Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach awarded two Michelin keys

                                  Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, a boutique resort setting where oceanfront pools and the Island’s best beach beckon to discover the true art of vacationing, has been awarded two Michelin keys by the Michelin Guide, an accolade that recognizes hotels worldwide for offering the most singular and authentic travel experiences. The award celebrates excellence in design, architecture, service, and character, as well as a meaningful contribution to the local community. As one of only six two key hotels in Florida, this distinction embodies the uniquely crafted, personalized stays that guests of Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach have come to cherish.

Mazen Saleh, General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, expresses his pride in the achievement: "We are honoured to receive this prestigious two Michelin key accolade, a reflection of the local charm that shines here with very special thanks to our gracious, dedicated and passionate team. At Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, it’s like having your very own beach house on a beautiful island where every moment of your getaway is attended to with kindness and care. This award celebrates the exceptional hospitality and warmth that makes a stay here stay with you.”

At Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, guests can step into a world of relaxed beachfront sophistication and step out effortlessly to enjoy all that Palm Beach has to offer at their own pace. The Michelin Guide’s point of view: “Pleasures don’t get much simpler than the ones on offer at Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach - this upscale beach town and this ultra-palatable luxury hotel are a match made in heaven. The rooms and suites are contemporary in style, but gently so - this is a long way, figuratively and literally, from Miami Beach. The beach club, the pools, and the Spa are all as tranquil as can be, and the restaurants don’t disappoint - Florie’s, the flagship, is a partnership with the multiple Michelin-starred Mauro Colagreco, who adapts his Italian and Argentine influences to the climate and produce of South Florida.”

The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore announces the reintroduction of its membership programme,

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The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore announces the reintroduction of its membership programme, promising an elevated wellness experience for its members. Recognized as the only Forbes-awarded spa in Maryland, The Spa offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking harmony of mind and body.

In addition to the special membership, The Spa is unveiling its enhanced Vitality Pools. The updated pools now feature invigorating colour therapy lights and luxurious jets integrated into seating benches. This refreshed hydrotherapy oasis combines hot and cold therapy to boost immunity and improve circulation, complementing the spa’s existing heat treatments.

Accessible to annual members, hotel guests, and spa patrons, The Spa includes full-service Relaxation Rooms equipped with brand-new, state-of-the-art Vitality Pools, Experience Showers, Saunas, and Steam Rooms. Membership benefits include:

Coastline Resorts announces merger with Beach Vacations in Myrtle Beach

Coastline Resorts, a vacation rental company in Myrtle Beach, has confirmed its merger with Beach Vacations, a provider of vacation accommodation in the region. 

This partnership marks a significant milestone in the hospitality industry, combining the strengths and expertise of both companies to offer an unparalleled vacation experience in Myrtle Beach.

With this merger, Coastline Resorts and Beach Vacations will pool their resources, properties, and services to provide an expanded range of high-quality accommodations, enhanced customer service, and exclusive vacation packages. Guests can look forward to more diverse lodging options, from luxurious oceanfront condos to family-friendly resorts, all conveniently located near the best attractions and golf courses Myrtle Beach has to offer.

Beach Vacations has been a trusted name in Myrtle Beach for years, known for its extensive portfolio of rental properties and dedication to guest satisfaction. The merger will enable both companies to strengthen their market position, offering an unmatched level of service and a broader selection of accommodations to meet the diverse needs of visitors to Myrtle Beach.

The integration process is already underway, with both companies working closely to ensure a seamless transition for all guests and partners. Current and future guests can continue to book their vacations through either Coastline Resorts or Beach Vacations, with the assurance that they will receive the same high standard of service that both brands are known for.

https://coastlineresorts.com/

https://www.beach-vacation.com/

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Hilton to expand presence in Frankfurt with Hilton Frankfurt Gravenbruch, set to open in October

Featuring a range of wellness, culinary and meeting options just 15 minutes from the city centre, Hilton Frankfurt Gravenbruch is expected to open in October

Hilton recently announced the signing of the 225-room Hilton Frankfurt Gravenbruch as part of a management agreement. The property will go through a conversion to Hilton’s flagship brand with an opening set for October 2024.

