Somerset, KY – January 24, 2017 – Courtyard by Marriott Somerset is scheduled to open its doors in Somerset, Kentucky today. Featuring an innovative lobby space as well as Courtyard’s latest contemporary room design, the new hotel provides flexibility and choices that allow guests to optimize and elevate their travel experience. 

Located at 2254 South Highway 27, the 104-room hotel will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned and managed by LinGate Hospitality of Owensboro, Kentucky. Adjacent to the Center for Rural Development Convention and Events Center, the Courtyard Somerset offers guests convenient access to Lake Cumberland State Park, Wolfe Creek Dam and National Fish Hatchery, and General Burnside Island State Park.

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.

“From day one, Courtyard has prided itself as a brand that listens to business travelers,” said Callette Nielsen, vice president and global brand manager, Courtyard. “Today’s technology has changed how people travel. Our guests want a room that has purpose and flexibility that enables a seamless transition between relaxing and working. Courtyard is designed to offer them a relaxing and functional space to work the way they want to, when they want to.”

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 new design also features a light desk on wheels, allowing guests to work from anywhere in the room.

An upgraded, more spacious layout creates an enhanced bathroom experience. A “Shower Nook” housing shampoos and towels, makes amenities accessible without having to leave the shower.

The Courtyard Somerset 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.

Green has been Courtyard’s signature color since Marriott launched the brand 30 years ago. Now it is even greener with the introduction of a guest recycling program for the environment. Receptacles for paper, glass, plastic and metal are conveniently located by side exits.

The four-story hotel features an indoor swimming pool, fitness center and guest laundry, and offers 1,010 square feet of meeting space to accommodate functions of up to 40 people.

NEW YORK (January 24, 2017) – Real-estate mogul Morris Moinian's Fortuna Realty Group (FRG) is assembling a powerhouse team for the upcoming launches of two new hotels in Manhattan. Bolstered by the success of Hotel Hugo in SoHo, the company has its sights set on Chelsea and is finalizing the boutique conversions of two existing properties into Hotel Hayden, opening February 1, 2017 and Hotel Henri, opening March 5, 2017.

The first lifestyle-driven, boutique properties to open on these northern Chelsea blocks, Hotel Hayden and Hotel Henri are addressing the needs of local creative, fashion, and tech agencies that, until now, were competing for space in crowded boutique hotels in the NoMad area. Fortuna also has ambitious plans to expand its footprint in Manhattan with a number of future hotel developments in the pipeline.

“When we opened Hotel Hugo, we wanted to create an approachable, but luxurious, design-focused retreat for the artists and creative types that were starting to flock to the surrounding Hudson Square area,” said Morris Moinian, principal and founder of Fortuna Realty Group. “With Hotel Hayden and Hotel Henri, we’re looking to replicate that same aesthetic and vibe to bring a new lifestyle element to the Chelsea neighborhood.”

Joining the team as Vice President of Operations is Grady Colin, who oversees operations for Fortuna’s current and upcoming hospitality portfolio. Colin also serves as General Manager of Fortuna’s iconic asset, The Garden City Hotel on Long Island, where he led the hotel through a complete $30 million renovation that re-established the famed property as the preeminent luxury hotel in the region. Prior to Fortuna, Colin gained a deep knowledge of the hospitality industry through managerial positions at several notable NYC hotels including Executive Director of Food and Beverage at the legendary Waldorf Astoria and Executive Assistant Manager at The Hilton New York, among others.

Fortuna has also tapped Lisa Grossberg as Chelsea Area General Manager for Hotels Hayden and Henri. Lisa brings over 20 years of New York-area hospitality experience to her new role, with past positions including Area General Manger for Denihan Hospitality Group and General Manager of the Buckingham Hotel. Lisa’s track record of success in driving revenue, guest retention and overall profitability, as well as her proven leadership in expertly managing change make her an ideal candidate to oversee Hotel Hayden and Hotel Henri.

“Having worked with Fortuna Realty Group over the past five years, I’m excited to expand my role to ensure the success of all of the company’s hotels, especially the newest properties being added to the portfolio,” said Mr. Colin. “And with Lisa Grossberg chosen as General Manager, I know Hotel Hayden and Hotel Henri are in great hands.”

“I’ve been brought up working in the New York City hotel market and it’s always such a thrill to be a part of a new hotel project” said Lisa Grossberg. “As I watch the renovations of Hayden and Henri coming together, I’m confident that guests are going to love these sister properties that offer access to all of the action in the Chelsea, Flatiron, and NoMad neighborhoods.”                                                                                                                

Upon completion, Hotel Hayden on 28^th Street and 6^th Avenue, will bring a much-needed boutique offering to this Chelsea block. The hotel pays tribute to Manhattan’s iconic Flower District through living walls installed within the restaurant, lining the building’s exterior, and surrounding the reception desk in the bright, Carrera marble-clad lobby. Other highlights include a rooftop lounge, Hayden’s Rooftop, with impressive views of the Freedom Tower and a signature cocktail menu, unique meeting spaces and an upscale Greek restaurant, Mykonos Blue, an extension of the Ethos restaurant empire, featuring traditional dishes such as Moussakas and Brizolas, over 80 Greek wines, and spirits with a modern twist.

