ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: August 2005

Triple Witching Hour - The Marketing Plan, Revenue Management Strategy And RFPs For '06

It's triple witching hour in the hospitality industry! Let me explain - it is the time when the marketing plan, RFP bidding and establishing the revenue management strategy all combine into a confluence of factors that will influence success in 2006. By Carol Verret

More... [1454 views]

Hotel Chains experimenting with dumping the tub

As travelers take showers, hotel-company executives have been watching. And apparently they like what they see. In a move spurred by what hotels say is customer demand, major U.S. hotel chains are getting rid of what would seem to be an essential element of a bathroom: the bath.

More... [1307 views]

Accor Asia Pacific Appoints 11 GM's

Accor recently announced the appointment of 11 general managers within the Asia Pacific region.....

More... [2159 views]

The Successful Course Of The Middle East Market Continues To Reveal Results That Are More Than Satisfactory

Comparing the results of the two rolling 12-month periods 2003-2004 and 2004-2005: + 17.8% RevPAR

More... [708 views]

Swiss tourist industry reopens for business

The Swiss tourist industry says it is open for business even though some holiday resorts and scenic routes are still affected by last week's flooding. 
Hardest hit were mountain resorts and rail and road connections in the Bernese Alps and central Switzerland. "Swiss resorts need tourists [to salvage] their late summer and autumn seasons," Oliver Kerstholt of the national tourist board, Switzerland Tourism, told swissinfo.

More... [683 views]

The Dow Hotel Company announces two senior management appointments

The Dow Hotel Company, a hotel owner/investor and management company, today announced two senior management appointments as a result of the company’s recent expansion and acquisitions.  Ernie Catanzaro has been promoted to vice president of operations, and Frank Rodriguez was named general manager of the Doubletree Hotel Bellevue, outside Seattle, Wash.

More... [622 views]

Casino, classy hotel new George Clooney project

In the film "Ocean's Eleven," George Clooney robbed a casino. Soon he will build one. Clooney, nightclub owner Rande Gerber and two Las Vegas real-estate companies are expected to announce plans today to construct a $3 billion casino, boutique hotel and condominium project near The Strip.

More... [753 views]

AH&LEF awards 2005 annual Ecolab scholarships

The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Foundation (AH&LEF), the not-for-profit affiliate of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA), has awarded 11 hospitality scholarships to students participating in the Ecolab Academic Scholarship Program. AH&LEF administers the annual academic scholarship competition, which selects recipients based on academic performance, hospitality work experience, a personal essay, and financial need.

More... [567 views]

Marshall Management, Inc. names CEO and President

Marshall Management, Inc., a leading mid-sized management company, today announced that Michael Marshall has been promoted to CEO and president.  Concurrently, Charles Marshall has been elevated to the title chairman and founder of the company.

More... [512 views]

Phuket Pavilions launches "Personal Spa" concept

What is the worst part of any spa treatment?  The need to get up and leave when it’s over.  New pool villa resort Phuket Pavilions invites guests to ‘turn the villa into a personal spa’. 

More... [947 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief...

More... [1334 views]

Departure of Accor's chairman looming

Europe's biggest hotel group Accor could announce on Sept. 6 that its chairman Jean-Marc Espalioux is leaving, several French newspapers said on Monday. Accor had no immediate comment.

More... [1028 views]

Climbing the corporate ladder

The lodging industry's next generation of leaders has already started climbing the ladder to the top. HOTEL & MOTEL MANAGEMENT asked the Leaders of Tomorrow–some of the brighest stars ages 35 and under who are poised to make an impact–to share their thoughts on their careers, the current climate for the lodging industry and their hopes for the future of hospitality. By: Stacey Mieyal Higgins,  Hotel & Motel Management

More... [1565 views]

In a jam, a travel agent trumps the Internet

With today's focus on the Internet, it's easy to forget that using a travel agent might still be the best way to arrange air tickets, hotels, rental cars, cruises, tours and other travel services. Although you might pay a few dollars extra, an agent can often save a lot of time and keep costs to a minimum. And if things go wrong, you can't beat the assistance of a travel agent in setting them right again.

More... [667 views]

HSMAI/NYU Release Agenda for Industry Strategy Conference

HSMAI/NYU Release Agenda For Industry Strategy Conference On Roi In Today's Changing Sales And Marketing Landscape Travel and hospitality industry leaders and sales and marketing experts in both the business and leisure travel sectors will find a dynamic agenda of hot topics relating to return on investment (ROI) in today's fast changing landscape for sales and marketing strategies

More... [626 views]

Ten steps to plan the perfect reunion

The historic Interlaken Inn has hosted hundreds of reunions during its 110-year history.  Through the years it has acquired several helpful tips to planning an effective and happy reunion, whether for the  family, school mates, military buddies or just good friends who enjoy each other's company.  The Interlaken Inn's Ten Top Tips To Planning the Perfect Reunion are: 

More... [792 views]

Hong Kong: Shangri-La sees hotel room rates in city rising 20 pct in H2

Shangri-La Asia said that it expects average room rates at its Hong Kong Shangri-la and Kowloon Shangri-la hotels to rise to 295 usd in the second half, up 20 pct from a year earlier.

More... [745 views]

Dining Downunder releases global survey results on hotel cuisine promotions

From January to June 2005, Dining Downunder conducted a global survey on hotel cuisine promotions which was completed by over 650 in the hotel and restaurant industry. The survey was developed to identify the challenges for hotels in hosting cuisine promotions and to allow hotels to evaluate future promotions and distinguish the profitability of a particular event.  

More... [874 views]

New-look Rasa Sayang to compete with luxury hotels

The re-opening of Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort in Penang next year is set to raise the bar for Penang’s tourism development efforts and restoring the lustre to what was once the “Pearl of the Orient”.

More... [728 views]

125 Rezidor SAS Hotels participate in the third Hotel Environment Action Month

During the month of September, 125 Radisson SAS, Park Inn, Country Inn and Regent hotels and resorts will participate in the global Hotel Environment Action Month (HEAM). HEAM was initiated in 2003 by ITP (International Tourism Partnership), the tourism section of the Prince of Wales International Business Leaders’ Forum.

More... [574 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief...