Patrick Fitzgibbon, senior vice president, development EMEA, Hilton, said, “With more than 60 properties either trading or under development, Germany continues to be a key strategic market for Hilton, and we’re excited to be further expanding our portfolio in Frankfurt working alongside Allsco Gravenbruch Hotelbetriebsgesellschaft mbH. This signing marks our ninth hotel in this major business and transport hub under four of our market leading brands, demonstrating wide-ranging traveller demand with more than 10 million overnight stays in the city last year alone. With the announcement of this impressive countryside property featuring a variety of facilities for both leisure and business travellers, we’re looking forward to welcoming even more guests to Frankfurt.”

Moris Mashali, managing director, Allsco Gravenbruch Hotelbetriebsgesellschaft mbH, said, “We are delighted to once again be working alongside Hilton to write the next chapter in the history of this unique historic property, and we are excited to bring all our ideas together to make the hotel even better for our guests. This will include making further progress on our environmental commitments and making our hotel even more accessible for guests. Whether staying with us for a conference, wedding, event or leisure break, the hotel offers something for everyone, and the fantastic group of team members ensure that every guest feels at home during their stay.” 

The hotel, which will undergo a renovation across all rooms and public areas over the coming months while the hotel continues to operate, has elements that date back over 400 years. As Early as 1586, a manor house was located on the site where the hotel stands, and over time a hunting lodge was also added, with the hotel becoming a popular destination for Frankfurt’s nobility during the late 19th century. Several updates transformed the property into a stunning hotel that’s hosted many international stars and Heads of State over the years. 

Hyatt hotels welcomes the opening of the Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has celebrated the opening of the Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport, the second Hyatt Place hotel in the state of Maharashtra and the eleventh Hyatt Place hotel in India.

The 150-room property exemplifies the Hyatt Place brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere, and elevated amenities.  It is located near both Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad) Airport and the city’s economic zones such as Shendra MIDC and Waluj MIDC, the hotel combines style, innovation and 24/7 amenities to create an easy-to-navigate experience for today’s multi-tasking traveler. The property is close to nearby tourist attractions such as historical landmark, Bibi ka Maqbara, and provides guests with easy access to the renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Ajanta and Ellora caves.

Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport delivers a seamless transition from work to relaxation and is the perfect base for guests traveling to the city of Aurangabad for business and leisure. The hotel’s extensive facilities include multiple dining options including Zing offering all day dining, Zing Bar and The Market, specialized event and meeting spaces, a fitness center, and a swimming pool.

“Hyatt Place Aurangabad is the seventh Hyatt-branded property in the State of Maharashtra, highlighting our commitment to this region. We are excited to continue our strategic expansion, extending our presence to destinations that align with our guests' preferences and offering owners and developers the opportunity to leverage our global distribution network and benefits of the World of Hyatt loyalty program,” said Dhruva Rathore, Vice President of Development, India & Southwest Asia, Hyatt.

Commenting on the opening, Amit Jain, General Manager at Hyatt Place Aurangabad Airport said, “We are thrilled to bring the Hyatt Place brand to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), offering a global level of comfort and convenience to both business and leisure travelers. Our dedicated team looks forward to providing exceptional service and ensuring every guest's stay is memorable and enjoyable.”

Hyatt Place Aurangabad features 150 spacious rooms, each designed and outfitted with the latest amenities and features to meet the needs of the modern-day traveler.  Every room has a state-of-the-art media and work center, a 55-inch Smart TV, a comfortable Cozy Corner Sofa and beautifully designed bathrooms. The property also boasts five suites each with a balcony, one King Suite and elevated décor and furnishings to let guests rest and unwind as well as their own private outdoor space with a pool view.

The property offers guests a variety of culinary options to enjoy on the premises. The on-site restaurant Zing offers an extensive buffet and a’la carte menu with inspired Asian, Italian and Indian offerings. Zing Bar located in the hotel lobby provides an ideal space to relax while sampling a selection of spirits and cocktails. Guests on the move can also stop by at the grab n’ go café The Market for a freshly brewed coffee, sandwich, or bakery item. Guests can also order in-room dining from the menu available.