Hotel Hayden’s sister property, Hotel Henri on W. 24^th Street, currently closed for renovations and reopening in March, will feature guest rooms complete with Italian-designed wood paneling and graffiti-inspired artwork, as well as a reimagined penthouse space launching in May that will offer a range of programming that transitions from daytime to nightime (to be announced). Hotel Henri is home to a new restaurant that opened Fall 2016: Shay & Ivy. As the second culinary establishment by Dan Rieger and Evan Rosenberg (the duo that opened Atwood Kitchen & Bar Room), Shay & Ivy features local, primarily organic dishes and imaginative cocktails made with infused liquors, and is a recent favorite of hip-hop legend Ja Rule.

For more information, please visit www.fortunarealtygroup.com. 

Albuquerque, NM – Albuquerque-based Peak Hospitality (Peak) today announced it has big plans for the soon-to-be-renamed Hotel Cascada. Peak is managing an aggressive construction plan that includes a $5 million renovation of the property and a new franchise flag, Wyndham Hotel & Conference Center, by summer of 2017.

The renovation of the property, located at 2500 Carlisle Blvd. NE, will include a redesigned lobby, multiple upgrades to meeting and guest rooms, and a new state-of-the-art 1,100-square-foot fitness center, new exterior paint, new exterior landscape, addition of on-site vendors and other upgrades unique to the popular Wyndham brand. Based on completion of the renovations, the hotel will officially adopt the “Wyndham Hotel & Conference Center” name by May 31, which will mark the end of the hotel’s first phase of remodeling.

The 11-acre property includes two four-story buildings with 300 rooms, over 30,000 square feet of flexible conference space, and New Mexico’s only and nationally-ranked indoor water park with five pool areas, two slides and other amenities in a 30,000-square-foot facility adjacent to the hotel.

“Since the hotel’s construction in 1972, the property has become one of Albuquerque’s most recognized landmarks even as it has gone through several identities and renovations,” said Theodore Barela, CEO at Peak Hospitality. “As New Mexico natives who have seen the transformations this hotel has gone through, we’re excited to see this property shine as the renovations progress to make it one of Albuquerque’s premier hotels and conference centers.”

The Peak Hospitality team plans to honor the long-time Albuquerque families that helped to build the original Four Seasons property as well as the rich history of its fine dining and quality meals. This will be accomplished in how existing banquet areas and restaurants are remodeled and upgraded in the first phase.  In all, there will be three phases of renovation. Future phases will include work on the water park and other improvements at the property. 

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (January 24, 2017) – Wyndham Hotel Group, the hotel giant with an unmatched global presence of nearly 8,000 hotels, is making waves and defining approachable luxury in Florida with the opening of its latest resort destination, the new-construction, 343-room Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach.

The striking two-tower resort, owned by Florida philanthropist Dr. Kiran Patel and managed by Wyndham Hotel Group, sits just steps from Pier 60 and the white sands of Clearwater Beach, named the best beach in the U.S. It offers direct Gulf Coast views, signature dining, contemporary décor, and more than 22,000 square feet of event space – including the Dunes Ballroom, the largest in Pinellas County – for memorable meetings and events.

“The Clearwater Beach area is one of the country’s top spots for vacationers and convention travelers, and record-breaking spikes in visitors year after year have fueled demand for high-end, quality accommodations,” said Mark Kukulski, head of Wyndham Hotel Group’s management company. “With Wyndham Grand’s unique and understated approach to luxury travel, we’re meeting that demand and offering an exceptional resort environment which can’t be matched in this market. We’re focused on introducing this distinct brand to the most sought-after cities and resort towns around the world, and Clearwater Beach is a significant addition to that list.”

Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach is the brand’s 14^th location in the U.S. – and the third in Florida, joining established resorts in Orlando and Jupiter – as it continues widening its footprint in amazing destinations like Athens, Phuket, Shanghai, Istanbul, Chicago, and Frankfurt. Wyndham Hotel Group recently unveiled plans for stunning new-construction Wyndham Grand hotels in Barbados, Nevis, Uruguay and Paraguay.

The resort, located within 30 minutes of the area’s two international airports, offers 12 meeting rooms – including the nearly 11,000-square-foot Dunes Ballroom which can accommodate up to 800 people – complete with terraces, outdoor function space, free Wi-Fi and state-of-the-art technology like programmable chandeliers which can change colors and light patterns at the touch of a button. With each event at Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, professional and novice planners can earn loyalty points with go meet®, the first formal rewards program of its kind for meeting planners. Planners who are members of the Wyndham Rewards® loyalty program can earn one point for every dollar spent on qualifying revenue, regardless of billing method, with no minimum spend requirement and no maximum point limit.

Each contemporary guest room at Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach faces the ocean or Intracoastal Waterway and features water-inspired décor and floor-to-ceiling windows, with most offering balconies. The hotel’s bunk rooms are just right for family vacations with bunk beds for kids and separate king beds for adults, while two bi-level presidential suites offer the utmost in waterfront luxury with three bedrooms, separate dining and living areas, and private terraces.

Guests can dine and imbibe at DocK’s, the pool bar and grill; eSKPades, the barista and lobby bar; or Ocean Hai, the resort’s signature dining experience and the only Asian Fusion restaurant in Clearwater Beach. Additional services and amenities include an open-air lobby, a pool overlooking the beach, the full-service Spa Pallavi, and a 24-hour fitness center.

The resort also encompasses more than 100 two- and three-bedroom vacation ownership units through Wyndham Hotel Group’s sister company Wyndham Vacation Ownership and its CLUB WYNDHAM® brand.

The addition of Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach boosts the company’s expanding collection of managed properties, which recently grew to more than 100 hotels and resorts globally with the acquisition of Fën Hotels, a leading management company in Latin America with 23 hotels and three soon-to-open locations across Argentina, Peru, Costa Rica, Uruguay, Paraguay, and the U.S.