More... [1191 views]

Top 10 castle hotels

You don't have to be royalty to sleep like a king! Gone are the days when you needed a royal title to spend the night in a castle. Nowadays, even the masses can stay in a storied, turreted keep, as residences of bygone kings and rulers are converted into premier hotels in Europe and beyond.

More... [1398 views]

Hilton set to unveil more Scots sell-offs

Hilton Group says it is just "weeks" from announcing the sale of three more of its Scottish hotels, and it will consider off-loading more in the coming years - with even the Edinburgh Caledonian not immune.

More... [620 views]

Thirty years on, it still feels good To Love Somebody

More... [850 views]

Shangri-La in talks to run two Sands hotels

Luxury hotel operator Shangri-La Asia is in talks with casino operator Las Vegas Sands to manage two hotel properties in Macau with a combined 1,500 rooms that are set to open as early as 2007.

More... [840 views]

Takeover bid for Jurys Doyle stalls

The board of the Jurys Doyle Hotel Group has withdrawn its support for a €17.50-a-share takeover offer from Irish property investment firm Precinct. Precinct, which is backed by the investor brothers David and Simon Reuben, had two earlier bids of €15.25- and €16.25-a-share rejected, before the Jurys board announced on 29 July it was prepared to recommend the latest offer to its shareholders.

More... [617 views]

Choice Hotels names David Bayes Managing Director of Choice Hotels Australiasia

Choice Hotels International, Inc.,  today announced that Australian native David Bayes has been named managing director of Choice Hotels Australasia, effective October 17, 2005.

More... [765 views]

Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf to Develop Luxury Hotel in Idaho

Sports Icons Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf Partner With Bayview Financial to Bring Luxury Hotel to Tamarack Resort. Tamarack, which opened in December 2004 as the nation's first all-season resort in more than 23 years, has gained global recognition for having the rare combination of ski, golf, village, and lake amenities, as well as world- class mountain biking trails, in a unique luxury boutique setting.

More... [1087 views]

Hyatt & Sunstone To Acquire LA's Century Plaza Hotel

World-Renown Home to Heads of State, Hollywood Celebrities and one of the Country's Top Meeting Destinations to be Managed as Hyatt Regency Century Plaza

More... [733 views]

IAHI Reaches mid-century mark

The IAHI, the international association of InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) owners and operators, will celebrate its 50th anniversary in conjunction with the InterContinental Hotels Group Americas Investors and Leadership Conference Sept. 20-22 in Las Vegas.

More... [586 views]

Francois Chopinet Appointed General Manager of the InterContinental Carlton Cannes

Francois Chopinet has been appointed General Manager of the illustrious InterContinental Carlton Cannes.  In his new role, Chopinet’s responsibilities will include increasing the stature of the famed hotel, a favorite among countless dignitaries and celebrities. 

More... [1122 views]

Foreign Chains To Dominate Brazil Hotel Sector by 2007

Foreign chains are seen to dominate Brazilian hotel sector in 2007, according to a specialised sector study named Raio-X da Hotelaria Brasileira.

More... [690 views]

New Name For EI Department Puts Focus on Specialized Hospitality Markets

The Allied Programs department of the Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Lodging Association has been renamed “Specialized Markets” to provide stronger identification with the sectors of the hospitality industry which it serves.

More... [515 views]

Thai hoteliers get Bt 3+ billion loan to revive post-tsunami business

Financial institutions have approved more than Bt 3.5 billion to businesspeople whose hotels and resorts at Khao Lak in Phangnga  province were destroyed by last December`s tsunami.

More... [635 views]

Best Western to Roll Out 360-Degree 'Virtual Tours' for 2,400 North American Hotels on Bestwestern.com

Best Western International, the world's largest hotel chain, has launched a comprehensive initiative to roll out 360-degree "virtual tours" for each of its 2,400 North American properties by next spring.

More... [565 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief....

More... [1247 views]

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Signs Agreement to Acquire Le Meridien Brand

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) today announced that it has signed definitive agreements to acquire the Le Meridien brand and all related management and franchise business for the brand's more than 130 hotels and resorts. Le Meridien recapitalisation progresses.

More... [2415 views]

Hilton positive despite British hotels slump

Hilton Group, the hotels and betting company, today said it expected July’s London bombings to have a "short term" impact as it recorded a modest increase in pre-tax profits for the six months to June despite a steep fall in profits at its British hotels. Brian Wallace, finance director and deputy group chief executive told Times Online that the market had shown "remarkable resilience" in the wake of the July bombings but added that figures had been hit as groups cancelled bookings after the attacks.

More... [683 views]

Housekeepers feel swamped as hotels pile on amenities

Hotel chains are rolling out super-thick mattresses, mountains of new pillows, extra sheets and hefty duvet covers in a competition to create the most restful sleep experience. Even budget chains are joining the fray, upgrading rooms with a rainbow of soaps, shampoos, teas and specialty coffees.

More... [1269 views]

Steven Hilton, the Grandson of Conrad N. Hilton, Named Chairman & CEO of Conrad N. Hilton Foundation

Steven Hilton has been named chairman and CEO of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, one of the nation's largest philanthropic organizations. The new responsibilities are in addition to his role as president which he has held since 1998. Hilton succeeds long-time chairman and CEO, Donald Hubbs, who retired recently from the foundation after 36 years.

More... [804 views]

What's next for hotel guests?

The future only means more gadgets are on the way. Many hotel chains are already thinking about what to offer next.

More... [1883 views]

Asian tourism industry to see sharp growth, China seen leading boom

The tourism industry in Asia is set for exponential growth, according to analysts speaking at an industry event on Wednesday.  They say there will be major changes, both in the type of travel and the profile of travellers.  And some cities are finding that they may have to reinvent themselves to attract the numbers.

More... [846 views]

Villa d’Este Announces Management Changes at All Holdings.

The Villa d’Este corporation today announced three important management appointments: Mr. Danilo Zucchetti will be the new General Manager of famed Villa d’Este on Lake Como, Ms. Francesca Tozzi is now General Manager of Villa La Massa in Tuscany and Mr. Marco Montagnani has been appointed General Manager of the Hotel Barchetta Excelsior and Hotel Palace in Como, Italy.  