The Motley Hotel Richmond, Melbourne set to open in autumn 2024.

Hilton Hotels have announced the signing of The Motley Hotel Richmond, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, marking the brand’s debut in Australia. 

Signed as part of a franchise agreement with Amber Property Group, the 80-room hotel is located in the heart of Richmond’s historic Bridge Road, within walking distance of a variety of restaurants, bars, and the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. 

Rising above the charming Federation Terraces once occupied by the beloved local seamstress and costumier, Ms. Mary Parker, The Motley Hotel boasts a fun and eclectic style. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, including an on-site rooftop bar and restaurant and one meeting space, blending contemporary comfort with a touch of historical charm.

The hotel joins a global portfolio of over 135 Tapestry Collection by Hilton hotels, each with a unique and vibrant personality shaped by elevated design and locally inspired food and beverage, offering guests authentic experiences. 

“This new brand entry will enrich Hilton’s diverse portfolio in Australasia as we bring new brands to new markets across the Asia Pacific. The addition of the Motley Hotel Richmond, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, reflects Hilton’s commitment to accelerate its lifestyle category growth,” said Paul Hutton, area vice president APAC and head of Australasia, Hilton.

Eight moments helping Hilton reach 8,000 hotels

Market entries worldwide, advancements in Hilton’s lifestyle portfolio and participating Small Luxury Hotels of the World hotels joining the portfolio are all contributing to Hilton’s growth trajectory

Just over two years after opening its 7,000^th hotel, Hilton now has more than 8,000 hotels operating globally. Following a series of additions to its portfolio, including NoMad, Graduate Hotels, Small Luxury Hotels of the World and Autocamp, Hilton is unlocking hundreds of new ways for guests and owners to benefit from the company’s expansive network.

Hilton celebrates 8,000 Hotels, Globally

This has been a significant year for Hilton’s development, marked by strategic partnerships and acquisitions, and continued organic growth from our existing brands,” said Kevin Jacobs, chief financial officer and president, global development, Hilton. “The Hilton network – led by our powerful brands – continues to be an engine of opportunity for guests, owners, team members and communities. We’re excited about the growth opportunities that lie ahead and our ability to spread the light and warmth of hospitality to every corner of the world"

As Hilton celebrates 8,000 hotels globally, these are eight moments so far this year that are helping Hilton accelerate its growth for the future.

Hilton’s Growth So Far in 2024

Hyatt Place Rouen opens

Hyatt Hotels Corporation confirmed the opening of Hyatt Place Rouen, expanding the Hyatt Place brand’s global footprint in markets that matter most to guests and World of Hyatt members. Combining style, innovation and 24/7 convenience, the new hotel features a modern design, casual atmosphere, and practical amenities, such as three meeting rooms, a restaurant with French regional cuisine, an onsite spa with a heated pool and treatment rooms, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre.

Hyatt Place Rouen is conveniently situated in the heart of Rouen, a pleasant stroll from iconic sites such as the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Rouen and the Gothic Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, and located within a former teacher training college dating back to 1886. Just a two-hour drive away from Paris, with unparalleled access to the charming countryside and historical sites of Normandy, Hyatt Place Rouen is an ideal choice for both work and relaxation, situated in the third most visited region in France.

The hotel offers panoramic views overlooking the city’s skyline of “a hundred spires”, and this outlook is reflected in the interior design with a steel blue palette evoking the Seine River and stormy Norman skies. This complements the muted yellow tones, in a nod to the region’s renowned Calvados spirits and the warmth of the local culture. Stripes feature throughout the property, as a reference to the half-timbering characteristic of the old town area. Within the “Jardins des Oeuvres”, three striking sculptures add to the hotel’s charm and character. Seamlessly blending contemporary style and comfort, Hyatt Place creates an easy-to-navigate experience for today’s modern traveller.

