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Omni Bedford Springs Appoints Director of Sales & Marketing and Promotes Director of Food & Beverage

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Bedford Springs, Pa. (Nov. 11, 2015) - The scenic Omni Bedford Springs Resort in the Allegheny Mountains of South Central Pennsylvania is proud to announce a new addition to its executive team and two promotions in its food and beverage department. Hospitality professionals John Hess, Chef David Noto and Kimberly McCombie each bring experience in developing and overseeing results-driven programs that create memorable experiences for guests.

John Hess, Director of Sales and Marketing
A talented sales professional with experience in leading a multitude of resorts along the east coast, John Hess joins Omni Bedford Springs Resort as director of sales and marketing. In this role, he's tasked with overseeing the resort sales team and developing innovative strategies to increase revenues and drive business, with a focus on group clientele. Hess arrived from nearby Seven Springs Mountain Resort, where he was the director of sales for the past five years. In years prior, he held key sales management positions at properties in the mid-Atlantic, including director of sales at Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort in Snowshoe, W.Va.; general manager / director of sales at Mariners Landing Resort and Conference Center in Huddleston, Va.; and director of sales at Wintergreen Resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

Hess made his debut in hospitality sales in 2002 as the corporate sales manager of Omni Richmond Hotel in Richmond, Va. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in mass communications from St. Andrews Presbyterian College in Laurinburg, N.C., as well as a master's degree in business administration from the University of Richmond. Committed to staying active and involved in industry and community affairs, Hess has previously served as mayor of the Rockwood Borough in Pennsylvania from 2013 to 2015, as well as a member of the Pennsylvania Association of Travel and Tourism Board from 2014 to 2015.

David Noto, Director of Food and Beverage
After originally joining the resort as executive chef in 2010 and proving to be both imaginative and skillful in his creative culinary mastery, Chef David Noto has been promoted to director of food and beverage. Bringing nearly two decades of high-end restaurant experience to the table, Chef Noto manages dining operations and procurement for six restaurants and food outlets at Omni Bedford Springs Resort, in addition to supervising room service, banqueting and special events. Prior to his time at the resort, Chef Noto spent seven years as executive chef of AAA Four Diamond-rated Hilton Dallas Lincoln Center.

Chef Noto has previously held senior positions at a wide array of other highly rated properties, including executive chef of the Petroleum Club in Fort Worth, Texas; executive sous chef of The Fairmont in San Francisco, Calif.; banquet chef at The Worthington Hotel in Fort Worth, Texas; and garde manger chef at The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Va. He got his start at The Worthington Hotel back in 1991, later returning again in 1995.
In years past, Chef Noto was a culinary instructor at the Art Institute of Dallas from 2006 to 2010, teaching courses in American regional cuisine with Latin influences, classical cuisine and food purchasing. He graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y., with an Associate of Arts in culinary arts in 1991.

Kimberly McCombie, Assistant Director of Food and Beverage
With a proven track record of increasing yearly sales, Kimberly McCombie has been promoted to assistant director of food and beverage at Omni Bedford Springs Resort. McCombie's responsibilities will expand to include assisting Chef Noto in managing all culinary operations and overseeing the operation of six restaurants and food outlets, as well as room service, banqueting and special events.

McCombie came to the resort in 2014 after spending nearly 10 years at management-level positions for several Olive Garden restaurants in Pennsylvania and Maryland, where she supervised restaurant managers along with 80 team members and assisted in the execution and roll-out of new menu items for 10 restaurants. She climbed her way up to management level after originally joining Olive Garden as a server in 2001. McCombie attended Pennsylvania State University studying hotel, restaurant and institutional management.

For more information about Omni Bedford Springs Resort, please call 1-800-The-Omni or visit OmniHotels.com/Bedford.


100-Point Wines As A Marketing Tool

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By Larry Mogelonsky, MBA, P. Eng, (www.lma.com)

When it comes to wine, numbers are important. Those who are aficionados understand ratings issued by Wine Spectator, Robert Parker, Wine Advocate and so on. (New entrants are also coming onto the scene to guide beginner oenophiles on their quest for grape enlightenment; try playing around with the mobile app ‘Vivino’.)

Each of these well-known resources ranks vintages every year based upon their staffs’ finely tuned and trained palates. The rating scales used tend to be logarithmic in design whereby an 88-scoring drop – while quite acceptable for the average person – is really the equivalent of a Chateau Plonk for the calibrated tongue. When a wine is ranked 100, it is not just a good wine; it is one of the very best in the world. And if you think about the tens of thousands of vineyards and the multiple varieties sold by each winery, it is incredible to think that a 100 rating is annually bestowed on a handful of bottles at most. In fact, a 100 wine is so rare that even to drink one is a very special occasion – perhaps one should wear a tuxedo or evening gown for the occasion.

Given their rarity, few hotel restaurants offer 100-rated bottles on their wine list. If they do, fewer places still have more than one or two, and in very limited quantity. On top of all that, with prices soaring into the high triple and quadruple (and quintuple!) figures, there are only a morsel of consumers willing to fork over the necessary cash for such an indulgence. In this sense, a restaurant’s 100-rated wines are not really for drinking, but instead a cachet to propel the wine list into the limelight.

Hence, while drinking 100-point wines is on my bucket list in perpetuity, I don’t actively seek them out on a regular basis as I’d be broke within a matter of weeks. Instead, I use the presence of said bottles as a barometer for the rest of the cellar. A respectable collection of 100-pointers indicates a commendable selection of everything else.

When you extrapolate this inductive reasoning, it’s easy to see how a well-curated wine list can serve as an alternative promotional vehicle for an establishment; be renowned for your cuisine as well as your wine. Moreover, when a restaurant (in a hotel to boot) has a vast store of 100-rated bottles, not just a handful, it greatly augments the wine’s marketing power to the point where the cellar becomes an attraction in its own right.

An excursion to Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, New Jersey, just outside of New York City and its Restaurant Latour (Wine Spectator Grand Award Winner 2014) provided a firsthand experience with one of the finest cellars on the continent. Here, wine is not just a computerized bin number (there are close to 135,000 bottles in stock), but a true passion. Here you will find over 200 different 100s and they are all for sale with more than one of each available. The cellar itself is built like a museum; a true cave à vin, it is designed to be visited.

I lucked out in that my own tour was directed by Robby Younes, the Vice President of Hospitality & Lodging as well as the hotel’s Wine Director (parallel positions). Robby holds a sommelier certification, as well as membership in Les Chevaliers du Grand Vin and a Masters of Wine certification. Charismatic to the core and effusive about all things food and wine, Robby knows the cellar blindfolded. On this basement level which is ostensibly far larger than my whole house, we meandered our way through tight, cold, stone-walled corridors, ambling between viewing windows for each of two dozen featured French Chateaus, Super Tuscans, rare Californians, Rioja gems and so much more. And when we finally sat down for a meal, the wine list was presented in the form of two inch-thick binders (one for red, one for white).

This isn’t not just wine appreciation on steroids, it’s oenophilia with an injection of Captain America’s supersoldier serum. And in rural New Jersey no less! The strategy here is that Crystal Springs Resort has clearly levered its world-class wine cellar as a prime differentiator. In its competitive market for meetings and groups business, the hotel’s wine list serves as a core asset to draw this segment and other corporate social events.