Image Details:
Left to right: David Downing, Executive Director of Visit St. Pete/Clearwater; Geoff Ballotti, President & CEO, Wyndham Hotel Group; Dr. Kiran Patel (fourth from left, flanked by family members), Owner, Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach; Steve Holmes, Chairman & CEO, Wyndham Worldwide; George Cretekos, Mayor of Clearwater

New high-rise hotel will feature 196 guest rooms, including 12 suites, and is due to open in early 2021

WOKING, UK and MCLEAN, Va. - Hilton (NYSE:HLT) today announced plans to introduce its flagship Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand to the affluent Surrey town of Woking, with the signing of a management agreement with Bandstand Square Developments Limited (BSDL). The new high-rise hotel will feature 196 guest rooms, including 12 suites, and is due to open in early 2021.

"Hilton Woking joins Hilton's impressive portfolio of more than 160 trading and pipeline hotels in the UK and Ireland," said Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development, EMEA, Hilton. "Woking is undergoing a major transformation, with an estimated £500 million funds committed in the next five years. This ambitious regeneration - together with the town's fantastic connectivity to central London and its main airports - makes it a prestigious location in which to introduce our flagship brand."

The hotel, located within the new Victoria Square retail and residential development, will play an integral role in Woking's town centre regeneration. Hilton Woking will be conveniently situated a short walk from Woking train station, with a journey time to Central London of less than 30 minutes. Additionally, the town provides direct, high-speed rail links to key locations across the South and West including Exeter, Cardiff, Bristol and Bournemouth, and is only 15 kilometres from Heathrow Airport.

"We look forward to working with Hilton on this terrific project," said Cllr John Kingsbury, director of BSDL and leader of Woking Borough Council. "The new hotel will offer everything guests require for a relaxing and productive stay, while being located in a fast-growing town with a strong business base. Together we will create a hotel that sets the standards of exceptional hospitality in the UK."

The hotel will feature a lobby bar, all-day dining restaurant, stylish Sky Bar, and an on-site coffee shop. For corporate events and gatherings, the hotel will offer more than 700 square metres of function and meeting space, including a 540-square-metre ballroom for up to 500 guests. For those travelling on business, guests will find both an Executive Lounge and business centre.

"Having opened DoubleTree by Hilton Woking in 2016, the new Hilton Woking will be a great complement to our existing hotel in the town," said Andreas Lackner, regional head, full service brand management, Hilton. "This new hotel is set to be a beacon of hospitality at the heart of Woking's thriving when it opens in 2021."

Hilton Hotels & Resorts has nearly 60 properties under development across Europe Middle East & Africa, adding destinations like Saint Petersburg, Tashkent, Cabo Verde, Tanger, Riyadh and Lake Como this year.

Hilton Woking will be located at the junction of Victoria Way and Church Street West, Woking, Surrey, United Kingdom. For more information about Hilton Hotels & Resorts, visit hilton.com. To view more news and access images, visit news.hilton.com. BSDL was advised by JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group.

The eighth edition of the Young Hoteliers Summit (YHS) will continue to serve as a communication platform for leading hospitality firms, their masterminds, and top talents from over 40 international hospitality schools. Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, the YHS Challenge, and workshops, the 3-day summit aims to shape the future of the industry.

The Young Hoteliers Summit has been hosted at Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) every year since its introduction in 2010. YHS attracts both students and professionals by taking advantage of its position as the most influential student-organized hospitality summit on a global scale. All participants are integrated to have a positive and meaningful experience from YHS: whether as a student having the opportunity to work on a unique project in a resourceful learning environment or as a company who have just received a series of excellent solutions to their business problem.

This exclusive summit, highly appreciated by the likes of many hotel companies and industry leaders, composes itself of four main event features. Keynotes enable successful professionals to share their knowledge and experiences with student delegates and other industry leaders. Panel discussions about current industry topics allow invited speakers to exchange insights from different perspectives. The YHS Challenge asks the delegates to come up with new, questioning and innovative approaches for the problem or case presented by the Challenge Provider. During workshops, the summit attendees are exposed to new insights, unusual point of views on hospitality related topics, and, most of all, learn from each other. Through these four pillars, YHS creates a platform for stakeholders, speakers, partners and delegates to expose their ideas and thoughts as well as broaden their own horizon. This unique merger of different generations of future and established hoteliers creates the summit’s signature future thinking and desire to shape the industry of tomorrow.

The eighth edition of the Young Hoteliers Summit takes place at Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne, Switzerland from 13^th until 15^th of March 2017. With this year’s umbrella topic, the eighth edition seeks to evaluate, assess, and adapt the traditional hospitality business model. In today’s hospitality industry, fast moving digital players are increasingly gaining importance by catering to ever-changing consumer behavior. The unstable environment of the industry drives the need to reinvigorate business practices and calls for the introduction of creative new structures. In 2017, YHS will question hospitality companies from within, lay an increased focus on strategy planning as well as reassess product innovation and branding.

After seven successful editions of YHS, the organization committee is confident and excited that the Young Hoteliers Summit 2017 will live up to and exceed the expectations associated with it. More information regarding the YHS Challenge Provider, Keynote speakers, panel discussion participants and topics will be released closer to the summit. Beforehand, Young Hoteliers Summit is happy to announce the start of the YHS Ranking 2017 survey. Hospitality students and future hoteliers are encouraged to rank the most desirable employers in the hotel industry. The survey is available through the official website of YHS (www.yhsglobal.com). Every participant has the chance to with over CHF 2000.00 worth of travel vouchers offered by Local Measure.

