when it comes to war tourism. “Khorramshahr is so great that right now we are facing a museum city because countless incidents took place in every neighborhood of the city.” For now, the country has largely been restored, and very few signs of the war, apart from street names and murals of the martyrs on some streets, can be found. These are the areas where domestic travelers usually go by tour packages are called “Rahiane Nour” (“The Path of Light”). For those interested to visit an epitome of frontlines elsewhere from the former battlefields, Tehran embraces several destinations; the Sacred Defense Museum, Tehran Peace Museum, and Behesht-e Zahra—a graveyard where many of the martyrs are buried. The epic-scale Sacred Defense Museum does bargain something different in modern Iranian history where you can delve into wreckages of rockets, tanks, rifles, vessels, mortars, radars, air defense systems, grounded jets, military supplies, and artillery pieces amongst others. The museum is equipped with a state-of-the-art visual system including projections and video walls, while audio recordings relevant to each period contribute to its charm. The recreation of the liberation of the city of Khorramshahr by the means of virtual exhibits and video projections is amongst the main features of the museum where stands a replica of the Khorramshahr mosque adorned with creamy and turquoise patterned tiles. Some tourists say they are not just interested in visiting live or former warzones out of curiosity. What motivates them is guessing the stories of people who lost their lives, being displaced, wounded, captured, or lost their loved ones in those bitter moments of the history of mankind.

Create: May 25, 2021 Edit: May 25, 2021 Regional News

Iran could become hub for ‘vaccine tourism

Iran has the potential to become a destination for vaccine tourism regarding considerable efforts the country is making to develop series of domestic COVID-19 vaccines, the tourism minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan has said. There is a capacity to add ‘vaccine tourism’ to the ‘health tourism basket’ of the country after all [Iranian] people are received vaccines…. and the move could fuel a boom in the tourism sector of the country.” In the near future, we will possess the capacity to provide foreigner travelers with the COVID-19 vaccine, especially those from the neighboring countries,” Mounesan said. The Islamic Republic is among the first countries which started developing a vaccine against coronavirus, and now four companies are endeavoring to release their products by September and inoculate the whole population. Out of 16 vaccine production cases, four cases have received a code of ethics and are undergoing clinical trial; it is hoped that another three to four cases will succeed in receiving license by September. According to available data compiled by the tourism ministry, the number of foreign visitors to Iran plunged 94% in the first nine months of the past Iranian calendar year (ended March 20, 2021) as the coronavirus pandemic takes a heavy toll on the tourism industry. The coronavirus epidemic has ruined more than 1.5 million jobs in Iran’s travel sector, tourism minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan said in December. “Over 1.5 million jobs have been lost in the tourism sector of Iran due to the COVID-19 disease…. Many of the tourism-insiders are now unemployed or they are staying at home,” according to Mounesan. Tourism [industry of Iran] was growing before the corona [outbreak], its revenues reached $11.7 billion in 2019, which accounted for 2.8% of GDP, near the average share of tourism in the world GDP, which was 3.2 percent, the minister explained. The ancient land embraces hundreds of historical sites such as bazaars, museums, mosques, bridges, bathhouses, madrasas, mausoleums, churches, towers, and mansions, of which 24 being inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Under the 2025 Tourism Vision Plan, the country aims to increase the number of tourist arrivals from 4.8 million in 2014 to 20 million in 2025.