More... [1256 views]

3rd Global summit to debate tourism industry strategic response to international terrorism

In response to recent terrorist bombings, the program of the 3rd Global Summit on Peace through Tourism is being adjusted to include a special plenary session  to debate a "Strategic Tourism Industry Response to International Terrorism." The 3rd Global Summit on Peace through Tourism is being held October 2-5, 2005 at the award winning Royal Cliff Beach Resort and Conference Center, Pattaya, Thailand.

More... [570 views]

Sheraton Hotels launch Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Beds in Asia Pacific

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has developed the brand's newest treat for guests: the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed. The hotel giant, owners and franchisees are putting over 7,000 new beds in Sheraton hotels in Asia Pacific starting from August 2005.

More... [1006 views]

Senior Appointments at Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts

Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts has appointed several top executives to its corporate office. The newly created positions will be filled by Mr Hisaaki Takei, Senior Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Operations, Mr Kevin Croley, Vice President, Sales and Marketing and Mr Masaichi Nakauchi, Vice President, Business Development.

More... [817 views]

Bringing the hotel home

Hotel style becoming popular with guests. Like that curved shower rod in your hotel bathroom? The embroidered pillow on the bed? The martini glasses you saw down at the bar? The latest vacation souvenirs may be as close as a hotel Web site, because these days just about everything in the room can be bought -- for a price.

More... [905 views]

Queen of resorts

Bright giant copper bowls line the entrance to the legendary island's newest "Luxury Village" as guests stroll up the driveway to the magnificent Four Seasons Resort Langkawi.  Five-metre high laterite Ayuthia walls from Thailand mark the way, and you are immediately taken in by the intricate decorative efforts that blend so many different cultures, namely Indo-Chinese, Thai and even Arabian elements.

More... [660 views]

Thomson Hotels announces further expansion

Having taken over the operations of the legendary Hollywood Roosevelt in December, Thompson Hotel Group has recently announced further expansion of its portfolio of chic boutique properties to include a second hotel in Los Angeles and two new properties in New York.

More... [555 views]

Starwood HR Regional Meeting in Malta

Starwood Italy and Malta recently held it yearly Human Resources Regional Meeting at The Westin Dragonara Resort.

More... [765 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief....

More... [1164 views]

Should You Outsource Your Marketing?

Few companies own all the marketing expertise they need, especially of the left-brain, analytic variety. Professor Gail McGovern outlines the pros and cons of turning over your marketing activities to outsiders. By Poping Lin, Harvard Business School

More... [1356 views]

What is the One Product or Service Missing from Your Hotel Stay that You Would Be Willing to Pay More for to Have?

More than half (52%) of adults feel there are things missing from the majority of their hotel stays and they would be willing to pay extra for some of these items or services. These are the results of a new Harris Poll of 2,339 U.S. adults surveyed online by Harris Interactive® between July 12 and 18, 2005.

More... [2095 views]

Kwek Leng Beng to headline Wired 2005

The Executive Chairman of Hong Leong Group, and one of Asia’s most prominent hotel owners, Kwek Leng Beng, will be the headline speaker at Wired 2005: Asia Travel Matrix, the online travel distribution and marketing conference, being held in Singapore this October. Mr Kwek, 64, will take part in an interview session with travel journalist, Yeoh Siew Hoon, during the opening session themed “East Meets West, Or Does It? Finding Your Own Way.”  Wired 2005 will be held at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront, Singapore on October 20-21. 

More... [819 views]

The Web Site Conundrum…Are You Winning the Electronic Marketing Game?

For some time now, I have urged hotels, especially the Independent variety, to play hard at the electronic marketing game.  There are big rewards for those who play well. The Internet revolutionized travel marketing and gave us the ability to market hotels on a global scale...at rates everyone can afford. To win, there are three primary elements which need your attention; The Global Distribution System (GDS), third-party aggregators, and, of course, your own web site.  By: Neil Salerno – The Hotel Marketing Coach

More... [907 views]

The Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong opens for business

Michelle Reis, prominent actress and model, joined senior executives from Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group and Hongkong Land today at a colourful ceremony to mark the opening of the stunning new Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong.  Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group Chief Executive, Edouard Ettedgui, the hotel’s General Manager, Susanne Hatje,  Nicholas Sallnow-Smith, Chief Executive, Hongkong Land Limited, and  Ms Reis cut the ribbon to declare the 113-room property officially open. 

More... [1043 views]

Four Seasons names John Davison Chief Financial Officer

Four Seasons Hotels Inc. announced today the appointment of John Davison, a senior Four Seasons executive, as Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Davison replaces Douglas Ludwig who is stepping down as CFO in order to take early retirement.

More... [1011 views]

Bali At Risk Of Trashing Tourism

The population of Bali and its surrounding islands are running a very real risk of doing what the Bali bombers and Indonesia's ridiculous visa regulations have so far failed to achieve, and that is putting an end to tourism. The problem is unsightly litter, trash, garbage--call it what you will--at the water's edge on the beaches and coastline of Bali. By Peter A Bailey   The Jakarta Post

More... [857 views]

Hotel hacking could pump smut into every room

Hotel hybrid broadband internet and TV-on-demand entertainment systems are open to attack, security researchers warn. Penetration testing firm SecureTest has identified a number of vulnerabilities in the implementation of hotel broadband systems delivered using Cisco's LRE (long-reach Ethernet) technology. Using a laptop connected to a hotel network, SecureTest found it was possible to control the TV streams sent to each room or gain access to other user’s laptops. By John Leyden, The Register, UK

More... [789 views]

Google Talk Offers Text and Voice Messaging

As widely anticipated, Google today launched its own instant message and web-based telephone system, in beta, joining a playing field of established rivals with more than 10 million users each - from market leader AOL, with AIM and ICQ , to Yahoo, Microsoft and Skype, writes Reuters. However, users must have a Google Gmail account

More... [682 views]

Equity Inns to Acquire Three Hilton and One Marriott Branded Hotel in the Midwest

Equity Inns, Inc. , the third largest hotel real estate investment trust (REIT), as measured by the number of hotels, today announced that it has entered into an agreement to purchase four hotels from partnerships controlled by Hospitality Specialists, Inc. (HSI), a hotel developer and management company, for approximately $25.9 million, or $69,000 per room. Acquisition of the hotels will follow the satisfactory completion of due diligence, and the transaction is expected to close in the third quarter 2005.