MCLEAN, Va. – January 25, 2017 – Hilton (NYSE: HLT) announced the appointment of Hans-Georg Roehrbein as general manager of the 357-room Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino, which recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation. Roehrbein most recently served as general manager of the Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino in Egypt, where he oversaw the operation of this more than 1,000-room hotel, with 14 food and beverage outlets, and more than 1,600 team members.

Originally from Germany, Roehrbein is a more than 30-year hospitality industry veteran who started his career as a Sous-Chef at the Miami Airport Marriott hotel in Florida. Over the course of more than three decades, Roehrbein developed his skills within the Marriott organization. His first 10 years focused on food and beverage operations at hotels in key U.S. cities and Bermuda, while the latter 20+ years saw Roehrbein acting in general manager and resident manager roles across India, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Egypt and even Aruba, where he opened the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino and acted as resident manager for three years.

Roehrbein brings an exceptional operations and food and beverage background, as well as a proven track record for driving guest and team member engagement, while ensuring positive, proactive owner relations.

Given his previous stint in Aruba, he is familiar with the destination and excited about returning to take on the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino repositioning.  

Los Angeles, CA – January 25, 2017 - At the Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS) awards presentations today, executives and companies responsible for the most influential hotel industry deals in 2016 were honored with prestigious ALIS awards. Nominees are considered for the awards based on outstanding business performance in various industry sectors and determined by ALIS sponsors and delegates. This year’s winners include:

Development (Full Service) of the Year 2016
Note: Full Service includes branded and unbranded - luxury and upper upscale chain scales, and casinos.

• Marriott Marquis Houston – Houston, TX
  The 1,000-room Marriott Marquis Houston was developed and owned by RIDA Development Corporation and ARES Management and is managed by Marriott International.
   

Development (Select/Limited Service) of the Year 2016
Note: Select/Limited Service includes branded and unbranded - upscale, upper midscale, midscale, and economy chain scales.

• Courtyard New York Downtown Manhattan/World Trade Center – New York, NY
  The 317-room Courtyard New York Downtown Manhattan/World Trade Center was developed by Robert Finvarb Companies and Hidrock Properties and is managed by Concord Hospitality Enterprises Company.
   

Single Asset Transaction of the Year 2016

• LondonHouse Chicago – Chicago, IL
  An affiliate of Union Investment Real Estate purchased the 452-room LondonHouse Chicago for approximately US$315 million through a sale-lease-management back transaction from an Oxford Group, LLC led venture with Angelo, Gordon, & Co.
   

Merger & Acquisition of the Year 2016

• Marriott International, Inc. / Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
  Marriott International, Inc. acquired Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. for approximately US $14.6 billion.
   

Jack A. Shaffer Financial Advisor of the Year 2016

• Amish Barot, Managing Director/Head of Americas, REGAL, Deutsche Bank
   

Thomas Corcoran, Jr. of FelCor Lodging Trust, JP Ford of Lodging Econometrics, John R. Karver of CBRE Hotels, and Benjamin Leahy of Goldman Sachs & Co. served as ALIS Awards Committee Chairs.

Thomas J. Corcoran, Jr., chairman of the board and co-founder of FelCor Lodging Trust, was also honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS), January 23-25, 2017 in Los Angeles. This prominent award is presented to an individual who has made significant contributions to the hospitality industry over his or her lifetime through their actions, deeds, and great accomplishments.

Co-hosted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and Burba Hotel Network (BHN), the two-and-a-half-day ALIS event features an extensive array of seminars and panels hosted by leading experts and investors discussing important trends and identifying new opportunities. The conference attracts the lodging industry’s leading hotel executives, investors, lenders, developers, and professional advisory community. Proceeds from ALIS benefit the educational, research, and training missions of the American Hotel & Lodging Education Foundation (AHLEF), AHLA’s nonprofit affiliate. For information on the Foundation, visit www.ahlef.com.

LAS VEGAS —February 25, 2017 — The Siegel Group Nevada, Inc., a real estate investment and management company founded by Stephen Siegel, announced today that it had completed the sale of the Rumor Boutique Hotel for $18 million.  The buyer was an international investment group based out of China which paid the full listing price, which was over 70% higher than the price paid for the property - a testament to the Siegel Group’s ability to identify under-valued assets and utilize its hands-on management style and creativity to add substantial value to assets it acquires. The Rumor brand was not included as part of the sale and will remain owned by The Siegel Group Nevada Inc.  The Siegel Group plans to relocate the brand soon to an alternate location in the Las Vegas market which has yet to be disclosed. The new owner will re-brand the property. Sun Commercial Real Estate’s Investment Services Group and Hospitality Division, with Cathy Jones and Josh Smith taking the lead, exclusively represented the marketing and sale of the hotel on behalf of The Siegel Group.  Sun Commercial’s Chief Executive Officer Cathy Jones stated “The property offers a great opportunity for a buyer interested in stepping into a strategically located Las Vegas hotel property with consistently improving economics. The new internationally-based owners were selected as the winning buyer from multiple offers received.” 

Located directly across Harmon Avenue from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, the 150-key hotel is atypical of the mega-resorts and nationally flagged hotels that dominate the Las Vegas market.  The unique resort immediately captured the attention of Siegel Group founder and CEO Stephen Siegel who saw both the need and demand for small, chic and intimate boutique hotels similar to the resorts found throughout the California market.  In 2008, during the early days of the recession, The Siegel Group succeeded in being the first to introduce the boutique hotel concept to the Las Vegas market which it quickly expanded to include Rumor, The Gold Spike Hotel and Casino, The Artisan, and The Resort on Mount Charleston. 