Create: May 24, 2021 Edit: May 25, 2021 Regional News

Iran considers opening borders to vaccinated travelers

Iran is weighing plans to open its borders to vaccinated tourists though it isn’t yet clear exactly when tourists will be allowed to arrive. The Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts have already started extensive consultations with other government ministries for the reopening of borders to vaccinated travelers, the deputy minister Vali Teymouri said on Wednesday. “One of the issues that we are pursuing strongly through various committees is the arrival of international citizens who have been vaccinated so that won’t pose a threat or concern to the Iranian society,” the official said. “We have put forward the proposal to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Health, and to the President (Hassan Rouhani) as well.” He went on to say that other countries are planning to open borders to vaccinated tourists. “We estimate that soon, various tourist destinations in the world, including the European Union, will open their doors to international tourists implementing a vaccine-passport approach….” Earlier in March, the Head of the Iranian Tour Operators Association Ebrahim Pourfaraj asked the government to issue tourist visas for the international applicants who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. “The Ministry of Health and the National Headquarters for Coronavirus Control can at least agree that the international tourists who have received the [second dose of] coronavirus vaccine would be allowed to enter Iran,” Pourfaraj said. He also lamented that the continuation of such a trend would result in losing international tourist markets more than before. “Or at least they should make it clear so that we can respond appropriately to foreign companies and tourists to not to miss the international tourist markets more than before,” he said. According to available data compiled by the tourism ministry, the number of foreign visitors to Iran plunged 94% in the first nine months of the past Iranian calendar year (ended March 20, 2021) as the coronavirus pandemic takes a heavy toll on the tourism industry. “Some 450,000 foreign travelers arrived in Iran for mainly medical or trade purposes during the first nine months of the year… tightened measures to tackle the new coronavirus has reduced international travel to the country by 94 percent,” Teymouri said. The coronavirus epidemic has ruined more than 1.5 million jobs in Iran’s travel sector, tourism minister Ali-Asghar Mounesan said in December. “Over 1.5 million jobs have been lost in the tourism sector of Iran due to the COVID-19 disease…. Many of the tourism-insiders are now unemployed or they are staying at home,” Mounesan said. Smart and responsible traveling should replace “do not travel” recommendations, the minister stressed, adding: “In our country, Corona has caused problems in the tourism industry and the worrying point is the continuation of this trend.” Tourism [industry of Iran] was growing before the corona [outbreak], its revenues reached $11.7 billion in 2019, which accounted for 2.8% of GDP, near the average share of tourism in the world GDP, which was 3.2 percent, the minister explained. The ancient land embraces hundreds of historical sites such as bazaars, museums, mosques, bridges, bathhouses, madrasas, mausoleums, churches, towers, and mansions, of which 24 being inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Under the 2025 Tourism Vision Plan, the country aims to increase the number of tourist arrivals from 4.8 million in 2014 to 20 million in 2025.

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

The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm Debuts on Iconic Palm Jumeirah Island

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, today announced the highly anticipated debut of The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm. Heralding the storied heritage and celebrated traditions of St. Regis, this hotel joins a dynamic global portfolio and brings the brand’s signature hallmarks of bespoke service, innovative design, and exquisite experiences to the world-famous island and cosmopolitan city of Dubai. “With its spectacular skyline, breathtaking desert landscapes, contemporary architecture, thriving culture and varied entertainment offerings, Dubai is one of the most sought-after destinations for global leisure travellers,” said Sandeep Walia, Area Vice President – United Arab Emirates, Marriott International. “The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm is an exquisite addition to our global portfolio and offers a century-old legacy of uncompromising refinement and bespoke service on Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah.” “We are delighted to welcome the St. Regis brand to our portfolio of hospitality partners. Palm Jumeirah is firmly established as world-leading destination for living, leisure and tourism, and the opening of The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm brings yet another world-class hospitality offering to the island’s ever-growing list of attractions, including The View, which opened at the top of The Palm Tower last month. With its enviable location, luxury facilities and signature service, the hotel is sure to be a draw for UAE residents and Dubai’s regional and global luminaries,” said Omar Khoory, Chief Assets and Hospitality Officer at Nakheel. Sophisticated Design and Exceptional AccommodationsDesigned to feature the brand’s sophisticated aesthetic, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm balances local influences with the modern glamour and visionary spirit of St. Regis. Elegant décor and contemporary interiors are accentuated with bespoke elements such as the hotel’s grand staircase, which is embellished with gold detailing that encircles an exquisite chandelier. Inspired by the Arabian palm tree, the chandelier is gilded with shimmering crystals that gracefully illuminate the ground floor of the hotel. The intimate lobby features plush lounge areas and a tucked-away library lit by an artful fireplace. The corridors and gathering spaces are adorned with a thoughtfully curated art collection featuring contemporary artwork and paintings. The 264 lavishly appointed guestrooms and 26 elegant suites offer luxuriant comfort, exceptional amenities and expansive views of Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm features the renowned hallmarks of the St. Regis brand, including St. Regis Butler Service, which allows each guest to customise their stay according to personal tastes and preferences. Distinctive Culinary ExperiencesThe hotel is a vibrant lifestyle destination with a diverse selection of restaurants, bars and lounges. Cordelia sets the tone for a sophisticated evening, offering a variety of flavourful cuisine, including premium cuts of meat and seafood sourced from around the world – expertly prepared and grilled to perfection. Her by Caroline Astor offers an elegant gathering place to enjoy the brand’s signature Afternoon Tea. The ladies-only venue is an intimate setting and features curated tea pairings and a locally inspired take on this acclaimed St. Regis ritual. The iconic St. Regis Bar extends the legacy of the King Cole Bar at the brand’s flagship property at 55th and Fifth Ave. in New York City, where the world-renowned Bloody Mary cocktail was born in 1934. Guests can enjoy The Glitzy Mary, a locally inspired take on the brand’s signature beverage, which features traditional Emirati flavours including date syrup, an aromatic bezaar spice blend, sun-dried lime and earthy saffron. The poolside restaurant, Dip Pool Bar, with scenic views of Dubai’s skyline, is the ideal place to relax and enjoy a light meal. Honouring a signature tradition at St. Regis properties around the world, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm marks the transition from day to evening with a celebratory sabering at dusk. Rejuvenation for the Body and SoulA luxurious oasis, The St. Regis Spa offers transformative and bespoke signature treatments including the Signature Gold Journey, which uses 24k gold to nourish and strengthen the skin. Guests can work out in the exclusive Fitness Center, featuring a range of cardio and strength equipment, or enjoy a leisurely swim in a choice of two pools, one for families and one for adults. The hotel is also steps away from soft sandy beaches and the soon-to-open St. Regis Beach Club. A Sophisticated Destination for Bespoke EventsMarking the brand’s legacy of iconic celebrations, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm boasts an elegant Astor Ballroom, which is brightly lit with natural daylight and features grand sculpted doors, blended silk rugs and a striking chandelier with abstract fluted glass leaves. From intimate events to lavish celebrations and business gatherings alike, the hotel offers choice and flexibility with its six multi-purpose meeting rooms all equipped with state-of-the-art technology. “We are delighted to have opened the doors of The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm and look forward to inviting guests to enjoy our rituals and traditions, alongside exceptional luxury and anticipatory service,” said Marwan Fadel, General Manager, The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm. The City’s Finest AddressThe St. Regis Dubai, The Palm occupies the first 18 floors of The Palm Tower, a stunning new 52-story landmark development connected to the Nakheel Mall which offers world class shopping, a variety of culinary venues and entertainment options. Guests can also access the Palm Monorail from the mall for a scenic route to the landmarks of Palm Jumeirah. On the 52nd floor of the tower, The View at The Palm is an exclusive observation deck that rests 240 metres above the iconic island and offers sweeping, 360-degree views of Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf and the city skyline, as well as an interactive experience showcasing the history and creativity behind the island. The hotel is also a three-minute drive to The Pointe, an iconic waterfront destination, with restaurants, shops, and the world’s largest fountain measuring 7,327 square metres.