Commenting on the opening, Michel Morauw, Managing Director Hyatt EAME North said, “Hyatt Place Rouen captures the essence of Rouen’s rich history while providing the modern traveller with a comfortable, convenient and memorable stay, whether visiting for a short business break, or a leisurely getaway to explore the region’s culture and history. Hyatt Place Rouen marries classical charm with contemporary sophistication, and further expands the brand’s presence in one of our key markets, offering guests and World of Hyatt members exceptional experiences in sought-after destinations.”

Hyatt announces plans for Park Hyatt Sapporo

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with Heiwa Real Estate Co. Ltd., for a new Park Hyatt hotel in Sapporo. Scheduled to open in 2029, the hotel will be situated in the economic and cultural centre of the Hokkaido Prefecture in northern Japan. It will be the fourth Park Hyatt branded hotel in the country and will complement the award-winning Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, a luxury mountain retreat located in Hokkaido’s leading ski resort.

The hotel will be conveniently located in a mixed-used tower under development at the intersection of the famed Odori Park and bustling Sapporo Ekimae-dori, the city’s main commercial and business thoroughfare. Spanning the 27th through 35th floors, it offers magnificent views of the park and city. The building will be designed by celebrated architect Kengo Kuma, who is renowned for his innovative ability to blend architecture and the natural world. Park Hyatt Sapporo will offer 157 luxurious rooms and suites, world-class culinary and wellness experiences, an indoor swimming pool and inspiring spaces for meetings and events.

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Hokkaido’s year-round attractions now account for the most inbound overnight stays and tourism spending of any regional area in Japan, separate from the nation’s three major metropolitan areas [source: Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism]. Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido is known for rugged wildernesses, superb powder snow, sumptuous seafood, intriguing indigenous culture and more. The city is easily accessible by 90-minute flights from Tokyo, and eventually by high-speed rail when the Bullet Train extends to Sapporo in the early 2030s. As Japan’s fifth-largest city, Sapporo itself has become a favored destination. Tanuki Koji shopping street and the Susukino entertainment district bustle with tourists year-round, while Sapporo’s iconic winter landscape has been named one of Japan's top sights to behold.

People at the Tanukikoji Shopping Street

“Park Hyatt Sapporo is our second collaboration with Heiwa Real Estate, after Caption by Hyatt Kabutocho Tokyo, which is set to open in 2025,” said David Udell, group president, Asia Pacific, Hyatt. “We sincerely appreciate their confidence in Hyatt, and we are honoured to join with them in elevating the luxury offerings in this dynamic city. We are excited to be part of the ongoing transformation of Sapporo, as more discerning business and leisure travelers, including World of Hyatt members, head north to discover Hokkaido.”
“With a superb location in central Sapporo, Park Hyatt Sapporo will become a luxury home-away-from-home for those looking to experience Sapporo's rich selection of attractions,” said Kiyoyuki Tsuchimoto, representative executive officer, president and chief executive officer of Heiwa Real Estate. “This development project is the starting point of our new growth strategy, as we contribute to Sapporo's evolving stature as one of Japan’s leading cities. We are confident that our collaboration with Hyatt will be another highly successful one.”
Park Hyatt Sapporo will join Hyatt’s growing Japan portfolio of 21 hotels encompassing nine brands, including Andaz, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt Place, Hyatt House, Caption by Hyatt, and The Unbound Collection by Hyatt. Hyatt is steadily increasing its brand presence in Hokkaido with Park Hyatt Hanazono which opened in early 2020, as well as the vibrant Hyatt Centric brand, which is set to debut in Sapporo in 2026. -

Hyatt to acquire Standard International including its brands, The Standard and Bunkhouse Hotels.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation this week announced the planned acquisition of the brands and most of the affiliates of pioneering lifestyle company Standard International, the parent company of The Standard and Bunkhouse Hotels brands. This move enhances Hyatt’s position as the leader in the industry’s premier lifestyle space, building on both its organic growth and a series of acquisitions that quintupled the number of lifestyle rooms in Hyatt’s global portfolio between 2017 and 2023. The transaction is anticipated to close later this year, subject to customary closing conditions.