The Siegel Group is actively looking to acquire value-added properties throughout the United States and is working closely with lenders and private parties to take over distressed assets.  If you have a property you would like to submit for consideration, please email properties@siegelcompanies.com.  

Deutsche Hospitality is adding a further country to its hospitality portfolio. As announced in June 2016, the German company is approaching the Indian hotel market together with its Indian Joint Venture partner MBD Group. From the year 2020 on, guests will be able to relax in Bengaluru at the Zephyr – MBD Steigenberger Hotel and Apartments. Bengaluru is the third most populous city in India and is also called the “Silicon Valley of India” because of the growing importance of its IT industry.

Aimed at redefining luxury at Bengaluru, Zephyr is the pioneering mixed-use development entailing Luxury Hotel and Luxury Serviced Apartments by MBD Steigenberger. Located in the business suburb of Whitefield, The Zephyr – MBD Steigenberger Hotel and Apartments will encompass a five-star property with 178 rooms and suites and 123 Luxury Serviced Apartments. Specialty restaurants in hotel would include all day dining Chinese, Indian, Italian, tea-lounge, club lounge, private/exclusive club and lounge bar. 24,000 square feet of convention space and 12,500 square feet of spa area will be pure indulgence zone for the senses – a luxurious spa amidst a paradise of water bodies and palms offering treatments by world class therapists. The sprawling spa will offer a salon, pool and outdoor sports facilities like tennis court and a jogging track.

Interpreting luxury in the true sense of the word, Zephyr is designed by the world–famous architects Steelman Partners who specialise in the planning, building design, interior design and consultancy of high-end hospitality, resorts, leisure and entertainment projects. It’s Interiors are by Studio Papiri International, renowned for their unique, one of a kind design. Studio Papiri owes its success not only to its artistic and technical preparation, but also to the deep knowledge of the highest level lifestyle of super-luxury hotels.

MBD Group, India’s largest education and leading hospitality company and Deutsche Hospitality, the largest German chain of hotels and resorts, have announced a joint venture in the year 2016. There are plans to manage and franchise hotels under the brand “MBD Steigenberger” on the Indian Territory. For the next 15 years, the plan is to open 20 hotels.

Nobu Hotel Shoreditch, Nobu’s first European hotel, is pleased to announce the appointment of Gigi Vega as Regional Director and General Manager. Gigi Vega will oversee all of the operations at the new 150-room hotel, opening in spring 2017, including the 240-seat restaurant and a forthcoming rooftop bar.

Gigi Vega joins from Nobu Caesars Palace where she was the Vice President of Luxury Services and concurrently the General Manager of Caesars Palaces’ lifestyle boutique accommodation. Gigi Vega is an accomplished hotelier whose skills have been honed by over 25 years in the hospitality industry. Vega established her roots in the industry with InterContinental Hotels Group eventually branching out into the luxury segment with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.

Commenting on her new appointment, Gigi Vega said: “I am extremely grateful to have the opportunity to be part of the team opening Nobu’s first European outpost. Being in the creative hub of London is really exciting and we look forward to welcoming our guests this spring.”

As General Manager, Gigi Vega will bring her wealth of international experience to London’s newest hotel. She will lead a diverse team to deliver creative and innovative programmes, establishing Nobu Hotel Shoreditch as London’s newest must-visit destination.

Nobu Hotel Shoreditch is now recruiting for over 200 positions. The hotel is searching for individuals of varied experiences, from those ready to begin their career in hospitality, to those looking for a new, exciting opportunity as part of one of the world’s most renowned hospitality brands. Positions available are varied, from Chefs to Front of House roles and Waiters. The prestigious Nobu reputation has been built on perfecting the balance of luxury, fun and theatre, delivered by heartfelt passion and pride of service. Applicants must have the dedication and skills to uphold Nobu’s high standards and to embody and represent the brand’s core values. Visit www.jobs.jobvite.com/nobuhotelshoreditch/ to apply for a specific role or to register your interest.

Scottsdale, AZ – Jan. 25, 2017 – Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North welcomes Philip Clough as Resort Manager. A six-year veteran of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Clough hails most recently from the brand’s newest Hawaiian resort, Oahu at Ko Olina.

“Phil’s extensive experience in the luxury hospitality industry, and particularly his strong background in the food and beverage discipline, is a great asset to the Resort,” says General Manager Marc Bromley.  “We are excited to welcome Phil and his family to our home in the Sonoran Desert.”

As Resort Manager, Clough oversees the day-to-day operations at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale, as well as manages the following divisions: rooms, spa, food and beverage, and engineering. He also is responsible for monitoring and maintaining Four Seasons core standards to ensure all guests receive the highest level of service during their stay.

Clough comes to the Resort following his appointment as Resort Manager at Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, where he helped to lead the property through its spring 2016 opening. Prior to that, he served in the same capacity at Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia and previously as Director of Food & Beverage at Four Seasons Resort Lanai, where he worked with renowned restaurateur Nobu Matsuhisa and the Resort team to open NOBU LANAI restaurant.

Prior to joining Four Seasons, Clough worked for 10 years with Ritz Carlton Hotels & Resorts. He started his hospitality career after studying economics at James Cook University in Queensland, Australia.

Clough resides in Scottsdale with his wife Jarna, son Ryley, and daughter Isla. In his spare time, he enjoys the outdoors, running, cycling, football and spending time with his  family.