As Robby elaborated, the wine isn’t merely an adjunct to the restaurant, but at this level it acts as its own hotel amenity whereby guests can tour the cellar at their own convenience, independent of whether they are about to dine or not. With a valuation at over $25 million, the property’s cave à vin is virtually unforgettable, which plays a significant role in both repeat visits and positive word of mouth.

A wine cellar of this magnitude is yet another example of creating a point of differentiation in the marketplace. While reaching the echelon of Crystal Springs Resort in this regard may be a tad out of reach, there are still many opportunities on the wine front for you to excel. Be the best you can at local wines, one particular vineyard or even one specialty (for example, icewines). By getting involved and creating something exceptional, you will add to your property and your sales.

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This article may not be reproduced without the expressed permission of the author.

Editors note: If you enjoy Larry's articles please feel free to reach out to him directly.

Noble House Hotels & Resorts Promotes Brad Naucler to General Manager of Kona Kai Resort & Spa

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SEATTLE, Wash. – Noble House Hotels & Resorts, Ltd. (NHHR) – a collection of luxury hotels and resorts – proudly announces the promotion of Brad Naucler to General Manager of Kona Kai Resort & Spa, located at the tip of Shelter Island in San Diego. In this role, Naucler will provide leadership and will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the resort.  

“I am extremely excited to provide operational direction for Kona Kai Resort & Spa and honored with the opportunity to oversee the continued growth of this resort,” said Naucler. Naucler, who was formerly director of sales and marketing at Kona Kai Resort & Spa, has been with the Noble House family for more than 12 years. His history in the industry includes 25 years of resort operations and dedicated management experience.

Prior to joining the Kona Kai Resort & Spa team, Naucler served as director of sales at Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, where he was responsible for developing and executing marketing strategies, drive sales and create brand awareness. Throughout his years of experience, Naucler spent much of his career is a progression of sales and leadership positions including director of sales and marketing at Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa, where he managed 11 directors and managers in achieving $30 million in hotel revenue budget.

 “Naucler’s leadership and ambition, combined with his extensive hospitality knowledge and guest focused operations made him the perfect candidate for this position,” said Pat Colee, owner, founder and chairman of the board of Noble House Hotels & Resort. “Naucler will continue to ensure every guests has a positive experience with superior quality service.”

Kona Kai is a timeless San Diego Bay treasure, situated at the very tip of Shelter Island, offering captivating marina and bay views. Having recently completed a multi-million dollar refreshment, Kona Kai delights guests with an intimate SoCal experience in a fresh environment, inspiring the American spirit and revitalizing the soul. Classic and slightly whimsical in style, with alabaster walls, red tile roofs and archways, the warm and alluring atmosphere has, for decades, played host to dignitaries and film stars alike.

With a philosophy that emphasizes “location, distinction and soul,” Noble House Hotels & Resorts exemplifies individuality. With 18 distinct and visually captivating properties, Noble House dedicates itself to creating and managing exceptional properties that contribute to their communities, staying true to local history, culture and ambiance. For more information, call Noble House Hotels & Resorts at 877.NOBLE.TRIP or visit www.NobleHouseHotels.com

Andaz Wall Street Names Martin Nehring New Food & Beverage Manager

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NEW YORK (November 11, 2015)Andaz Wall Street, located in the heart of the Financial District, is pleased to welcome Martin Nehring as the new Food & Beverage Manager. Bringing almost a decade of diverse restaurant and hospitality experience, Nehring has spent most of his career working with Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Most recently, he served as the Banquet Manager at the Hyatt Regency Santa Clara where he oversaw a staff of 75 and was responsible for 66,000 square feet of meeting space, including a flexible ballroom in the Santa Clara Convention Center. During his time at the property, Nehring helped with creative ways to achieve results and maintain department engagement, improved the success of meetings and events held at the property and achieved Department of the Quarter status.

“I have a passion for all things food, wine and cocktails and I’m proud to be part of the fantastic team at Andaz Wall Street,” said Nehring. “The property has an excellent seasonal restaurant with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, an innovative cocktail menu and excellent banquet facilities. I look forward to implementing my creativity, expertise and results-driven mentality to further elevate the F&B program.”

Nehring’s interest in the food and hospitality industry can be traced to his California roots, during his first hospitality job as Restaurant and Inn Supervisor at The Davenport Roadhouse Restaurant & Inn, which he started during his Senior Year at University of California, Santa Cruz. After his experience at The Davenport Roadhouse, Nehring first joined the Hyatt team as the Assistant Manager of Hyatt Santa Barbara’s Bistro 1111, where he drew from his prior experiences to collaborate with the Executive Chef in implementing an amenity program featuring locally sourced food and beverage. He also spearheaded the Bistro 1111 wine program and implemented a new Lounge menu while increasing restaurant and IRD revenue. Nehring later transferred to Hyatt Regency Santa Clara as the Beverage Manager overseeing Evolution Bar.  Here he led the creation of an original Evolution Lobby bar menu dedicated to locally sourced beverages, and expanded the wine, craft beer and artisanal cocktail programs. In his new role at Andaz Wall Street, Nehring assists Executive Chef Chris Cummer with culinary operations at the hotel including the hotel’s seasonally inspired restaurant Dina Rata, in-room dining, and seasonal courtyard Beer Garden.

“Andaz Wall Street holds a strong commitment to excellence and quality,” says General Manager Rusty Middleton. “With his expertise and unique background in creating smart and on-trend food and beverage experiences for guests, Martin makes a seamless fit for our global yet local perspective at Andaz Wall Street.”

LeisureLink CEO Takes Center Stage at Phocuswright Travel Innovation Summit

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Phocuswright selects LeisureLink to present the company’s latest travel innovations that are shaping the future of the vacation rental industry

LeisureLink™, the industry leader in vacation rental distribution and technology,   announced today that CEO Julian Castelli has been selected among the top travel industry innovators to present its latest advancements at Phocuswright’s Travel Innovation Summit. The two-day summit showcases the next wave of transformation in travel technology and takes place in Hollywood, Florida.

LeisureLink has been at the front-line of vacation rental industry innovation since 2007 and has delivered over $1 billion in bookings to its property manager clients.  The Company connects its clients with the largest network of top distribution partners, collectively reaching 80 million monthly travelers.  Leisurelink serves over 1,000 property managers with over 200,000 commerce-enabled vacation rental units.

“This opportunity provides us with an unparalleled platform to demonstrate our innovation and share our vision with industry leaders,” explains Julian.  “Today’s vacation rental market is exciting and dynamic, but not without its complications – especially for property managers. As the distribution landscape continues to evolve in complexity, creating new challenges for property managers, we are crafting solutions and expanding partnerships that allow our clients to benefit from the growing global interest in vacation rentals.”

The Travel Innovation Summit has a long history of identifying companies that are transforming the landscape of the travel industry. An elite team of analysts carefully selects a handful of global innovators to demonstrate applications, technologies and solutions with the potential to shape the future of travel planning, purchasing, and sharing. At this year’s highly anticipated Phocuswright event, LeisureLink will reveal their most compelling new products including their mobile app and recent automated key-level connectivity to Airbnb, Booking.com, Villas.com, and VacationRoost.