With this transaction, Hyatt will form a new dedicated lifestyle group that will be headquartered in New York City. Led by Standard International's Executive Chairman Amar Lalvani, the lifestyle group will leverage Hyatt's best-in-class operational and loyalty infrastructure while assuming distinct leadership across key functions including experience creation, design, marketing, programming, public relations, restaurants, nightlife and entertainment. The new lifestyle group will be made up of the talented Standard International team as well as Hyatt colleagues – more details about the lifestyle group will be shared following the closing of the transaction.

Wyndham Rewards Ranked Best Hotel Loyalty Program by Readers of USA Today

                   Wyndham Rewards, the world’s most generous rewards program spanning more than 60,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally has once again been ranked the top hotel rewards program by readers of USA Today while the Wyndham Rewards Earner Card has been ranked the top hotel credit card.

This marks the seventh consecutive year Wyndham Rewards has taken the top spot in program rankings from USA Today and the sixth consecutive year its credit card has taken the top spot. Nominees for the awards are compiled by a panel of industry experts, and winners are chosen based on daily voting from USA Today readers.

Both rankings are the latest in a series of wins for Wyndham Rewards, which just last month was named best hotel rewards program by U.S. News & World Report and most valuable rewards program by NerdWallet. What’s more, they add to a growing a list of accolades for parent company Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, which this year alone has been named one of Newsweek’s Most Loved Workplaces, one of Ethisphere’s Most Ethical Companies and one of Fair360’s Top 50 Companies for Workplace Fairness, among others.

Wyndham opens first Trademark Collection hotel in South Korea

La Vie D’or Hotel and Resort debut expands Wyndham’s market presence across South Korea to over 30 hotels

         Wyndham Hotels & Resorts officially introduced its Trademark Collection brand to South Korea with the opening of La Vie D’or Hotel and Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham. The new hotel elevates the Company’s presence in South Korea to over 30 hotels and joins nearly 20 Trademark hotels across the Asia Pacific.

La Vie D’or Hotel and Resort offers a unique blend of comfort and tranquillity amidst the tourism and transportation hub of Hwaseong-si. Guests can hit the links at the resort’s nine-hole course, indulge in fine dining, visit attractions like the Yungneung and Geolleung Royal Tombs and Yongjusa Temple or take a short drive to Seoul and Suwon. Those travelling for work have easy access to conference space, Wi-Fi and nearby hubs for Samsung Electronics, Hyundai-Kia Motors and more.

“Hotel owners in Asia Pacific continue to see the benefits of the Wyndham Advantage—global brand exposure, innovative technology, a growing loyalty base and more. Introducing Trademark to South Korea helps independent owners maximize their opportunity in the market, while delivering the incredibly unique experiences each Trademark hotel offers guests exploring the country.”

-Joon Aun OOI, President, Asia Pacific, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

A Tranquil Escape Within a Bustling Business Hub

Nestled in the picturesque city of Hwaseong-si, South Korea, just a 30-minute drive from Seoul, La Vie D’or Hotel and Resort offers business and leisure travelers a peaceful sanctuary. Spanning an impressive 330,000 square meters, the resort includes a nine-hole golf course, a fitness center, saunas, swimming pools and dining facilities that serve a diverse array of international cuisines crafted by talented local chefs.

Jeongnam-myeon, the lush area surrounding the resort, provides breathtaking landscapes outside of the nearby bustling city life, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. With 190 elegant rooms and various convention facilities, it is a prime location for corporate events, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and weddings.

Wyndham’s expansion with La Vie D’or Hotel and Resort marks a strategic move to tap into the increasing demand for business and leisure travel in South Korea amidst the government’s focus on furthering the tourism sector in the country. In 2023, the country welcomed approximately 11 million inbound visitors—showing a significant recovery post-pandemic—with the travel and tourism market expected to reach $13.66 billion by 2024.