Newport, R.I. (January 25, 2017) – Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina debuts this month in the former Hyatt Regency Newport hotel. George Filopoulos of Metrovest and BLDG Management, owners of Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, along with affiliates of Square Mile Capital Management LLC, purchased the Hyatt Regency Newport and are leading the transition of the property.

Situated on nearly 10 acres of Goat Island with undisturbed waterfront views, Gurney’s Newport is the only resort property in the destination, with 257 guest rooms and suites, multiple spacious event venues, a full-service spa, as well as year-round and seasonal food & beverage experiences.  Throughout 2017, the guest experience is set to be enhanced, including: a refreshed lobby and room design that will stay true to the property’s New England aesthetic and origins; a new marina; an expanded pool deck and Pool Club, and a Kids’ Club with expanded family amenities. All food and beverage components will be overseen by LDV Hospitality, including the addition of the brand’s signature restaurant, Scarpetta, in May 2017, as well as the elevation of banquet and catering experiences and seasonal poolside favorite Pineapples. 

“Newport is an incredible year-round destination, and we’re excited to become part of the community with the new Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina,” said President and Owner George Filopoulos. “The authenticity of a classic New England getaway will be brought to life on-site in the design, bespoke programming and culinary offerings, which will create an engaging lifestyle experience for guests.”

Gurney’s Newport offers comfortable and spacious accommodations, poolside cabana service and an array of spaces for entertaining, making it an ideal choice for weekend weddings, midweek corporate retreats and family travel. Event spaces span 27,000 sq. ft., including a 300 and 650-seat ballroom, and 50,000 sq. ft of outdoor space, making it the largest group meeting space in Newport. 

CHICAGO -- January 25, 2017 -- Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced the opening of Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, the first Hyatt Regency hotel to open in Riyadh, the capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Developed by Mohammed A. Al-Swailem Co. for Commercial Investment, Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya is the third Hyatt-branded hotel to open in the KSA, joining Park Hyatt Jeddah Marina, Club and Spa and Hyatt Regency Makkah Jabal Omar. 

“We are delighted to announce the opening of the first Hyatt-branded hotel in the capital of Riyadh. We are confident that the globally recognized Hyatt Regency brand will resonate with business and leisure travelers visiting Riyadh,” said Peter Fulton, group president – Europe, Africa and Middle East, Hyatt. “Along with Mohammed A. Al-Swailem Co. for Commercial Investment, we look forward to expanding Hyatt’s brand presence throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”

Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya has been designed to connect today’s travelers to who and what matters most. With its prime location in Olaya, a growing financial district in Riyadh, the hotel is in close proximity to the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) and the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, and is a less than 40-minute drive to King Khalid International Airport.

“We are honored to work with Hyatt to open the first Hyatt Regency hotel in Riyadh,” said Abdul Aziz Al-Swailem, President & CEO, Mohammed A. Al-Swailem Co. for Commercial Investment. “As a company with extensive experience and depth of knowledge in design-build, we believe the opening of Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya has been designed to provide superior facilities and authentic service that cater to business travelers, leisure guests and groups of all sizes.”

Guestrooms and Suites

Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya offers 261 spacious guestrooms, including 40 suites, spread across 28 floors. All guestrooms and suites feature panoramic views of the vibrant city of Riyadh, and incorporate subtle local touches and design elements, including patterned leather panels that are embroidered with a contemporary interpretation of a middle eastern mashrabiya motif.

Located on the 26^th floor with spectacular views, the hotel’s Regency Club offers guests exclusive services, including complimentary internet access, use of the lounge meeting room, breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening beverages with hors d'oeuvres.

Authentic Culinary Experiences

Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya features a wide range of culinary experiences that meet guests’ diverse needs and preferences. The hotel offers Fifty Sixth Avenue Diner, a lively restaurant perfect for family dinner or lunch with friends, which features a mixture of well-known American comfort food as well as traditional favorites from various regions of the United States. Additionally, the hotel offers Azure, a contemporary dining destination that offers Aegean cuisine from Greece and Turkey with an open-kitchen concept and a wood-fired oven and charcoal grill.

Meetings and Events

Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya offers more than 10,700 square feet (1,000 square meters) of extensive conference and banquet facilities, including the Al Loulou’a Ballroom, which can be divided up into three separate rooms and seat up to 500 people theater-style. With nine flexible event venues, the hotel is the perfect venue for a variety of events such as weddings, social banquets, exhibitions, meetings, and conferences.

Wellness and Relaxation

Guests are invited to recharge in the hotel’s Sokoun Spa, which offers four treatment rooms and a variety of wellness services, including relaxation massages and therapeutic body treatments. A traditional Moroccan Hammam invites guests to unwind from the day's stress with a cleansing steam. The hotel also features fitness facilities, an indoor swimming pool, a multi-purpose sports court, and a Camp Hyatt kid’s club.

“Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya is set to become the ideal place for both business and leisure travelers in the Kingdom’s vibrant capital with its authentic specialty restaurants and extensive conference and banquet facilities,” said General Manager Nizar Weshah.

For more information, please visit riyadholaya.regency.hyatt.com.

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

LUCERNE, Switzerland, January 26, 2017 – Robert P. Herr, an award-winning Swiss hotelier, has been appointed General Manager of the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne, Switzerland's newest luxury resort.  He brings 23 years of experience with luxury hotels in Europe, the U.S. and the Middle East.