Attendees of the upcoming conference are invited to schedule a meeting with the LeisureLink team by contacting sales@leisurelink.com. To learn why more vacation rental companies trust LeisureLink for online distribution, revenue management, booking engines, and reservation services to increase bookings, profits and efficiency, please visit http://content.leisurelink.com/demo-land-page  or call 1-855-840-2249.

Concord Hospitality Opens New Dual Branded Courtyard & Residence Inn in Orlando, Florida

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Orlando, Florida – November 11, 2015 – Marriott International, Inc. today announced that a combined 102-room Courtyard hotel and 102-suite Residence Inn hotel in Orlando, Florida will open today. Located at 6955 Lake Nona Boulevard, the hotels are owned by Tavistock Group-Lake Nona and managed by Concord Hospitality Enterprises of Raleigh, North Carolina. The seven-story property will share an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness center.

Located at the Lake Nona Town Center and six miles from Orlando International Airport, the hotels offer convenient access to Disneyworld, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Cape Canaveral and the Orlando Convention Center.

"Attracting both business travelers as well as tourists, the Orlando area is an ideal location for the dual opening," said Janis Milham, senior vice president, modern essentials and extended stay brands for Marriott International. "Each brand offers distinct amenities and services that tailor to all visitors."

About The Courtyard by Marriott

Courtyard constantly researches trends and evolves to meet the changing needs of its guests. The latest room design offers hybrid zones for working, sleeping, relaxing and getting ready. Indirect lighting and a neutral, tone-on-tone color palette makes for a soothing and calm environment.

The new room design is intuitive and thoughtful, offering flexible yet comfortable spaces that enable technology. Upon arrival, guests can store bags on the “Luggage Drop” and plug personal devices into the “Tech Drop” ledge for seamless technology integration.

Signature furniture and architectural elements replace traditional art in the new guestroom. The “LoungeAround” sofa offers a pop of color and a comfortable area for relaxing or for working.

The Courtyard also offers the Refreshing Business lobby environment, where guests can enjoy an open and bright area outside of their rooms. Along with media pods, complimentary Wi-Fi and a variety of seating zones, the redefined space is ideal for everything from pop-up meetings to social gatherings. The lobby also features The Bistro – Eat. Drink. Connect®, offering casual, flexible seating; easy access to food and high quality, healthy menu options for breakfast; and light evening fare, including snacks, cocktails, wine and beer so guests can unwind.

Throughout the hotel, guests can connect with ample electrical outlets. The business library features several computer terminals, along with a printer and separate computer stations dedicated solely to printing airline boarding passes and checking flight status.

The Courtyard Orlando Lake Nona will feature 17 Stay WellÒ rooms and offers 741 square feet of meeting space to accommodate meetings and functions of up to 100 people.

About The Residence Inn by Marriott

Residence Inn is an all-suite brand that offers studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites. Designed for stays of five nights or more, each suite also has a fully-equipped kitchen with a coffeemaker, microwave oven and residential-sized appliances. Guests looking for a revitalizing sleep experience will enjoy the hotel’s plush mattresses and crisp linens, while guests focused on being productive will value their suite’s large, well-lit work desk, ergonomic chair and complimentary high-speed Internet access.

The Residence Inn’s complimentary breakfast has a variety of great options, including specially made featured items. Guests can start their day off right with healthy food choices and, with a convenient to-go offering, can make sure they do not miss the most important meal of the day.

Extending the feeling of comfortable living on the road, the hotel offers guests inviting and functional public spaces to relax or collaborate. Road warriors and families alike enjoy the hotel’s grocery delivery service, complimentary Wi-Fi, 24-hour onsite food and beverage market, dry cleaning services, and onsite guest laundry room.

The Residence Inn Orlando Lake Nona will feature 17 Stay WellÒ rooms and offers 696 square feet of meeting space to accNina Herrera-Davila  ommodate meetings and functions of up to 70 people.

Courtyard by Marriott and Residence Inn participate in Marriott International's award-winning Marriott Rewards® frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay. For more information or reservations, contact the Courtyard Orlando Lake Nona directly at 407-856-9165, call the Courtyard toll-free number at 800-321-2211 or visit www.marriott.com/mcolc, for the Residence Inn Orlando Lake Nona call directly at 407-888-9974 or call the Residence Inn toll-free number at 800-331-3131 or visit www.marriott.com/mcoln

Kimpton Hotels Reveals First Glimpse of Seafire, Its New Grand Cayman Resort Opening in 2016

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Cayman Inspired Resort Represents First New Resort Development Along Famed Seven Mile Beach in 10 Years

(GRAND CAYMAN) – November 11, 2015 – Kimpton Hotels introduces Seafire Resort + Spa, Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman as it officially begins its one-year countdown to opening in November 2016. Seafire reflects Kimpton’s first new build venture in a dedicated resort market and will be the first property outside the continental U.S. within the brand’s current portfolio. It also holds the honor of being the first new development along Seven Mile Beach in more than a decade. 

Seafire represents Kimpton’s take on what a playful yet sophisticated island escape should be for today’s discerning leisure travelers and meeting/incentive groups seeking a balance between luxury and authenticity. The property will deliver the brand’s hallmark genuine service, inspired design, and an array of signature amenities and culinary offerings set against the striking backdrop of famed Seven Mile Beach.

Seafire, which first broke ground in 2012 and is now a year away from opening, recently celebrated the topping off of its main building, home to the resort’s 266 distinctively-appointed guest rooms and suites. These will include a penthouse Presidential Suite, 16 oceanfront suites, nine beachfront bungalows, 18 oceanview suites, 118 oceanview guest rooms, and eight uniquely configured family suites, along with an eclectic mix of features such as spa bathrooms, wide orientations to maximize ocean views, and convenient kitchenettes.

Signature elements of the resort include:

The Arrival
Upon arrival, a Ficus Aurora heritage tree and lush tropical landscaping provide a memorable welcome to guests. Once at the hotel, guests will be greeted with their first glimpse of the sea as seen through the open lobby building set far enough to provide a grand visual of the surrounding seascape.

The Lawn
A promenade that leads guests on a path to relaxation and enjoyment via special seating areas, “hidden spots,” a communal fire pit,1,300 square foot event lawn, and one of the resort’s two pools.  

The North End
Home to the resort’s main pool, beach and water sports access, the interconnected coastal biking and walking paths, and a retail and restaurant promenade located alongside a spectacular blue/green accent wall.

The property will also house 62 residential units with access to all Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa amenities, a private social rooftop, personalized concierge service and a beach view from every unit.

Noble House Appoints Frederic Bermond as Executive Chef to The Commons Hotel in Minneapolis

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SEATTLE, Wash. – Noble House Hotels & Resorts – a collection of luxury hotels and resorts – is pleased to announce the appointment of Frederic Bermond as Executive Chef to The Commons Hotel, located close to downtown Minneapolis on the University of Minnesota campus. Bermond’s focus in this position will be overseeing all culinary operations for the hotel and its signature gastropub restaurant, The Beacon Public House, which combines great mixology, good times and superior regional cooking in an industrial schoolhouse chic setting.

“We are thrilled to have Frederic join our team as Executive Chef, and could not think of anyone more suited to build on the success of our restaurant that embraces the farm-to-table concept,” says Duane Rohrbaugh, general manager at The Commons Hotel. “We are confident that his incredible passion for cuisine will further promote extraordinary dining experiences at our hotel through vibrant, high quality dishes.”