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

Core Hospitality Signs Agreement With Marriott International to Bring Fairfield by Marriott to Denmark

Danish management company Core Hospitality has signed an agreement with Marriott International to debut Fairfield by Marriott in Denmark. Expected to open in 2023, Fairfield by Marriott Copenhagen Nordhavn will be located in the city’s North Harbour district, just five kilometres from the city centre. Thoughtfully considered for the European market, the 222- guestroom hotel is set to offer the brand’s renowned warm service, along with amenities including 24/7 retail outlet, bar, gym and bike rental. “It’s an honour to bring our partnership with Marriott International to new heights with the signing of Fairfield by Marriott Copenhagen Nordhavn. The hotel’s prime location on the waterfront at PFA’s Nordø project in Copenhagen’s North Harbor district provides a beautiful backdrop for the new hotel.” says Per Denker Sørensen, CEO of Core Hospitality. “We look forward to welcoming guests with Fairfield by Marriott’s longstanding tradition of warm hospitality, paired with relaxed and efficient design and modern, timeless style.” The hotel is expected to showcase Fairfield by Marriott’s design ethos inspired by the beauty of simplicity. The effortlessly relaxed and efficient hotel design is fused with a modern, timeless and contemporary North European aesthetic and draws inspiration from the hotel’s peaceful waterfront surroundings. Further enhancing Fairfield by Marriott Copenhagen Nordhavn’s credentials, the hotel is expected to be built in compliance with the eco-certificate DGNB Gold and operated as a Green Key hotel, making it one of the most sustainable hotels in the area. The hotel will be located just 500 metres from the nearest metro station, which will take guests straight into the city centre in under six minutes. The transformed North Harbour district, one of Europe’s largest new urban development areas, includes several local offerings such as the Sandkaj harbour bath, Lüder’s recreational space, a cinema, supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes. Fairfield by Marriott Copenhagen Nordhavn will be part of the dual-branded complex, which also includes longer stay hotel Residence Inn Copenhagen Nordhavn, another Marriott International branded property.