Mr. Herr will be responsible for the pre-opening activities and the management of the resort scheduled to begin opening this summer.  Part of a CHF 550 million luxury resort complex that encompasses 383 rooms in four hotels, 67 residences and 12 restaurants and bars, the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne will have a 107,000 square-foot spa and wellness center, meeting space for 900 people, several museums, a nine-hole golf course and three championship tennis courts.  Great care has been taken to preserve the historic ensemble of hotels – including the 1905 Palace and the 1879 Taverne – that rest on a high ridge above Lake Lucerne.

Prior to joining the Bürgenstock Resort, Mr. Herr was Area General Manger for the InterContinental Phoenicia and Le Vendôme Beirut.  He has spent his entire career at InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, the last 16 years in senior management roles at properties in Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic.  His expertise includes pre-opening and opening experience, expansion of incentive and conference business and a commitment to working with local communities. 

"We interviewed a number of seasoned hoteliers," explained the Resort's Managing Director Bruno Schöpfer.  “Robert is a passionate hotelier and a natural leader with luxury hotel experience developed in seven countries on three continents.  And being Swiss, he understands the art of hospitality and what makes an exceptional hotel,” said Mr. Schöpfer.

“My passion is hotel management,” noted Robert Herr. “I am excited about coming home to Switzerland to be part of the most extensive resort project to unfold in many years.”

Mr. Herr graduated from the École hôtèliere de Lausanne and earned an MBA from the Henley Business School.   He continued his studies at Cornell University's Ashridge Management College. 

For further information, please visit Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne, email info@buergenstock.ch or call 011 41 41 612 9010.

ROCKVILLE, Md. - January 26, 2017 - Hilton Washington DC/Rockville Hotel & Executive Meeting Center has announced the completion of a total revamp of the hotel's 315 guest rooms, suites, public spaces, including 35,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, and fitness center.  Ideally situated steps away from the Twinbrook Metro station providing easy access to downtown Washington D.C. and within walking distance of many shops and restaurants, the hotel now offers guests sleek, contemporary furnishings and modern interior design within close distance of D.C.'s most intriguing areas.  

"We are excited to share our new look with our guests" said Debra Green, general manager, Hilton Washington DC/Rockville. "The modernized furnishings and inviting accents create a welcoming atmosphere for business and leisure travelers alike, and provides a refined backdrop for more formal conferences or professional gatherings."

Long known for its ability to host large groups, the property added an additional 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, making it the largest convention center in Rockville, Maryland. The hotel boasts 14 upscale conference-rooms, a central atrium offering over 8,000 square feet of open space for receptions, exhibits and meals, a large lobby area allowing easy check-in for large groups and onsite parking for up to eight buses. 

Each of the 315 renovated guest rooms features new carpet, furniture, wall vinyl in earthy tones and stylish drapery. Guests will enjoy an array of standard amenities in each room, such as complimentary Wi-Fi, flexible work desks, mini-refrigerators, coffee machines and in room safes.  

In addition to the rooms, guests can expect significant enhancements made to public areas, such as the Hilton HHonors Executive Lounge and the lobby - now featuring a complete redesign of the front desk into a freestanding check-in area.  For fitness enthusiasts, the property's 1,200 square-foot, 24-hour fitness center has all new Life Fitness equipment. The hotel also added the Pike Café, which proudly serves Starbucks coffee and offers a 24-hour Pavilion Pantry Market.

The hotel's brand new restaurant and bar, Olive's American Bistro, now serves modern American fare with Mediterranean flair for breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner. Guests can gather at this stylish, modern bistro to start their day with an omelette or waffle, or enjoy a succulent grilled steak, fresh seafood and sensational sandwiches for lunch or dinner. Local craft brews are on tap, while over 30 wines are available by the glass during happy hour between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. daily.

Hilton Washington DC/Rockville Hotel & Executive Meeting Center is located at 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Maryland, 20852.  For guests looking to book a reservation at the hotel, visit www.hilton.com or call 301-468-1100.  The property is owned and managed by Driftwood Hospitality Management.

Newton, MA (January 26, 2017) – Sonesta ES Suites Somers Point has been completely reimagined and reinvigorated to provide guests more than just a place to stay. Following a multi-million dollar renovation completed this spring, the new residence-style suites welcome guests with all the amenities of a small apartment, creating the perfect mix of comfort and flexibility for business travelers and vacationers alike.

Sonesta ES Suites Somers Point stands out among New Jersey hotels, providing travelers a perfect spot to work, rest, play and feel right at home. The 120 newly designed studio and two-bedroom oversized suites feature spacious bedrooms, separate living and bath areas, providing room and versatility for those traveling on business for short or extended periods of time, as well as for families on vacation. The fully equipped kitchens, a complimentary daily breakfast, as well as on-site laundry save guests time and help manage budgets, while complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and self-service printers keep guests connected to work and home.

In addition to the unveiling of the reimagined property, Sonesta named Heather Aspenberg as the General Manager of the Sonesta ES Suites Somers Point property. In this role, Aspenberg will be tasked with overseeing the daily operational activities of the property and its staff. Working across teams, Aspenberg will be instrumental in maintaining employee engagement, driving revenue and profitability and ensuring that Sonesta ES Suites Somers Point provides guests with more than just a place to stay.

Heather previously served as the Operations Manager for Sonesta ES Suites Somers Point. Prior to joining the Sonesta team she served as the Dual Rate Slot Services Manager at Harrah’s Resort and Special Events Coordinator at Trump Marina, both located in Atlantic City, NJ. Heather earned a Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management from Johnson & Wales University.