Bermond grew up in Marseille, France above a family-run bakery and started working for his father at the age of 12. He received his culinary arts degree from CFA Corrot and apprenticed at Gino’s Italian Restaurant in Marseille. After relocating to the United States in 1998, Bermond’s career tenure progressed at WA Frost with James Beard Award nominee and Charlie Award winner, Lenny Russo. Bermond continued his training at Hotel Sofitel as sous chef for the award-winning restaurants, Chez Colette and La Fougasse, and went on to work at multiple private country clubs in Minneapolis, including the Interlachen Country Club, Edina Country Club, and The Women’s Club of Minneapolis. Currently, he shares his lifelong passion for cooking as an instructor at the Kitchen Window, a second generation, award-winning gourmet housewares store in Minneapolis, featuring state-of-the-art cooking schools.

Bermond’s collective experience enhances the welcoming atmosphere of The Commons Hotel,embracing diverse people, cultures and communities who share a common desire to discover. Celebrating both the intellectual and the artist, the 304-room property gives nod to the geek-chic persona with playful experiences fancied around literary, art and science, from flights of local brew and alchemist mixology lessons at The Beacon Public House, to Sudoku Sleep-Ins and complimentary, in-room book deliveries from the resident Book Butler.

With a philosophy that emphasizes “location, distinction and soul,” Noble House Hotels & Resortsreflects the importance of individuality. Identifying each property for its culture and appeal, Noble House is unwavering in its dedication to create and manage unique, quality properties that reflect and make profound contributions to their communities, staying true to the local history, culture and ambiance that defines each region.

For more information about The Commons Hotel, call 1-800-822-6757 or visit www.commonshotel.com. The Commons Hotel is located at 615 Washington Avenue S.E., Minneapolis, Minn. 55414.


Hotel Equities to Manage Hampton Inn by Hilton in Panama City, Florida

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Atlanta, GA–November 12, 2015 – Atlanta-based Hotel Equities announced its selection as the management company for the Hampton Inn by Hilton in Panama City, Florida. Conveniently located near the Panama City Mall, the hotel is situated in the heart of the business district at 2338 Mercedes Avenue within minutes of some of the world’s most beautiful beaches in Panama City Beach, Florida. 

With this addition in Panama City, Hotel Equities expands its portfolio of over 10 hotels in the Florida panhandle.  

“Florida is an important state for us and we’ve been fortunate to achieve strong growth in the panhandle area with additional projects in the works,” said Joe Reardon, Sr. Vice President of Marketing and Business Development.   “Our firm’s operational expertise and knowledge of resort-destination location properties will ensure the success of this hotel with our guests.”

Take a short ride to Panama City Beach to admire the sugary white sands and emerald-green waters on this Gulf Coast paradise. Boating, water skiing, snorkeling and most water sports are available within minutes of our hotel in Panama City, Florida. Explore the surrounding wilderness with unique parks like Blountstown with the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement or the Pine Log Forest near Ebro.

“We are excited to implement our best-in-class sales and operations teams to provide optimal results for our ownership group,” said Mr. Reardon.  “Our award-winning guest service and management expertise will deliver a great value to the hotel.” 

Xenia Hotels & Resorts Reports Q3 2015 Net Income of $18.1 million Compared to $9.5 million in 2014

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Third Quarter 2015 Highlights

  • Same-Property RevPAR: Same-Property RevPAR, as adjusted by our operators for USALI, increased 4.6% from the third quarter of 2014 to $147.81, as occupancy remained essentially flat and ADR increased 4.6%.
  • Same-Property Hotel EBITDA Margin: Same-Property Hotel EBITDA margin was 31.8%, an increase of 60 basis points from the same period in 2014.
  • Adjusted EBITDA: Adjusted EBITDA grew $15.2 million to $74.9 million, an increase of 25.5% over the third quarter of 2014.
  • Adjusted FFO: Adjusted FFO available to common stockholders increased to $0.57 per diluted share compared to $0.39 per diluted share for the third quarter of 2014, representing an increase of 46.2%.
  • Acquisition Activity: In July, the Company acquired a three property portfolio consisting of the RiverPlace Hotel in Portland, Oregon, the Canary Hotel in Santa Barbara, California, and the Hotel Palomar in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for a purchase price of $245 million. In August, the Company announced it had entered into a purchase and sale agreement to acquire the Hotel Commonwealth in Boston, Massachusetts for $136 million upon completion of the hotel's current expansion project. This transaction is expected to be completed in early 2016.
  • Development Completion: The Company completed the development of the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina in August.
  • Dividends: The Company declared its third quarter dividend of $0.23 per share on September 17, 2015. The dividend was paid on October 15, 2015.

"Our third quarter results were strong, both from a revenue and bottom-line perspective," said Marcel Verbaas, President and Chief Executive Officer of Xenia Hotels & Resorts. "The strength of our diversified portfolio was evidenced by our RevPAR increase of 4.6%, despite the challenges the industry faced in August and September as a result of the shift in timing of certain holidays and the weakness in the Houston market that continues to impact our hotels there. With most of the RevPAR growth in our hotels resulting from ADR increases, we were able to offset fairly significant increases in real estate taxes at a number of our hotels and improve our hotel operating margin by 60 basis points this quarter."

Mr. Verbaas continued, "We maintain a positive outlook for the industry in general and our portfolio in particular. When excluding our Houston hotels we grew portfolio RevPAR by 5.9%. Given the particular third quarter challenges, we believe this result is a testament to both our commitment to our stated strategy, as well as the success of our asset management practices. We are also excited about the continued evolution of our portfolio. The addition of the three hotels we acquired in July and the completion of the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston are a further reflection of the execution of our strategic plan as we added four high quality lifestyle assets in excellent on-strategy locations."

Year to Date Results

For the nine months ended September 30, 2015, Same-Property RevPAR increased to $145.91, reflecting a 4.5% growth from the same period in 2014, driven by ADR growth of 5.3% and offset by a decrease in occupancy of 0.7%.  The Company's Same-Property Hotel EBITDA Margin was 32.2%, which improved 90 basis points compared to the same period in prior year. The Company's Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted FFO per diluted share increased 16.7% and 26.2%, respectively, during the first nine months of 2015 as compared to the same period in 2014.

Acquisitions and Developments

In the third quarter, the Company added four hotels to its operating portfolio and announced one additional hotel acquisition that is expected to close in early 2016.

In July 2015 the Company completed the acquisition of three high-quality lifestyle boutique hotels for a combined purchase price of $245 million.  The 84-room RiverPlace Hotel located in downtown Portland, the 97-room Canary Hotel located in downtown Santa Barbara, and the 230-room Hotel Palomar located in downtown Philadelphia, are all managed by Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants.  The three hotels are well-located in high barrier to entry markets with diverse demand generators.

Additionally, the Grand Bohemian Hotel Charleston, a 50-room Autograph Collection hotel located in Charleston, South Carolina in which the Company owns a 75% interest, opened in late August 2015.  The hotel is located in the heart of the historic district in Charleston, surrounded by local landmarks, shopping and dining. The total cost to develop the hotel was approximately $32 million.