More... [517 views]

Merchant and Hotel Chain Part Ways Over Disagreement on Commission

As the debate over the place of the Merchant Model in the hotel industry continues, two established players in the industry have parted ways after failing to reach an agreement on commission levels.  

More... [721 views]

Banyan Tree adds Velavaru Island Resort to Maldives Portfolio

Singapore-based Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts has added yet another striking property to its successful portfolio in the Maldives. Joining Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru and Angsana Maldives Ihuru is Velavaru Island Resort located on the South Nilandhe Atoll. Acquired at US$20 million, the modest island of Velavaru measures 500m by 200m, and boasts world-class reefs that fringe the sparkling coast. 

More... [758 views]

Football legends meet at equally legendary hotel

Real Madrid football legends Ferenc Puskás, Alfredo Di Stéfano, Santamaria and Amancio teamed up with their latter day counterparts, including David Beckham, Roberto Carlos, Zidane, Raúl and Ronaldo at the equally legendary Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal in Budapest, Hungary. The past and present stars were in Budapest for a celebrated football match between today’s Real Madrid team and a Hungarian ‘All Stars’ Ferenc Puskás side

More... [590 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief...

More... [1134 views]

Eureka clinches InterContinental deal

The Eureka Funds Management group in Australia has fought off rivals to win a glittering prize. It will buy 10 properties from the InterContinental Hotels Group for $A385 million.

More... [898 views]

Paws for thought: Even dogs need a CV

This week, Yeoh Siew Hoon received an email titled “Surprise for your woman”. Since she was not interested in surprising any woman, she immediately deleted it. But the emails didn’t stop there. 

More... [1230 views]

The 2004 Hotel Industry CEO Survey

Based on our pay-for-performance model, Hasu P. Shah was underpaid by 121% in 2004. The model takes into consideration three primary criteria, EBITDA/FFO growth, market capitalization and stock appreciation, and compares that to total compensation. The lodging industry is in vogue. Capital has been pouring into the industry in unprecedented numbers and the beneficiaries have hotel buyers and sellers. By Keith Kefgen, HVS International

More... [1160 views]

Cornell Quarterly article finds restaurant owners have a higher success rate than commonly thought

One common perception of the restaurant industry is that most new restaurants fail within the first year of operation. But that is just not so, according to an analysis published in the August 2005 issue of the Cornell Hotel and Restaurant Administration Quarterly

More... [777 views]

Does Skype make sense for business?

Skype - the voice-over-IP software - is known for offering a way to make free calls anywhere in the world. Its friendly user interface, which you can personalise with pictures just like instant messaging apps, screams 'consumer' and one would imagine customers include university students and home users.  Yet Skype CEO Niklas Zennström plans to make the software an accepted part of corporate communications - both on the desktop and on smart phones.

More... [1273 views]

Singapore Must Reinvent Itself, Become More Exciting, Prime Minister Lee Says

Singapore must reinvent itself, remaking its skyline and improving its services, or lose out in an increasingly competitive global economy, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.  "If we stay unchanged, we will be in deep trouble, irrelevant, and marginalized,'' Lee said in his National Day Rally speech yesterday. "The world is changing rapidly and we must change with it'' he said, citing New York, Shanghai and Dubai as constantly evolving to woo new business and tourists.

More... [727 views]

Fears for UK Hotels ease as report shows bombings impact under control

Fears that the UK hotel industry would suffer badly from the  terrorist  attacks  last  month  may  be  abated from the picture that emerges  from performance figures for July, according to PKF (UK) LLP hotel consultancy services.

More... [626 views]

NEW YORK: Hotel is not for the fainthearted or the humor-free

New York's artsy Carlton Arms isn't for everyone. But those who appreciate funkiness and friendship just might feel right at home. 

More... [919 views]

Shortage of hotel rooms hits India's Capital New Delhi

It isn't going to be all fun and games at the Commonwealth 2010 games in the Capital. In fact, topping the logistics, there would be a serious lack of accommodation for visiting officials, coaches and perhaps even athletes and players.

More... [724 views]

Five-star flurry: Three Seattle luxury hotels are in the offing; each claims it will be the city's most luxurious

Pan Pacific Seattle, Hotel 1000 and Four Seasons Hotel Seattle -- these three ultraluxury hotels are making their way to Seattle in the next few years, and each claims it will provide the best luxury service in the city.

More... [686 views]

Thailand again increases budget for resort tourism

Thailand will spend 1.5 billion baht more on promoting tourism to revive southwest resorts hurt by the tsunami disaster, the new tourism minister, Pracha Maleenont, said.  "Reviving business to Phuket and south Thailand remains our top priority," Pracha said Friday. Pracha replaced Somsak Thepsutin as tourism minister in a cabinet reshuffle this month.

More... [579 views]

Gerhard Kropp appointed General Manager of Meritus Mandarin Singapore

Meritus Hotels & Resorts has appointed Mr. Gerhard F Kropp as General Manager of its flagship property, the Meritus Mandarin Singapore. An experienced hotelier who had invested two-thirds of his 30-year hotel career in Asia, Mr Kropp is familiar with Singapore where he had spent the last six years - four with Hotel InterContinental and two with The Fullerton.

More... [1119 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief...

More... [1141 views]

The Gratuity Revolution

A topic of great discussion recently has been the New York Times  extraordinary presentation on the “OP ED” page, 8/10/05, of Steven A. Shaw’s thought piece, “Tipped Off”, focusing upon renown Chef, Thomas Keller, who plans to change the gratuity practice at his restaurant, Per Se, to a flat service charge.  This is a decidedly European concept, considered by many US hospitality businesses and then dismissed out of hand.  This is a wise decision, for the premise of a service charge versus customer gratuity reflects confidence in product, service and facility with high standards on display at all times.   By John R. Hendrie, CEO, Hospitality Performance, Inc.  