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

Colebrook Financial Announces Receivable Loan to Latitude Vacation Club

Latitude Vacation Club has entered into an agreement with Colebrook Financial Company, a leading lender to the timeshare and travel club industries to provide a receivable loan. Latitude Vacation Club’s home resort, Ancora Cap Cana Marina Resort & Villas is inside Cap Cana, a gated community of 33,000 acres—twice the size of Manhattan– located 10 minutes from Punta Cana’s International Airport. This is a first-time development for Cecil Latta, well known for his sales and marketing successes at Westgate Resorts, Tempus Resorts, and El Cid Vacations Club in Mexico. As CEO and Founder of Latitude Vacation Club, headquartered in Celebration, FL, Latta is focused on offering 20 year memberships in Latitude Vacation Club+ featuring Ancora Cap Cana Marina Resort and Villas. In addition to some the best Bill Fishing in the world, Latitude Vacation Club+ members may enjoy one of the Dominican Republic’s most famous attractions, Scape Park, as well as Punta Espada a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course rated number 1 in Mexico and the Caribbean since 2011, an equestrian center called Los Establos with FIFA certified soccer (football) fields. Bill Ryczek, Principal of Colebrook Financial said: “We’ve worked with Cecil Latta on other projects and are delighted to finance his new offering in the Dominican Republic. He’s been known for years as one of the top sales and marketers in the timeshare industry, and we’re glad to see him developing his own project for the first time. We think there’s some real opportunity for growth, and thus far sales have been terrific, despite current travel conditions. Once travel opens up, we expect excellent results.” Latitude and Cecil Latta have had a working relationship with Colebrook Financial Company’s Bill Ryczek and Tom Petrisko for years. Latta says, “Getting to know them, their personal and professional integrity made working with them a simple choice. What about Colebrook is outstanding? Even during the most challenging of times Colebrook has stuck to their lending plans when many others decided not to.” Colebrook is a pioneer in many forms of financing and began working with club products before most lenders. Few competitors can match their longevity in the industry. They enjoy a reputation for adapting to new situations more quickly than larger institutions.

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

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

Village Hotels Installs Google Nest Hub Solution Powered by Volara Across All 32 U.K. Hotels

Village Hotels has selected Volara to voice enable all guestrooms and guest services in its portfolio of hotels across the United Kingdom with Google’s hotel solution. Volara’s conversation-management software and secure integrations hub will enable guests staying at any of the innovative hotel brand’s 32 properties to use simple voice commands to interact with the hotel and personalise their experiences, from making service requests and setting alarms to asking for local recommendations and or hotel information. Together, this technology will enable Village Hotels’ guests to get what they want, when they want it, without lifting a finger. Further, frequent guests of Village Hotels can easily make their next reservation at any Village Hotels location — from Portsmouth to Bristol to London — by simply saying, “Hey Google, call reservations.” Volara’s platform-agnostic software turns popular voice assistants into a hotel business tool that drives more efficient guest service, influences guests’ behaviour by promoting hotel amenities and guest activities, measurably improves net promoter scores by 20 percent, and helps hoteliers understand their guests better. Volara’s secure integrations hub connects hotels to more than 50 powerful technologies, including property-management systems, IPTV systems, work order-management systems, room controls, guest-engagement platforms, valet software, staff alert technologies and more. Volara is the only hotel-focused solution with an Alexa for Business Solution Designation. Volara is a launch partner for Google’s Hotel Solution, Google Assistant Interpreter Mode, and Alexa for Hospitality. Today the company provides conversation management software and secure integrations for 98 percent of the hotels using voice assistants across the globe. “Village Hotels are designed to give travelers a truly immersive guest experience,” said Jon Davis, Village Hotels CTO. “That means giving guests a contactless way to talk to us. We want to answer their questions and fulfill requests quickly and accurately without a lot of staff interaction. To do this ― as well as to get to know our customers better and anticipate their needs on future stays at any hotel in our system — Village has become the first hotel brand to commit to voice enabling its entire portfolio with Google’s hotel solution customised, implemented, and supported by Volara. “From a Google Nest Hub smart display set up in each room, we can specifically and immediately address guest requests on voice command,” he said. “Guests can make their stay more seamless by saying things like ‘Hey Google, set an alarm for tomorrow morning at 8AM,’ or learn more about Village Hotels’ exclusive offers and popular loyalty program by saying things like ‘Hey Google, how do I join the Booking Revolution?’ or ‘Hey Google, tell me about VWorks.’ With the best of Google and Volara, we know we are getting the most secure and flexible platform in hospitality. Both companies share in our commitment to maintain guest privacy and deliver truly brand consistent experiences.” Village Hotel’s voice technology rollout began in 2019 at the Village Hotel Portsmouth, Village Hotel Bristol, and Village Hotel Basingstoke. Properties in London Watford, Farnborough, and Southampton Eastleigh have already been enabled with the solution in every guestroom. Over the coming months, the hotel brand will be bringing the solution to every guestroom at Aberdeen, Birmingham, Blackpool, Bournemouth, Cardiff, Chester, Coventry, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool, Maidstone, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, Solihull, Swansea, Swindon, Warrington, and Wirral. “Village Hotels is the first hotel brand to commit to voice enabling its entire portfolio,” said David Berger, Volara CEO. “As Village Hotels continue to grow, our solution will grow with it. This leading hotel brand is raising the bar on guest engagement — driving satisfaction and loyalty one guest voice command at a time. Together we are delivering contextually relevant, totally awesome, conversational experiences at scale.”