Finally, in August 2015 the Company announced it had entered into a purchase agreement to acquire the Hotel Commonwealth in Boston for a purchase price of $136 million.  The hotel has an irreplaceable location between Fenway Park and Boston University in the Kenmore Square section of Boston.  The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions and the completion of the current hotel expansion, is expected to close in early 2016.  The hotel will continue to be managed by Sage Hospitality.

Capital Investments

The Company invested $9.7 million in capital expenditures during the third quarter after having completed several major renovation projects during the first half of the year. For the nine months ended September 30, 2015, the Company has invested $38.2 million in capital expenditures including a guest room renovation and bathroom conversion at the Marriott San Francisco Airport Waterfront, a guest room renovation at the Hyatt Regency Santa Clara and a pool deck renovation at the Aston Waikiki Beach Resort.  The Company anticipates total capital expenditures for 2015 of $45 to $50 million, excluding earthquake remediation repairs at the Andaz Napa.

Balance Sheet

As of September 30, 2015, the Company had total outstanding debt of $1.2 billion, including $117 million outstanding on its $400 million senior unsecured credit facility, and a weighted average interest rate of 3.73%.  Total net debt to trailing 12 month pro forma Corporate EBITDA (as defined in the Company's senior unsecured credit facility) was 4.0x as of September 30, 2015.  As of the end of the third quarter, the Company had $99 million of cash and cash equivalents.

Subsequent Events

Portfolio Updates

In October 2015, the Company announced the sale of the 656-room Hyatt Regency Orange County in Garden Grove, California, for a price of $137 million.  The sale price represented an 11.8x multiple on the hotel's 2015 forecasted EBITDA and a 7.1% capitalization rate on 2015 forecasted NOI. In addition to the purchase price, the Company retained the approximate $5.9 million balance in the hotel's capital expenditure reserve account.

The Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook, a 100-room Autograph Collection hotel located in an upscale suburb of Birmingham, Alabama, in which the Company owns a 75% interest, opened in late October 2015.  The total cost to develop the hotel is expected to be approximately $45 million.

Also in October 2015, the Company transitioned the management of the Courtyard Pittsburgh Downtown, Hilton Garden Inn Evanston, Courtyard Kansas City Country Club Plaza and Homewood Suites Houston Galleria to Sage Hospitality, which now manages six hotels for the Company.

"The portfolio initiatives we were able to complete in the early part of the fourth quarter were particularly meaningful." said Mr. Verbaas. "We are excited about the completion of the Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook, our fifth hotel in Marriott's Autograph Collection, and also our fifth hotel managed by The Kessler Collection. Furthermore, as a result of the management transition at four of our urban upscale hotels that we initiated, Sage will be operating seven of our hotels upon completion of the Hotel Commonwealth transaction. We are looking forward to reaping the benefits from the continued strengthening of our relationship with Sage."

Mr. Verbaas added, "The sale of our Hyatt Regency in Garden Grove was the result of a well-executed strategic decision. Based on the characteristics of the hotel and the market, we felt the time was right to explore a sale for this legacy hotel. Given the experience of our management team with these type of transactions, both as a seller and a buyer over many years, we were able to complete this disposition smoothly and expeditiously at an attractive sale price. The sale of this asset allowed us to reduce debt and create further balance sheet flexibility to continue to execute on our strategy of owning a portfolio of high-quality hotels primarily in top 25 markets and key leisure destinations."

Capital Markets

On October 22, the Company closed on two new senior unsecured term loans, a $175 million unsecured term loan maturing in February 2021 and a $125 million unsecured term loan maturing in October 2022. The $175 million term loan bears an interest rate based on a pricing grid with a range of 145 to 225 basis points plus LIBOR, determined by the Company's leverage ratio. Based on the Company's pro forma leverage ratio, the current effective interest rate is LIBOR plus 160 basis points.  In conjunction with the term loan, the Company executed interest rate swaps to fix LIBOR over the period of the loan at 1.29%.  As a result the current annual interest rate on the term loan is 2.89%.

The $125 million term loan bears an interest rate based on a pricing grid with a range of 170 to 255 basis points plus LIBOR, determined by the Company's leverage ratio. Based on the Company's pro forma leverage ratio, the current effective interest rate is LIBOR plus 190 basis points. Funding of the term loan is expected to occur in early 2016 in connection with the anticipated closing of the Company's previously announced Hotel Commonwealth acquisition.

Additionally the Company completed a refinancing of the $30 million, 5.50% fixed rate mortgage on the Residence Inn Cambridge subsequent to quarter end with the existing lender.  The new $63 million mortgage has a ten year term at a fixed annual interest rate of 4.48%.

With the proceeds from the $175 million term loan, excess proceeds from the refinancing of the Residence Inn Cambridge and net sale proceeds from the Hyatt Regency Orange County, the Company was able to pay down the outstanding balance on its revolving line of credit, as well as unencumber four hotels including the Marriott San Francisco Airport Waterfront, the Marriott Woodlands Waterway Hotel & Convention Center, the Hilton Garden Inn Evanston, and the Hampton Inn & Suites Denver Downtown.

Pro forma for the refinancings subsequent to quarter end, the Company has total debt outstanding of $1.1 billion with no outstanding balance on its revolving line of credit and a weighted average interest rate of 3.57%.

"We are pleased with the progress we have made to proactively address our 2016 and 2017 maturities and extend our maturity profile, while maintaining full capacity on our $400 million unsecured credit facility," commented Andy Welch, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Xenia Hotels & Resorts.  "The completion of these financings allows us to further stagger and increase the weighted average tenor of our debt maturities, unencumber four additional hotels, and lower our weighted average interest rate."

To view full results and corresponding tables associated with this release please visit:

http://investors.xeniareit.com/CorporateProfile.aspx?iid=4552942

Marcus Hotels Appoints Key Leadership Positions in Minneapolis, Chicago, Milwaukee and Las Vegas

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MILWAUKEE--November 12, 2015-- Marcus® Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized hotel management company and division of The Marcus Corporation (NYSE: MCS), today announced leadership appointments in Minneapolis, Chicago, Milwaukee and Las Vegas.

Jim Waldvogel has been named managing director for the Hilton Minneapolis/Bloomington hotel and Crowne Plaza Minneapolis Northstar Downtown. Waldvogel previously served as area vice president and general manager of the Hilton Milwaukee City Center. Waldvogel joined Marcus Hotels & Resorts in 1997 as general manager of the Crowne Plaza Northstar Downtown and served as general manager of the Hilton Minneapolis/Bloomington from 2007 to 2014.

Chris Zarek has been appointed general manager of the AC Hotel Chicago Downtown. Prior to this position, he served as general manager of the Hilton Minneapolis/Bloomington hotel. Zarek joined Marcus Hotels & Resorts in 2008 as human resources director at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center. He has held several leadership roles within the company, including regional HR director for Milwaukee, director of food and beverage at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center and director of operations at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City, Okla.

Mahesh Reddy has been appointed general manager of the Hilton Milwaukee City Center. Reddy previously served as general manager of the Platinum Hotel & Spa in Las Vegas, Nev. He joined Marcus Hotels & Resorts in 2000 where he held leadership roles at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center for six years. In 2012, he was named general manager of the Westin Columbus and appointed general manager of the Platinum Hotel & Spa in 2013.