More... [866 views]

The Hidden Market of Female Travelers

Women are a rising force among frequent business travelers. They also make a majority of decisions for their families’ personal trips. So can the travel business get in gear?  by Martha Lagace, Senior Editor, HBS Working Knowledge

More... [1449 views]

Accor Founders seek more zing as competition intesifies

Accor, the world's biggest hotelier, is weighing the most profound overhaul of top management since founders Gerard Pelisson and Paul Dubrule opened their first Novotel in 1963. Jean-Marc Espalioux, the 53-year-old who has run the group since 1997, seems to be facing the exit.

More... [1143 views]

Cendant Hotels Checks into China

CEO Rudnitsky says the chain's "woeful" global presence will change and thinks the burgeoning Chinese middle class offers "huge opportunities"

More... [800 views]

Once Again, it is Time to Ask: To Buy or Build?

When contemplating these sage words uttered by Lincoln over 175 years ago, we once again asked ourselves the question: are the historic market conditions that stimulated new construction in the past now appearing on the horizon? If so, are we likely to see overbuilding in certain markets and/or of certain property types as we have traditionally seen during past lodging recoveries? Or are the market fundamentals different this time such that the equilibrium point at which new hotel development is warranted has shifted? The short answer is…..perhaps! By: R. Mark Woodworth, PKF Consulting

More... [633 views]

Short-notice meetings: urgent training issues for venues - 10-point agenda from LateMeetings.com

Staff training issues in hotels and other venues that ought to be addressed urgently are an outcome of the accelerating trend towards short-notice
conferences, according to LateMeetings.com.  Estimates suggest that the average lead-time for a 50-delegate event is now six weeks, but same-week, or even same-day, reservations are no longer uncommon.

More... [993 views]

Buyers' Consortium Nears Hotel Success: Group Of 12 Cos. Secures Rate Quotes

Following nearly a five-year push to arrange collective buying arrangements with hoteliers, a consortium of 12 midmarket companies including Tokyo Electron America, International Sematech and Bose Corp. this month secured rate quotes for chainwide deals from such chains as Hyatt and Best Western.

More... [620 views]

Six Senses unveils The Earth Spa - A natural environment for Balancing Senses

After twelve months with skilled craftspeople creating one of the most unique spas in the world, the Earth Spa by Six Senses has opened in the Royal seaside town of Hua Hin, Thailand.

More... [909 views]

Educational Institute Publishes New Edition of Ninemeier’s “Management of Food and Beverage Operations”

The Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Lodging Association has published the fourth edition of “Management of Food and Beverage Operations,” written by Jack D. Ninemeier, Ph.D., CFBE, CHE. This textbook gives readers the foundation needed to make smart decisions in food and beverage operations

More... [733 views]

e-tid.com Alpha Forum Lunch at ABTA

Simon Breakwell, president of Expedia Europe, has been confirmed as the guest speaker at this year’s e-tid.com Alpha Forum Lunch at the ABTA Convention, in Marrakech.

More... [534 views]

Gomez Performance Index For Hotels: July 15 - August 15, 2005

The prevailing goal for hoteliers in the Performance Index is overall consistency. With few notable exceptions, the benchmarked sites on our index demonstrate very predictable average application speed and success rates.

More... [619 views]

The Delivering Group expands into Japan

The Delivering Group has expanded operations with the recent opening of a Delivering Japan office in Tokyo. Delivering's latest partner, who will run the new office, is Shigehiko Okuda, a veteran in the travel industry in Japan.

More... [557 views]

Hawaii Hotel occupancy 90.6%

More... [659 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief....

More... [1268 views]

Global Staff Movements - Who is In and Who is Out

The latest update on international executive staff movements.... Check it out.

More... [3082 views]

Former Ian Schrager executive launches new breed of hotel

Alden Hotels, which will launch this September, are the archetype of this new generation: a fresh breed of hotels which are a direct reflection of our lives and how we choose to live. The name "Alden" has a rich heritage as part of the English language. It translates to "old friend"- which is exactly how Alden will treat every guest - like an "old friend," greeting them with open arms and a warm embrace.

More... [1477 views]

Reward Sweetens Labour

Rewarding superior performance through a bonus scheme is a key element of compensation philosophy. Chris Mumford of HVS Executive Search looks at bonus scheme components in Europe. By Christopher Mumford, HVS Intrnational

More... [762 views]

Hotels court ratings from secret inspections

Diamonds can also be a hotel's best friend.  Welcome to the high-stakes world of rating the nation's best inns and resorts. It's a world of secret inspections in which hotels strive to attain and retain high ratings.

More... [793 views]

Cornell Quarterly Article Highlights Michelin Star Ratings

A ground-breaking analysis of Michelin star-rated restaurants is the newest featured article from the Cornell Hotel and Restaurant Administration Quarterly. The article, “Behind the Stars: A Concise Typology of Michelin Restaurants in Europe,” presents an overview and analysis of the vaunted restaurant rating system. The article is available at no charge from The Center for Hospitality Research, publisher of the Cornell Quarterly.

More... [929 views]

Do luxurious amenities make for plush profits?

High-comfort beds, big-screen TVs, free breakfast, Internet links. Travelers have come to expect such amenities in hotels, and owners feel the pressure to provide them even while the jury is out on whether they increase profits.

More... [966 views]

The Hilton Experience Hits Home: New Program Allows Guests to Indulge in Hilton Amenities at Home

Starting today, travelers can experience the luxurious comforts of the Hilton guestroom even after check-out. For the first time in its 80-year history, the hotel chain is making its custom-designed, luxury in-room items available for purchase, offering guests the opportunity to re-create the experience of a Hilton guestroom at home.

More... [952 views]

Marriott To Introduce Its Renaissance Brand To Thailand

Marriott International, Inc. will introduce its Renaissance hotel brand to Thailand under a management agreement with The Erawan Group PLC for the conversion of the existing 78-unit Buriraya Resort & Spa in Koh Samui to the Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa. The conversion is expected to occur by the end of 2005 following completion of a renovation of the resort.

More... [706 views]

Hotels in China See Big Jumps in Bookings

U.S. online travel giant, Travelocity®, urges hotels to take advantage of ‘window’. Chinese hotels that participated in Travelocity’s Net Rate programme experienced impressive jumps in overseas bookings for the first half of 2005.