WyndhamRewards.com 

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Hyatt Hotels completes the sale of Hyatt Regency Orlando for $1.07 Billion

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has confirmed that an affiliate of Hyatt has completed the sale of the 1,641-room Hyatt Regency Orlando and adjacent 45 acres of land to affiliates of RIDA Development Corporation and an Ares Management Real Estate fund (“Ares”) for approximately $1.07 billion, while retaining a long-term management agreement under the Hyatt Regency brand. In connection with the transaction, Hyatt retained $265 million of non-controlling preferred equity and provided an additional $50 million of seller financing for the adjacent 45-acre parcel.

The sale of Hyatt Regency Orlando is part of Hyatt’s capital allocation strategy to sell owned hotels and reinvest proceeds in asset-light platforms that accelerate growth, and exceeds Hyatt’s expanded $2 billion asset-disposition commitment announced in 2021. Over a three-year period, Hyatt has now realized $2.6 billion of gross proceeds, net of acquisitions, at a 13.3x multiple.

Hyatt Regency Orlando, the fourth largest Hyatt hotel globally by room count, has 1,641 rooms with 315,000 square feet of flexible event space. The hotel – which welcomes more than one million guests and attendees on average per year – is strategically positioned in the market given its prime location near popular Orlando attractions and direct connection to the Orange County Convention Center, the second largest convention facility in the U.S. The city’s strong tourism industry makes Orlando a key market, and RIDA and Ares intend to invest additional capital in a significant renovation plan that will focus on guestrooms and other amenities to further enhance the guest experience. 

Additionally, with significant experience developing large-scale convention properties, RIDA and Ares have entered into a development agreement with Hyatt for a new Grand Hyatt hotel on the 45 acres of land adjacent to Hyatt Regency Orlando. Upon the satisfaction of certain conditions, Hyatt and an affiliate of RIDA and Ares will enter into a long-term management agreement for the hotel. 

Grand Hyatt Kunming Opens in China's 'Spring City'

The 331-room hotel offers a distinctive luxury retreat in the heart of Kunming, blending elegance and opulence with the essence of Yunnan culture

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced this week the opening of Grand Hyatt Kunming, marking the debut of the Grand Hyatt brand in the heart of  China’s scenic southern Yunnan province, unveiling a new landmark of modern luxury and exceptional service inspired by Yunnan’s rich culture and charm.

Housed in Kunming’s prestigious Spring City 66 plaza, Grand Hyatt Kunming, together with Grand Hyatt Residences Kunming, a Grade-A office tower and luxury shopping mall with top-notch international brands in the complex, immerses guests in a one-stop destination for premium business, shopping, dining, entertainment and living in the heart of the city.

“We are thrilled to launch Grand Hyatt Kunming in collaboration with Hyatt, reinforcing our commitment to bring the best to Kunming and showcase the best of Kunming to the world. The opening further strengthens Spring City 66’s leadership as a premier lifestyle destination in Southwest China and injects new energy into the city’s travel, lifestyle, and business sectors, creating compelling spaces that enrich lives,” said Mr. Weber Lo, Chief Executive Officer of Hang Lung Properties.

“With its focus on delivering elevated experiences in iconic destinations, we are excited to announce introduction of the Grand Hyatt brand to the beautiful city of Kunming,” said Stephen Ho, President Greater China and Growth, Asia Pacific at Hyatt Asia Pacific. “This opening is a splendid addition to Hyatt’s luxury portfolio, and its central location provides guests the perfect opportunity to discover all that the city has to offer.”

Known as the “Spring City” for its year-round spring-like climate, Kunming offers endless attractions for culture, food and nature lovers alike, from markets and museums to stunning forests and lakes, all easily accessible from the hotel’s unparalleled location. Neighboring attractions include Jinma Biji Square and Nanqiang Street, famed for its night market. The hotel is also steps from the Yunnan International Convention Center and Tuodong Sports Stadium, and only a two-minute walk from DongFeng Square metro station.