Mary Orlando has been named general manager of the Platinum Hotel & Spa in Las Vegas, Nev. Previously she served as general manager of the AC Hotel Chicago Downtown and oversaw the transformation and rebranding of the property, Marriott’s newest lifestyle brand which opened in June, 2015. Orlando joined Marcus Hotels & Resorts in 2004 as general manager of Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark in Lake Geneva, Wis. and served as general manager of the company’s Chicago property from 2008 to 2015.

“This is an exciting time for Marcus Hotels & Resorts and we are confident these leaders will make significant contributions to the company, their hotels and the communities in which they serve,” said Joseph Khairallah, chief operating officer for Marcus Hotels & Resorts.

For more information on the latest news and updates from Marcus Hotels & Resorts, please visit: http://media.marcushotels.com.

B&T Hospitality Opens New Hyatt Place Hotel in Lehi, Utah

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CHICAGO--November 12, 2015--Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Lehi, the first Hyatt Place hotel in Lehi, Utah, officially opens in the picturesque foothills of Traverse Mountain. The hotel joins three other Hyatt Place hotels in the Salt Lake City area and brings the brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere, and practical amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and 24-hour food offerings, to business and leisure travelers visiting Lehi. 

Located in the “Silicon Valley” of Utah, Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Lehi is nearby global companies such as Adobe Systems and Microsoft and within walking distance of shopping destinations that include the Outlets at Traverse Mountain and Cabela’s, an international sporting goods store. Additionally, Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Lehi is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, situated in close proximity to renowned attractions such as Thanksgiving Point, Traverse Mountain, Utah Lake, Wasatch Front, and Mt. Timpanogos Cave. Guests can also enjoy easy access to historic downtown Lehi, Thanksgiving Point Golf Course, area museums, and a movie theater.

“As Lehi continues to grow and welcome many new global technology organizations, we are excited to add to the momentum by welcoming Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Lehi,” said General Manager Rich Shelley. “With our smartly designed social spaces and guestrooms with separate areas to work and sleep, Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Lehi offers multitasking travelers the room they need to spread out, and our free hot breakfast is just the thing to get our guests going in the morning.”

Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Lehi offers:

  • 131 spacious guestrooms with separate spaces to sleep, work and play, as well as a Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper
  • Free Wi-Fi everywhere
  • 24/7 Gallery Menu with freshly prepared meals at any time of day
  • a.m. Kitchen Skillet™, a free hot breakfast for guests available daily in the Gallery Kitchen, features signature breakfast sandwiches, fresh fruit, oatmeal, yogurt, cereal, fresh-baked pastries, and more
  • 24/7 Gallery Menu & Market serving freshly prepared meals anytime, day or night and perfectly packaged sandwiches and salads
  • Coffee to Cocktails Bar featuring specialty coffees and premium beers, as well as wines and cocktails
  • Odds & Ends program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for free
  • Meetings Spaces offer more than 2,600 square feet of flexible, high-tech meeting/function space
  • 24-hour StayFit Gym featuring cardio equipment with LDC touchscreens and free ear buds

 

“We are excited to add a Hyatt Place hotel to the bustling Lehi area. Whether travelers are coming to visit Adobe, IM Flash Technologies or Microsoft, shop at the amazing outlet mall or hit the trails at Mt. Timpanogos, we feel that the thoughtful service we provide will create a memorable and seamless experience for our guests,” said Angie Mago, Regional Director of Sales, B&T Hospitality.

HYATT PLACE SALT LAKE CITY/LEHI LEADERSHIP

Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Lehi is under the leadership of General Manager Rich Shelley and Senior Sales Manager, Cindy Wilson. In his role, Shelley is directly responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the hotel, including overseeing the hotel’s 50 associates and ensuring guests encounter the thoughtful service for which Hyatt Place is known. Wilson is responsible for providing sales service and support to travelers and meeting planners frequenting the Lehi area. 

Developed and Owned by TMI Hospitality, New Homewood Suites by Hilton Opens in Kalamazoo, Michigan

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PORTAGE, Mich. and MCLEAN, Va. - Homewood Suites by HiltonHilton Worldwide's (NYSE: HLT) international brand of upscale, all-suite, extended-stay hotels, announced today its newest property, Homewood Suites by Hilton Kalamazoo/Portage.

"Travelers can feel at ease with our centrally located extended-stay option at The Trade Centre, which is located steps from offices such as Stryker and Plante Moran and accessible from I-94 between Chicago and Detroit," said Robert Schmidt, general manager. "Homewood Suites by Hilton offers the comforts of home with value-added amenities that help guests stay productive for work and relax while traveling for leisure."

Developed and owned by TMI Hospitality, Homewood Suites Kalamazoo/Portage adds to the brand's growing portfolio of hotels throughout Michigan offering travelers an upscale, extended-stay hotel option. The new hotel will feature 97 suites which will be a combination of studio, one and two bedroom suites.

Located at 500 Trade Centre Way, near the intersection of Westnedge Avenue and I-94, Homewood Suites Kalamazoo/Portage is steps from popular shops and restaurants, and close to nearby attractions such as the Air Zoo, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and Gilmore Car Museum.

The new hotel offers guests inviting, generous all suite-accommodations including fully equipped kitchens, free daily full-hot breakfast and Wi-Fi. Additional essentials include a complimentary evening social Monday-Thursday and grocery shopping service*. Homewood Suites by Hilton also offers recreational options such as a fitness center, sports court and indoor pool, enabling travelers to "stay in the groove."

Homewood Suites by Hilton Kalamazoo/Portage participates in Hilton HHonors®, the only hotel loyalty program that allows members to earn Points & Miles® on the same stay and No Blackout Dates on reward stays. HHonors members always get our lowest price with our Best Price Guarantee, along with HHonors Points, digital check-in and no booking fees only when they book directly through Hilton. For more information or to make a reservation, visit the Homewood Suites by Hilton Kalamazoo/Portage website or call +1 269 382 5817.

Read more about Homewood Suites by Hilton at www.homewoodsuites.com and news.homewoodsuites.com

*Guest pays for groceries. Other restrictions apply.

New 129-Room Holiday Inn Express Hotel Opens in Cold Lake, Alberta Led by General Manager Jun Li

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TORONTO  – InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, today announces the opening of the new 129-room Holiday Inn Express® and Suites Cold Lake hotel in Alberta (Canada). This is the first Holiday Inn Express hotel in the city and is less than 10 minutes from the heart of downtown Cold Lake. Located near 4 Wing Cold Lake Royal Canadian Air Force Base, Imperial Oil and the Cold Lake Provincial Park, this hotel is expected to become a top choice for military, business and leisure travellers in the Cold Lake area.

Jennifer Gribble,  Vice President, Holiday Inn Express® Brand, IHG said:  "Holiday Inn Express hotels offer guests a great night’s rest and everything they need to stay productive on the go, and this hotel is the smart choice for people travelling to Cold Lake. We are proud to welcome the Holiday Inn Express Cold Lake hotel to our portfolio.”

The Holiday Inn Express brand is the smart choice for travellers seeking a hotel that will help them rest and go while staying productive, delivering exactly what they need and nothing they don’t. The more than 2,400 Holiday Inn Express hotels worldwide offer a simple and efficient stay through the uncomplicated yet personal service travellers expect from the brand.