“Heather’s more than 10 years of experience in customer service and support, as well as her time as Operations Manager, made her a natural fit for the position,” said Mark Quintero, Regional Director of Operations East. “We are confident her transition will be seamless as she takes on the roles and responsibilities of General Manager.”

Sonesta ES Suites is a surprisingly different take on an extended stay hotel. Designed to be as flexible as the diverse needs of our guests, each of the residence-style hotels feature oversized accommodations, adaptable work areas and common spaces, and a friendly, attentive staff that aim to make our guests feel relaxed and comfortable.

Sonesta is a growing, global hospitality brand with more than 60 hotels in seven countries, centered on a corporate dedication to delivering a guest experience that provides more than just a place to stay.  There is no typical Sonesta.  A portfolio of diverse and distinctive properties as individual as its guests, the Sonesta collection covers a full range of services from independence to full-service indulgence.

Discover Royal Sonesta and Sonesta Hotels & Resorts in Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Hilton Head Island, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Silicon Valley – San Jose, St. Maarten (3),  Chile (2), Colombia (5), Ecuador, Peru (5), and Egypt (6 + 4 cruise ships). Sonesta ES Suites is an extended stay hotel brand managed by Sonesta found in 27 locations near Boston, Atlanta, Baltimore, Burlington, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Colorado Springs, Columbus, Detroit, Flagstaff, Houston, Minneapolis, Oklahoma City, Omaha, Orlando, Parsippany, Princeton, Philadelphia, St. Louis and Tucson. For more about the Sonesta Collection, visit Sonesta.com or call +1.617.315.9200or 800.Sonesta (800.766.3782) in the U.S. and Canada.

DAYTONA BEACH SHORES, Fla. (January 26, 2017) – The Shores Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of Richard Byrd as General Manager of the 212-room boutique hotel – the only AAA Four Diamond Oceanfront resort in Central Florida. Byrd will oversee day-to-day operations of the property, which was recently purchased by UHON Inc. (December 2016) and is now managed by Pyramid Hotel Group.

With two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Byrd comes to The Shores with extensive operations experience with upper-level brands such as Hilton, Marriott, Starwood and Interstate Hotels and Resorts. Most recently, Byrd was General Manager at the Crowne Plaza Melbourne-Oceanfront, where he was named Entrepreneurial General Manager of the Year (2015).  Prior to this, he was Vice President of Operations at Trans Inns Hotel Management, where he directed 13 properties with combined revenue of $94 million. He has served as a board member for numerous tourism organizations, and currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Franklin College in Indiana.

Maria Gasparella has been appointed director of sales at Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, the bucolic Tuscan resort founded by Massimo and Chiara Ferragamo. In this role, Gasparella will lead and oversee the property’s sales team and promote the estate as a key tourism destination in the region. 

“With a strong sales background at luxury properties around the world and experience working in Tuscany’s local tourism industry, Maria is a welcome addition to Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco,” said Davide Bertilaccio, managing director of Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco. “Maria’s skillset and passion for hospitality will be key assets as the resort, and we are thrilled to have her join now as we have just opened the resort’s villas for the winter season through the Winter Villa Escape.”

Prior to joining Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, Gasparella served as associate director of sales at the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, where she led the sales team and developed the leisure sales strategies and activities during the property’s pre-opening and post-opening periods. Previously, Gasparella also held sales positions at the Four Seasons Florence, including Sales Manager and Director of Sales.

Gasparella holds a degree in Hotel Management from the University of Como.

Jersey City, NJ – January 26, 2017 – The 152-suite Residence Inn by Marriott in Jersey City, New Jersey is scheduled to open on March 1, 2017. Located at 80 Christopher Columbus Drive, the all-suite Residence Inn Jersey City will operate as a Marriott franchise, owned by Columbus Hotel Urban Renewal of Hoboken, NJ and managed by True North Hotel Group of Overland Park, Kansas.

Located in the heart of downtown Jersey City, just ten miles from Newark International Airport and 15 miles from LaGuardia Airport, the Residence Inn Jersey City offers its guests easy access to Liberty State Park, Liberty Science Center, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and Times Square. The hotel is conveniently located next to the Grove Street PATH Station for trouble-free access to New York City. Rates vary depending on length of stay.

“We are pleased to introduce Residence Inn hotels in the Jersey City area,” said Diane Mayer, vice president and global brand manager, Residence Inn. “When on the road for an extended period, our guests need space to spread out, maintain their life’s pace and restore their energy to help them maintain a healthy balance and routine while traveling. This new hotel offers them a seamless blend of modern style and functionality that allows them to settle in and thrive.”

The Residence Inn Jersey City is an all-suite hotel that offers studio and one-bedroom suites. 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. 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.

The Residence Inn Jersey City rotates a wide selection of healthy choices at our free hot breakfast every day. Start with favorites like bacon and eggs, Greek yogurt, cut fruit or waffles and make it yours with our extensive toppings, ranging from fresh spinach and cheese to sliced almonds and strawberries. Enjoy all the options you need to start your morning with endless possibilities.

Extending the feeling of comfortable living on the road, the Residence Inn Jersey City offers guests inviting and functional public spaces to relax or collaborate. Road warriors and families alike enjoy the hotel’s grocery delivery service, 24-hour onsite food and beverage market, dry cleaning services, and onsite guest laundry room. Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art oversized fitness center, 360 square feet of meeting space to accommodate functions of up to 12 people, complimentary Wi-Fi and fax and copy services. The hotel will also feature a full-service bar and a rooftop patio offering breathtaking views as well as a barbecue grill and fire pit.