More... [708 views]

Educational Institute Textbook Opens Up the World of Hospitality

The Educational Institute of the American Hotel & Lodging Association has published a new edition of the introductory textbook, The Lodging and Food Service Industry, by Gerald W. Lattin, Ph.D., CHA, former dean of the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management, University of Houston

More... [734 views]

InterContinental Considers Building Hotels in Iran

Officials of InterContinental Hotels will soon travel to Iran to hold talks with Iranian officials in charge to build hotels in Mashhad, Isfahan, Kish, and Bandar Abbas.  InterContinental Hotels Group is planning to invest in Iran's tourism sector, considering both purchasing and constructing hotels in different cities of the country.

More... [673 views]

Energy Summit for Starwood Hotels & Resorts

Starwood Hotels & Resorts has taken a leaf out of the recent G8 Summit by implementing an awareness programme which focuses on Climate Change and Carbon Management across its 400 hotels in Europe, Middle East & Africa.  The hotel group, whose brands include Sheraton, Westin, St Regis and Luxury Collection, has over the past few years been committed to becoming a ‘green’ operator at all levels.

More... [1311 views]

Fairmont Launches Online Career Center

Comprehensive Website Enables Job Seekers to Find Positions with One Click of the Mouse Fairmont Hotels & Resorts today launched a new interactive Online Career Center for anyone interested in pursuing a rewarding hotel career with one of North America's leading upscale brands.

More... [946 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief......

More... [1113 views]

New 'LXR Luxury Resorts' Collection Formed to Feature 21 Distinguished Luxury Hotels, Resorts and Spas in U.S., Puerto Rico and the Caribbean

Having finalized the acquisition of Wyndham International, Inc., affiliates of Blackstone Real Estate Advisors announced the formation of LXR Luxury Resorts. LXR Luxury Resorts will be comprised of 14 of Wyndham's premier owned and operated properties as well as seven hotels and resorts from Blackstone's Boca Hospitality Collection and Prime Hospitality holdings.

More... [1160 views]

Half-time for German hotel performance - what's the score?

German hotel performance was looking good the end of 2004, with revenue per available room (revPAR) up 4.7% - the second highest rate of growth reported by any country in Europe. However, latest results from the HotelBenchmark Survey by Deloitte show that German hoteliers have struggled to maintain growth at the same levels during the first six months of this year, with revPAR up just 1.2%.

More... [666 views]

The Hotel Terminal Cap Rate Delimma

Persistent low, long-term interest rates and the no-end-in-sight recovery of the lodging sector create a dilemma for hotel Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) number crunchers regarding the selection of a terminal cap rate (the rate used to estimate resale value at the end of the holding period). 

More... [932 views]

Asian Online Travel Bookings To Reach $16Bn In 2006

Online travel bookings in Asia are set to double 2003's figures to US$16bn by 2006, according to a report by Asia's leading air ticketing and reservations company. An estimated 29% of regional air travel bookings will be made online by the end of 2005, up sharply from 3.5% in the previous year, Singapore-based Abacus International said over the weekend.

More... [555 views]

Olympics boosts Beijing's tourism

As an ancient capital and the political and cultural center of modern China, Beijing is viewed  as a charming destination for tourists. As the 2008 summer Olympics are approaching, Vice director of the Beijing Tourism Bureau Xiong Yumei said Beijing`s tourism industry is now facing an unprecedented opportunity.

More... [711 views]

Hong Kong: Half-yearly arrivals reach almost 11 million, spurred by persistent long-haul growth

Hong Kong tourism continued its record-breaking run with a 5.8% year-on-year increase in arrivals in June , the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has announced. The 1,742,745 visitors was the highest June total ever, and continued the trend of setting a new record every month of the year to date.

More... [528 views]

Verchele Wiggins Mills appointed Vice President, Brand Management, Holiday Inn Express

In her new role, Mills oversees and drives the implementation of marketing strategies and programs to support the short- and long-term growth and profitability for more than 1,300 Holiday Inn Express hotels in the Americas.

More... [797 views]

Boutique Hotels & Resorts International® opens three new offices, adds staff, and new hotels

Boutique Hotels & Resorts International® today announced the opening of regional offices in the Middle East and Asia. From the group’s new headquarters at Miami Beach’s famous Lincoln Road, its Chairman and CEO, Martin H. Buehler, signaled a new approach when expanding into territories “where our Western corporate culture and strategy can only succeed when paired with a complete understanding and respect for regional traditions and the different ways of doing business that only local executives and staff can provide.”

More... [815 views]

WORLDHOTELS Appoints New Director of Sales and Marketing for France

WORLDHOTELS, one of the world’s leading global hotel organisations, today announced the appointment of Guillaume Filly as their new Director of Sales and Marketing, France .   Filly, who is based in WORLDHOTELS’ Regional Sales Office in Paris, is responsible for developing and managing sales and for marketing the brand in France as it continues its expansion throughout Europe.

More... [594 views]

No Boys Allowed: Presidente InterContinental Mexico City Offers 'Ladies Only' Floor

For women flying solo (to a travel destination, that is), the Presidente InterContinental Mexico City has a floor with their name on it. The designated  ‘Ladies Floor’ at this Presidente InterContinental property gives jet-set ladies an added sense of security, not to mention additional “much needed” amenities, to ensure they have a worry-free and pleasurable experience in one of the world’s great capitals. 

More... [817 views]

VISA Signs PATA Premier Partnership

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) today announced a new Premier Partnership with one of the world's most powerful brands, Visa. The strategic alliance brings together the leader of Asia Pacific travel and tourism and the world's leading card payment company. PATA President and CEO Mr Peter de Jong said he was delighted to welcome Visa as a Premier Partner of the Association and to start developing joint programmes that would utilise the collective data resources and customer reach of the two organisations.

More... [491 views]

Great Hotels Organisation launches international sales events to strengthen leisure marketing portfolio

In 2006 Great Hotels Organisation will launch a series of international sales events called Great Connections. The aim of these events is to provide a platform for member hotels to target luxury leisure travel agents and gain access to this lucrative market.

More... [584 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief....

More... [1121 views]

London hotels show robust performance for July

Business travel remains buoyant but weekend occupancy levels dip. London hotels revenue per available room (revPAR) was down only 5% in July compared with 2004 figures, according to Daily HotelBenchmark  by Deloitte.