“We are delighted to welcome guests to Grand Hyatt Kunming, offering a tranquil haven of elegant living directly connected to Spring City 66, a landmark luxury shopping and lifestyle destination. Through the hotel’s distinctive design, innovative culinary experiences and heartfelt service, we look forward to creating unforgettable memories for our guests and providing a gateway to discover the richness and beauty of Yunnan culture,” said Louis Low, general manager, Grand Hyatt Kunming.

Contemporary Design Inspired by Yunnan Culture and Nature

Goodnight Mirage....

An era came to an end on Wednesday when The Mirage Hotel and Casino closed for the final time. The special report opened back in 1989 and wowed the crowds with its signature volcano and the tigers that were the first gusts through the doors. 

Among the throng that watched the last eruption were 137 employees who had worked at the report from the very beginning. The Mirage, with 3,044 rooms was the world’s largest hotel when it opened at a cost of around $630 million. There were glitzy and expensive shops, celebrity chef restaurants and its showrooms featuring stars like Johnny Mathis, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. The illusionist duo Siegfried & Roy, whose tigers were the first creatures officially through the doors on opening day, performed at the Mirage for 14 years. 

Work has already started in the replacement, a 600-room hotel in the shape of a guitar that will be known as the Hard Rock Las Vegas which is scheduled to open in 2027.  

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Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas unveils Spritz Garden on PRESS Patio

As the sun dips below the horizon, Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas invites guests to take leisure at the newly launched Spritz Garden on PRESS Patio. Nestled within the vibrant ambience of Las Vegas, this enchanting retreat promises an evening of relaxed sophistication and creative mixology.

Whether relishing a classic Aperol Spritz or venturing into the realm of bespoke cocktails, each moment at the Spritz Garden is a celebration of relaxation and personal expression. Here, guests will embrace the tranquil evening ambience of PRESS Patio as an oasis to sip, savour, and unwind in style.

“Drawing inspiration from Mediterranean design, our collaboration with Campari and Fever-Tree transforms PRESS Patio into a sanctuary, creating an ambience where the desert breezes harmonize with the warmth of the setting sun,” shares Konrad Gstrein, Regional VP and General Manager, of Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas.

The Spritz Garden welcomes guests daily from 3:00 pm onwards, creating an exclusive haven that extends throughout the summer season. Featured cocktails include the signature Aperol Spritz, tantalizing the palate with Aperol, prosecco, Fever-Tree Premium Club Soda, and a hint of dehydrated blood orange. For a taste of the Mediterranean, the Mediterranean Spritz combines St-Germain, Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water, and delicate touches of lavender and dehydrated lemon.

First ECHO Suites Extended Stay by Wyndham opens in South Carolina

Construction workers hitting the road for month-long projects, travelling nurses visiting a new city for extended periods and digital nomads taking advantage of today’s work-from-anywhere policies will now have a new home-away-from-home with ECHO Suites Extended StaySM by Wyndham, which celebrated the grand opening of its first location, ECHO Suites Spartanburg in South Carolina.

The opening marks a major milestone for the brand, which has grown its development pipeline to nearly 270 hotels and over 33,000 rooms across the U.S. and Canada. Timed amidst an influx of infrastructure projects expected across the country over the next decade, additional ECHO Suites are slated to open in Texas and Virginia this year.

Philip Cox, ECHO Suites Spartanburg Owner said “Spartanburg, like many other cities around the country, is booming with projects that require long-term, comfortable and affordable stays. ECHO Suites is the answer with a well-designed prototype created with the operator in mind. Plus, when you add in the collaboration with the world’s largest hotel franchisor, it’s a perfect match.”

 An Efficient Build for Today’s Everyday Traveler

The arrival of ECHO Suites coincides with historic infrastructure investments in the U.S., including $1.2 trillion in approved funding as part of the 2021 Infrastructure and Jobs Act, the largest in our nation’s history. This is coupled with $280 billion as part of the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, driving construction of new chip manufacturing plants across the U.S.

Together, these projects are creating a tailwind for Wyndham and the everyday business traveler, particularly construction and other trade workers, many of whom are in need of long-term accommodations as they travel to job sites across the country. The work is expected to bring a $3.3 billion opportunity in additional room revenue to Wyndham franchisees over the multi-year period of spend.