The hotel features an indoor pool, hot tub, a 24-hour fitness center, a 24-hour business center and meeting space accommodating up to 50 people. Guest rooms feature contemporary styling, comfortable queen, king-sized or two double beds, a sitting area with a lounge chair and an in-room coffee machine featuring complimentary Smart Roast™ 100% Arabica coffee.

The complimentary Express Start™ breakfast bar offers a full range of breakfast items and now features an expanded selection of healthy breakfast items, including Oikos® yogurt, whole wheat English muffins, Kellogg’s® breakfast cereals, new Quaker® oatmeal flavors in cups and a toppings bar for yogurt, cereal and pancakes. Additionally, the breakfast bar continues to offer a wide variety of options including a rotation of egg and meat selections, biscuits, fruit, the brand's proprietary cinnamon roll and Smart Roast coffee.

Jun Li, General Manager, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Cold Lake said: “We are pleased to be the first Holiday Inn Express hotel in Cold Lake. With our convenient location to a major military base and the Cold Lake Regional Airport, we look forward to welcoming a wide range of travellers with unmatched comfort and convenience at a great value.”

The hotel, located at 5315-48 Avenue, is owned and managed by 1756380 Alberta Ltd. The Holiday Inn Express brand is part of IHG’s diverse family of brands in nearly 100 countries and territories. The scale and diversity of the IHG family of brands means that its hotels can meet guests’ needs whatever the occasion – whether an overnight getaway, a business trip, a family celebration or a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-HOLIDAY or by going to IHG.com/HolidayInnExpress. The Holiday Inn Express brand participates in IHG® Rewards Club. The industry’s first and largest hotel rewards program is free, and guests can enroll at IHGRewardsClub.com, by downloading the IHG® App, by calling 1-888-211-9874 or by inquiring at the front desk of any of IHG’s more than 4,900 hotels worldwide.  The hotel also participates in IHG Green Engage® and offers unique programs to ensure sustainability. 

Kimpton’s Vero Beach Hotel and Spa Appoints Lee Hunter as Director of Sales

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Vero Beach, Fla. - November 12, 2015- Vero Beach Hotel & Spa announced the appointment of Lee Hunter as Director of Sales.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lee to the Vero Beach Hotel & Spa family,” said Eric Jellson, Area Director of Marketing & Strategy for Kimpton Hotels of Florida & Cayman Islands. “He brings with him a tremendous amount of talent and industry acumen, and will bring a fresh perspective to contribute innovative, revenue-generating ideas that will bring Vero Beach Hotel & Spa to the next level.”

As a graduate of Virginia Tech, Hunter began his career as a Cluster Sales Manager in the Tampa Bay area with Marriott International, with his territory region spanning South Florida to Detroit. His marketing and sales experience has taken him nationwide since, and prior to assuming this new role, he was most recently the Global Director of Sales with Commune Hotels & Resorts. As Global Director of Sales, he operated as a representative at trade shows, created client events and worked with in-need properties to raise results.

As an award winning AAA four-diamond property, Vero Beach Hotel & Spa, a Kimpton Hotel, is the perfect destination for anyone who is looking for casual sophistication and tranquility, along with breathtaking, panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. During their stay, guests can choose to lounge in one of the 113 West-Indies-Style  guest rooms and suites, or enjoy all that the property has to offer including: a private beach; heated ocean view pool and cabanas; complimentary evening wine hour; golf privileges at private clubs; the full-service onsite White Orchid spa; and more.


HFTP CEO, Frank Wolfe, CAE Discusses Global Hospitality Technology Trends at CHTA Global Conference

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AUSTIN, TEXAS (November 12, 2015) — This week Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) CEO Frank Wolfe addressed more than 125 CEO/CIO/COO from global hotel groups at the 2015 CHTA Global Conference, November  11 – 13 in Macau. Wolfe shared his expertise on global hospitality technology trends. As a member of the advisory council for HFTP’s Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC), the world’s largest hospitality technology event, Wolfe is in tune with the most current hot topics in the industry. Joining Wolfe, was Sunny Wang, executive director of the HFTP Asia Research Center.

“It was a great honor to speak to this international group of hotel executives,” said Wolfe. “The broad audience brought a variety of perspectives that highlighted the differences and similarities that come with doing business in regions across the globe.”

As the spokesperson for HFTP, Wolfe frequently speaks on hospitality finance, technology, social media and travel issues to varied audiences and has presented in more than 20 countries. He is also a regular columnist for Hotel Management magazine. In June 2011, he was inducted into the HFTP International Hospitality Technology Hall of Fame.

Recently, HFTP announced an extended partnership with CHTA for the purpose of furthering each association’s resources used to educate and certify hospitality technology professionals. The partnership between HFTP and CHTA is the latest step in HFTP’s long-term plan to fully expand across the globe. Participation in the CHTA Global Conference is part of this new alliance. HFTP is also a co-sponsor of the event. 

“HFTP is grateful to partner with an amazing association such as CHTA,” explains HFTP CEO, Frank Wolfe, CAE. “By working together, both associations will be able to fully realize the goals we have set before ourselves. It is HFTP’s hope that CHTA members will take full advantage of the many resources, education and certification opportunities, and research that HFTP has to offer.”

Perhaps the most exciting element of the partnership, CHTA will jointly develop an additional localized hospitality technology certificate that would be a precursor to the Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) certification offered by HFTP. To date, the CHTP program has certified numerous individuals dedicated to the advancement of both hospitality and technology.

"CHTA has been fully supported by the hospitality industry here in China and across the Asia-Pacific region as the only place to go for technology trends and innovative solutions for the future of the hospitality technology industry," said Jing Zhu, CHTA chair and CEO. "The partnership between CHTA and HFTP will help both of our organizations develop new education and market research opportunities that will transform all previous advancements."

For more information on HFTP membership or offerings, please contact Bryan Wood, director of membership development and services, at Bryan.Wood@hftp.org. For more information on CHTA, please contact Julia Gong at Julia.Gong@chta.com.cn.

Aqua-Aston Hospitality Names Janice Wakatsuki Senior Vice President of Human Resources

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HONOLULU – (November 12, 2015) – Aqua-Aston Hospitality, a leading hotel and resort management group, has named Janice Wakatsuki senior vice president of human resources.  She brings more than 30 years of experience to the position.

In her new role, Wakatsuki provides human resources leadership and strategy and is responsible for overseeing the administration employee and labor relations, compensation, benefits, and recruitment for the corporate office and the properties that Aqua-Aston Hospitality manages in Hawaii and the Mainland U.S.

“In addition to her expertise in human resources, Janice has an impressive background in the travel and hospitality industry. We are very pleased to have someone of her caliber join our organization.” said Matt Bailey, president and chief operating officer, Aqua-Aston Hospitality.  