More... [650 views]

Germany’s hotel players may be building a bubble

Frankfurt alone has 20 hotels under development. In addition to the SAS Radisson, there is a 288-room Movenpick, a 167-room Rocco Forte, a 170-room Fleming’s, and a 263-room Ibis all due for completion by next summer. If all the projects come off — including others from Meridien, Mandarin Oriental and Hyatt International — the city will soon have close to 20000 hotel bedrooms, a third more than it has today.

More... [872 views]

Booming Business Development Drives Middle East Hotel Sector Growth

Oil exploration and trade may have contributed to massive economic growth in the Middle East a few decades ago, but recent developments including economic diversification, market liberalization and the establishment of internationally renowned business centres and financial zones have had a positive impact on the region’s balance sheet.  With extensive promotion in international markets about the benefits of business in the Middle East and the subsequent influx of foreign investment, it is not just the stock exchanges that are recording strong growth – the hotel sector has experienced a significant boost in demand. 

More... [628 views]

Hard Rock Hotels and Intrawest Corporation Join to Develop Lifestyle Condominium-Hotels at Unique Destinations

Hard Rock International, Inc. announced that Lifestar Hotels LLC has entered into a multi-site agreement with Intrawest Corporation to develop lifestyle Hard Rock Hotels at select Intrawest resorts.

More... [676 views]

Hotel reviews give mature couples confidence to book online

Following Active Hotels’ launch of hotel reviews 15 months ago, customer opinions are proving to be a hit with consumers who can access the latest up-to-date advice and information left by previous guests.  Recent analysis of hotel reviews (received from 1st June – 31st July 2005), showed a shift towards an increasing number of reviews left by an older clientele. Versus the same period last year, there has been a 67.5% increase in mature couples submitting reviews, well ahead of young couples, business travellers, families etc.

More... [825 views]

Millennium Hotels And Resorts Announces New President For North America

Millennium Hotels and Resorts, North America, announces the appointment of Sudheer Raghavan as its president. Raghavan will spearhead Millennium Hotels and Resorts’ growing presence as a global hotel chain and to increase branding and awareness of its North American properties.

More... [758 views]

Asian Destinations Gearing Up To Tap Lucrative Chinese Outbound Travel Market Utilizing BITTM 2006

Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, South Korea, Laos, Vietnam, Philippines and other top Asian destinations are ramping up to capture the massive Chinese outbound with resourceful strategic plans, many of which include participating at the Beijing International Travel and Tourism Market 2006 (BITTM)

More... [598 views]

Robert Foster Named President of Noble House Hotels & Resorts

Industry Veteran Recently Opened Company's Caleo Resort & Spa in Scottsdale Pat Colee, chairman of Noble House Hotels & Resorts has appointed Robert Foster president of the company, inclusive of its 12 boutique styled hotels and resorts, located across the United States.

More... [701 views]

Upgrade for new marketing director at Hand Picked Hotels

Former budget hotel guru Nick Read has upgraded to the luxury hotel sector as the new marketing director of award-winning Hand Picked Hotels.  Nick Read has joined the board of Hand Picked Hotels, the exclusive collection of 14 luxurious country

More... [634 views]

Kempinski Hotels set to launch three new spas

Kempinski Hotels has extended its spa offering with the introduction of new facilities at the recently revamped Kilimanjaro Hotel Kempinski Dar es Salaam and also at the new Kempinski Hotel The Dome in Belek and the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay in Bodrum, both in Turkey.

More... [681 views]

EU helps train Viet Nam's hospitality staff

The European Union has financed 10.8 million Euros for a project to help Viet Nam's hospitality industry to raise its staff's skills to international standards.

More... [761 views]

LaSalle Hotel to buy Boston's Westin Copley Place

LaSalle Hotel Properties  on Tuesday said it would buy the Westin Copley Place in Boston for $318 million, adding to the real estate investment trust's portfolio of upscale urban hotels.

More... [679 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief.....

More... [1461 views]

The 11 P's in a Remarkable Rand

The world of branding seems mysterious. What makes one brand succeed and another, of apparent equal quality, fail? One thing is for certain. Brands almost never sell what they purport and the best, most successful brands have zeroed in on the non-logical centers of the brain and taken up permanent residence by appealing to the consumer’s feelings and fantasies. So what’s a brand to do? By Rick Hendrie President & Chief Experience Office – Remarkable Branding Inc. 

More... [1501 views]

Salary versus RevPAR

Do increases in RevPAR performance translate to increases in salary? Chris Mumford of HVS Executive Search takes a look at the London market to see if management salaries have increased in line with RevPAR.

More... [1457 views]

Audit of Hotel Invoices Turns up Overcharges that May Add up to Millions for Business Travelers

Business travelers, the bread and butter of the hospitality industry, are often overcharged without their knowledge by hotels, a pattern that adds up to significant extra costs nationally, according to a recent survey by an agency that books rooms for some of the country's biggest corporations.  The average American road warrior is overcharged $1.31 per night, according to a recent survey by Corporate Lodging Consultants, a Kansas-based agency

More... [706 views]

Key Management Promotions at Thailand's Central Plaza Hotels - 5 year plan announced

Central Plaza Hotel Public Co.,Ltd. revealed the company’s business plan for the next 5 years that will focus on the rapid growth of both the hotel and food business. Gerd Steeb appointed as President of Central Plaza Hotel Public Co., Ltd.

More... [896 views]

HSMAI launches Asia Connect Conference in Singapore

The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI), an association providing educational resources to the travel, tourism and hospitality industries, is taking its successful strategy conferences on the road to Asia, launching Asia Connect, its inaugural conference for the Asia Pacific Region, on October 19, 2005 at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel in Singapore.

More... [658 views]

Marriott International Appoints Three New General Managers in Asian Properties

New GM appointments in Thailand, Korea, Bali

More... [1690 views]

A First in the Asian Wellness Industry - The Spa Asia Wellness Summit

Hua Hin, Thailand, 21-23 September 2005 - As the wellness industry hovers at the brink of takeoff, its players and operators gather at the SPAASIA Wellness Summit themed as “ Gathering of Minds : Masters On Masters”. The SPAASIA Wellness Summit is considered timely as the parameters of the spa, hospitality, travel and related industries begin to fade.