The purpose-built, all new-construction, 124-room ECHO Suites prototype requires under two acres of land and has a highly competitive cost per key. Coming in at approximately 50,000 square-feet, the prototype is designed to offer 79% of revenue generating square footage. Rooms consist of single- and two-queen studio suites with kitchens as well as efficiently-designed public spaces—a lobby, fitness center and 24/7 guest laundry—that are designed to help limit labor needs.

Continued Investment in Extended-Stay Hotels

Brittain Resorts & Hotels appoints Brittney Jones as Chief Development Officer

Brittain Resorts & Hotels (BRH), the leading full-service hospitality management company in the Southeast, today announced the appointment of Brittney Jones to chief development officer. In her new role, Jones will oversee the expansion of BRH’s portfolio through strategic third-party management contracts, leveraging her extensive experience in business development and sales and her established industry relationships.

With a proven track record of driving results and fostering key relationships, Jones most recently was vice president of strategic partnerships with the Charleston, S.C.-based Raines Company. While there, she was instrumental in executing strategies that supported the company’s vision and expansion, significantly enhancing its market presence. Prior to assuming a position in development, she served as vice president of sales, marketing and revenue management, leading a team and supporting top-line revenue initiatives across the portfolio.

Room Mate Hotels Expands its Presence with Acquisition of Staying Valencia

Room Mate Hospitality & Leisure, a leading lifestyle hotel brand and lease management company headquartered in Madrid has announced the acquisition of Staying Valencia, a portfolio of boutique hotels and aparthotels in Valencia. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone in Room Mate Hotels’ expansion strategy, bolstered by the support of TPG Angelo Gordon, a diversified credit and real estate investing platform within TPG, and Westmont Hospitality, which together acquired Room Mate Hotels in 2022.

Staying Valencia operates a portfolio of 10 boutique properties in Valencia, including award-winning Helen Berger, and is renowned for its strong reputation, exceptional customer service, and commitment to providing guests with authentic, local experiences. This acquisition not only expands Room Mate Hotels’ presence across Spain, but also strengthens its foothold within Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city and a thriving destination in the European hospitality market. Room Mate Hotels plans to integrate and rebrand these properties into its family of prime-located lifestyle hotels.

Since the acquisition of Room Mate Hotels in 2022 by TPG Angelo Gordon and Westmont, Room Mate Hotels has significantly strengthened its financial position and revamped its portfolio through a program of capital expenditures into several hotels. The company is now well-positioned to continue its international expansion through further strategic acquisitions, new leases, and hotel management agreements.

Accor & Amadeus announce a new collaboration

This partnership will empower hotels to deliver inspiring and customized experiences across Accor's expansive global portfolio thanks to Amadeus’ market-leading Central Reservation System.

Amadeus and Accor expand their strategic partnership, with Accor implementing Amadeus’ Central Reservation System (ACRS) for its extensive portfolio of properties globally. Amadeus’ cloud-based technology will help Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, in boosting revenues, maximizing distribution strategies, and building deeper and more personalized connections with guests.

Empowering hotels with cutting-edge technology & new capabilities

Accor's ambitious distribution strategy aims at moving to tomorrow’s distribution and constantly striving to drive more business to its hotels while optimizing the cost of distribution.

Amadeus will provide best-in-class technology capabilities, including cloud, connectivity solutions, and an enhanced user experience. This will foster greater agility and simplicity for hotels to capture business, ultimately improving operational efficiency and guest service quality.

The implementation of Amadeus’ Central Reservation System will not only empower Accor’s hoteliers to leverage the established ACRS product but will also unlock new capabilities. These include enhanced flexibility, seamless integration with emerging technologies, and simplified operations. These advancements will enable hotels to better meet the evolving needs of guests, ensuring Accor remains at the forefront of the hospitality industry.

Powering the future of hospitality & elevating the guest experience

This enhanced collaboration between Accor and Amadeus aims to transform the hospitality landscape and deliver unparalleled guest experiences across Accor's extensive global portfolio.