Prior to joining Aqua-Aston Hospitality, Wakatsuki served as the corporate director of human resources for Outrigger Enterprises where she was responsible for the overall management of HR for the corporate office and 24 properties in Hawaii. She also held senior-level positions with Hawaii Health Systems and the Hyatt Regency in Honolulu. Wakatsuki received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Travel Industry Management from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

For more information about Aqua-Aston Hospitality, please visit: http://www.aqua-aston.com/

Massport Issues RFQ for the Summer Street Development Project in the Seaport District of Boston, MA

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Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) seeks to qualify developers with exceptional experience and capability to develop a signature mixed-use commercial development project on a Massport-owned parcel in the South Boston Waterfront District. The Summer Street Development Project, located on Summer Street in Boston’s vibrant Seaport District, must include a hotel of 250 rooms or more, street‐level retail opportunities, and a mixed-use development program which fully maximizes the development potential of the site at an appropriate development density. In addition to the required hotel, Massport seeks other complementary, non-hotel uses such as office, residential, retail or entertainment uses to enhance the financial viability and urban dynamism of the proposed project. Massport invites development firms with experience in the developing, financing, and owning of mixed-use projects of similar scope to the Summer Street Development Project to submit a proposal outlining their qualifications in response to this RFQ. Massport has established the inclusion of M/WBEs in all aspects of the Summer Street Development Project as a significant priority. Massport seeks to establish a shortlist of qualified developers that will be invited to respond to a soon to be issued RFP.

Massport has placed an emphasis on an expedited and efficient RFQ and RFP process and anticipated that the construction of the Sumer Street Development Project will commence in 2018.  As part of the RFQ process, firms shall provide a written response outlining their qualifications, knowledge, and experience in developing, financing, owning projects of similar scope. RFQ responses are due no later than twelve o'clock noon (12:00 PM) eastern time on December 21 2015.

To download the RFQ for the Summer Street Development Project, please visit:

http://www.massport.com/business-with-massport/goods-and-serivces/rfps/

Winners Named for the 2015 European Hospitality Awards

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13th November 2015, London, UK - On the 12th November we celebrated the 6th edition of the European Hospitality Awards at the Royal Garden Hotel. We have highlighted and rewarded quality, expertise, innovation and class during this show. The night brought together some of the most iconic hotels and hoteliers from Europe. Our head judge, Derek Wood, took the stage and announced the winners from our outstanding shortlist and awarded this year's top prizes.

It was an extremely tough decision that our judges had to make when selecting this year’s winners but we are delighted reveal the full list of our 2015 winners from each category.

Winners of 2015 European Hospitality Awards

Green Hotel of the year
Amathus Beach Hotel

Opening of the year (New Build)
Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard

Opening of the Year (Renovation or Conversion)
The Red Carnation Hotel Collection - The Ashford Castle

This category has a special commendation award - Awarded by the judges
Four Seasons Buenos Aires

Best Boutique Hotel
Grace Santorini

Best Hotel Suite
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts - Garden House Suite

Best use of Technology
Hotel NH Collection Madrid Eurobuilding

Hotelier of the year
Ian Edwards - The Celtic Manor Resort

Hotel Spa of the year
Le Bristol Paris - Spa Le Bristol by La Prairie

Innovation in Service of the year
The Kensington Hotel

Best Hotel Restaurant
The Chester Grosvenor - Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor

Best Hotel Bar
25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin - Monkey bar

 

This year's Overall Winner of the year
The Kensington Hotel

 

We would like to congratulate the shortlisted nominees and thank all participants for their submissions. We hope you enjoyed a fabulous evening that highlighted the esteem of the European Hospitality Awards. The pictures from the EHA will be on our website from next week, please check: www.arena-international.com/eha for the last updates.

The European Hospitality Awards likes to thank our judges: Ted Teng, Hans Koch, Jane Sunley, Rolf Schmidt, Ann Corrigan, Mark Wynne Smith, Michael Levie, Emmanuel Clave, Barry Thomas, Mark Bruce and Derek Wood. We also want to highlight the great collaboration with sponsors: Erdinger, Geo Spa, AEI Communications, Tink Labs, Ecolab, Kuehne + Nagel, Robert Welch, Quadriga, Simon Jersey, Exclusive Cakes 4 U, Waterworks and Dornbracht.

For further information on the European Hospitality Awards, please contact Keley van der Velde 0207 936 6656 or email keley.vandervelde@arena-international.com

Interstate Hotels & Resorts Adds The London NYC Boutique/Lifestyle Hotel to its Portfolio

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ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 13, 2015 – With consumer demand for independent boutique hotels increasing*, many boutique and independent hoteliers look toward Interstate Hotels & Resorts – the leading U.S.-based global hotel management company – as their management partner. With an independent boutique portfolio of nearly 50 hotels, Interstate translates global knowledge from its expansive, diverse portfolio into local enhancements, from service intuition to marketing and F&B. Over the past several years, Interstate has become the most prolific boutique/independent operator around the globe.

“Interstate offers a strong and capable team for operating independent and boutique hotels worldwide,” said Jim Abrahamson, Interstate’s chief executive officer. “Our expertise spans three continents, operating all asset classes and segments from large convention hotels to independents. Owners of independent hotels have the confidence in Interstate to bring their vision to life while driving optimal returns on their investment.

Interstate’s independent portfolio has recently grown, including prestigious additions such as NoMo SoHo and The Renwick hotels in Manhattan, N.Y.; Heathman Kirkland Hotel, Wash.; Hotel Angeleno, Hotel Erwin and La Casa Del Camino hotels in Calif.; and The Whitney Hotel in New Orleans, La.

In addition, Interstate Hotels & Resorts is now operating the 562-suite The London NYC, rising 54 stories in the heart of midtown Manhattan, with spectacular views of Central Park. The all-suite luxury boutique hotel offers exceptional accommodations and an incomparable Manhattan experience.

Owners of independent and boutique hotels benefit from Interstate’s localized depth of talent in this segment, backed by operational specialization and institutional-grade systems, and as a result, no other hotel management company offers a comparable level of global diversity on a consistent basis. Interstate’s expertise, innovative thinking and execution in operating independent hotels includes employing the best talent, finding solutions and delivering experiences to increase guests’ intent to return.

“Translating our global knowledge from our expansive, diverse portfolio, Interstate continuously improves to be the best in the business and the management company of choice for owners,” said Leslie Ng, chief investment officer of Interstate. “Interstate’s depth of expertise spans all industry segments, including full-service, select-service, and extended stay under all independent and major hotel brands worldwide. Owners are quickly recognizing Interstate’s unique ability to enhance the operating performance and value of their independent hotels. It is certainly becoming a growing specialty of our company.”

Interstate also continues on its rapid pace of growth. As of October 2015, Interstate has added 77 hotels this year to its managed portfolio. Highlights include the Hilton San Diego Del Mar, Calif.; Four Points by Sheraton Nashville Airport, Tenn.; Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago, Ill.; Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Cruise Post, Fla.; Hotel Indigo Ashville Downtown, N.C.; Holiday Inn London Gatwick Airport, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Spa, and Hilton at the Ageas Bowl Southampton, U.K.; Ibis Dublin, Ireland; Holiday Inn Express Ghent, Belgium; and Courtyard and Residence Inn hotels in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Known as the global leader in the hotel management industry, Interstate manages 440 hotels in every asset class. The Company’s comprehensive services are built on large-scale company resources, delivered with the personalized and focused attention of a small company. Including an owner-aligned organizational structure, experienced corporate support and expansive industry and global knowledge, Interstate uses the experience culminated over 55 years to contribute to each owner’s success.

For more information about Interstate Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.interstatehotels.com. 

*According to the Boutique & Lifestyle Lodging Association.

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