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

Think In-Room Wellness to Welcome Back Post-Pandemic Guests

The concept we want you to remember is ‘post-COVID stress disorder’ (PCSD), inscribing those guests who are emerging from the pandemic, and most likely vaccinated, yet still have some lingering fears about travel and their exposure to the virus. To quell these doubts, and turn a buck while at it, consider the idea of merchandising spa and wellness products within the guestroom. As background, it’s important to note that with all the lockdowns of 2020 and repeated messaging about physical distancing and self-isolation, new habits have solidified and have caused many of us to become more introspective or introverted, even as we opt to set sail and explore the world once again. Thus, customers will expect hotels to respond to this behavioral shift with new amenities in the guestroom so that we can all still have a great hotel experience but without strictly relying upon access to onsite (and potentially high contact) facilities to achieve this. Indeed, most of the major brands are already seizing upon this in-room wellness trend, like Accor’s All Stay Well or Hyatt Together which are both on-demand content services offering a range of exercise, meditation, mobility, sleep or yoga routines, often through partnerships with leading players in the wellness space. What we emphasize here is that if the big chains are bolstering their brand standards in this regard, then you cannot allow your property to get left behind. The beauty therein is that wellness is such a catchall term these days that you can get as creative as your budget permits to build a unique interpretation. While you may not have the resources to put together a full-fledged app, this shouldn’t stop you from exploring your options. Get your team together; make it a fun brainstorming exercise. Here are some ideas: Onsite fitness, meditation or yoga calls, kept within the new guidelines for viral safety via clearly marked attendee floor circles, strict online booking for contact tracing and the option of a video alternative for those who want to remain in their rooms Basic exercise equipment like yoga mats, bands, roam rollers or light weights, available in the room or at request, and always disinfected prior to delivery Healthy foods with nutritional tidbits, available as a surprise-and-delight welcome amenity, as part of a rejuvenated room service program or in the minibar, again abiding by sanitization rules In-room aromatherapy, which can encompass flowers, allergen-free materials, essential oil diffusers or branded scents Anything else that can bring the calming experience of an onsite spa into the guestroom such as beauty product or grooming samples Personal wellness consultations, conducted either in-person with physical distancing, or via your preferred platform for videoconferencing Mindfulness enhancers such as stimulating in-room artwork, hydrotherapy, daily haikus or thoughtful materials accessible via a phone, tablet or TV Undoubtedly your team can come up with a myriad of incredible recommendations that are tailored to your specific region if you give them a day or two. Importantly with all of these ideas listed above, there’s the possibility for an upsell by making these prearrival purchases, add-on services at any extra cost, bundling them into a rooms package or incorporating them into a higher product tier. Take heed, though, as right now these wellness amenities can be marketed or sold as a value-add for your brand. Similar to what we’ve seen with the rapid adoption of upgraded cleanliness and safety SOPs this past spring, these aspirational trends can have a way of quickly becoming the expectation. The more that chains embrace in-room wellness, the more likely these amenities are to be perceived as hospitality standards rather than noteworthy value-adds. To get started, it need not be something so elaborate and comprehensive. Simple is often better.

Create: May 17, 2021 Edit: May 17, 2021 Hotel Management