More... [784 views]

Jumeirah in talks to acquire several French hotels

Dubai Holding's newly re-branded hotel chain, Jumeirah, is negotiating the possible acquisition of a number of hotels in Europe, according to reports. A recent report suggests Jumeirah and Saudi billionaire Prince Al Waleed Bin Talal Bin Abdul Aziz are interested in buying the Hotel de Crillon near Paris's Champs Elysees."Jumeirah also had its eye on the Hotel Martinez in the French Riviera resort of Cannes...

More... [1037 views]

InterContinental Hotels Group appoints Jenifer Zeigler Senior Vice President, Global Brand Management

InterContinental Hotels Group has appointed Jenifer Zeigler to the position of senior vice president, global brand management for InterContinental Hotels & Resorts.   Based at the company’s global headquarters in London, Zeigler will lead the development of brand strategy and marketing for the InterContinental Hotels and & Resorts brand, including the brand’s worldwide advertising and promotion activities.   

More... [948 views]

Quinlan to join race to buy Jurys?

     Property king Derek Quinlan is poised to join the battle to buy the Jurys Doyle hotel chain, according to widespread weekend reports.

More... [631 views]

BIL up 39pc on Thistle hotel sales

Investment company BIL International yesterday reported a 39 per cent rise in full-year profit. The Singapore-based company, formerly New Zealand corporate raider Sir Ron Brierley's Brierley Investments, posted an after-tax operating surplus of US$86.9 million ($124.71 million) for the year ended June 30.

More... [533 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief...

More... [1332 views]

Plotting his travels - Chapter III; Some bumps encountered

With his Shop in order, Standards established and Rating Scheme ready to go, Jacques Joie prepared to move into the realm of the intrepid traveler.  The first step, he mused, was to plan a trip – select a Destination, gain knowledge about the area (the lodgings, the restaurants, the attractions, and, of course, the history), research opinions about the Destination and the Hospitality Businesses through “blogs” and “bulletin Boards”, and, ultimately, make sound decisions and book some reservations.  By Jacques Joie (as in De Vivre) Aka John R. Hendrie 

More... [597 views]

Room for more M&A activity in hotel sector

Billions of dollars have already been spent on hotel deals this year, and the pace probably will accelerate into 2006, further boosting lodging stocks, analysts and industry experts say. Historically low interest rates and an abundance of capital have made hotels extremely attractive to investors chasing higher yields.

More... [759 views]

Hotels dumb down alarm clocks for weary guests

How difficult can setting an alarm clock be? That's a question of much interest in the hotel industry. Responding to guests confused by the numerous unexplained buttons on their alarm clocks, hotel companies are introducing simpler models designed to be more user-friendly. By Roger Yu, USA TODAY

More... [820 views]

Some people will sleep anywhere

Niche marketing has always been an interesting field. No matter how bizarre or narrowly focused some things might seem, there's someone who    finds it perfect. Take an ice hotel, for example. I could stay just about anywhere for a night, but an ice hotel ... well, let's just say one night would be it for me. Or what about underwater hotels? By Megg Mueller Schulte, USATODAY

More... [867 views]

Days Inns - Canada on a Roll with New Construction Hotels

It's a flurry of activity at Days Inns - Canada with construction underway at five future Days Inn sites located from coast to coast. All five hotels are set to open by the end of this year, adding over 350 rooms to the chain's portfolio.

More... [600 views]

CHECK IN CHECK OUT: The Rookery in London

Some hotels gain a certain cachet from the famous guests who have stayed there. For years, Winston Churchill held court at La Mamounia in Marrakesh. Coco Chanel kept an apartment at the Ritz in Paris, and Pamela Harriman took regular swims in its basement pool. Richard Burton and Liz Taylor cocooned themselves at the Dorchester in London after falling in love on the set of "Cleopatra."

More... [756 views]

Cendant CEO Henry Silverman to lead Business Roundtable's Fiscal Policy Task Force

Business Roundtable named Henry R. Silverman, Chairman and CEO of Cendant Corporation , as the new Chairman of its Fiscal Policy Task Force. Silverman will spearhead the Roundtable’s efforts to advance federal tax and spending policies that foster vigorous economic growth  and a healthy, competitive business climate domestically and internationally. Business Roundtable is comprised of 160 chief executive officers of leading U.S. companies.

More... [606 views]

Buddha Bar to launch in Dubai at Grosvenor House

Original Paris-based chill-out lounge and restaurant debuts this summer.  Grosvenor House West Marina Beach by Le Meridien has signed the rights to the Paris-based Buddha Bar in the UAE, and will open the Dubai concept of the globally-renowned venue in the summer. 

More... [825 views]

Welcome To The First Butlins Hotel

Butlins, once associated with basic 1950s-style chalet breaks, is opening its first resort hotel. The £10m four-storey establishment will be officially opened on Tuesday on the site of the company's holiday resort at Bognor Regis in West Sussex.

More... [613 views]

World's tourism experts to meet in Amman

The world's leading tourism experts will meet here next month to help guide the region on building their industry's image and performance through the media. The two-day Regional Conference on Tourism Communications (TOURCOM), which opens on Sept. 20, will take a look at the best practices of leading tourism destinations in reaching industry objectives and overcoming challenges.

More... [611 views]

Shangri-La consolidates China operations in new Shanghai regional office

Shangri-La  Hotels  and  Resorts,  Asia  Pacific's  leading luxury hotel group, will consolidate all mainland China operational activities in a new  regional  office in Shanghai on September 1, streamlining resources in  response  to  the group's rapid China development.  Located in Tower One of Pudong Shangri-La, the new Shanghai regional office will include all departments dedicated to the group's existing 19 China properties as well as projects under development.

More... [1213 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brieflll

More... [1256 views]

Confessions Of The Oriental's Hotelier: Kurt Wachtveitl knows plenty about his guests

Kurt Wachtveitl knows plenty about his guests, including Bill Gates and Elizabeth Taylor.  If Kurt Wachtveitl, general manager of The Oriental in Bangkok, Thailand, ever decides to write his memoirs, every New York publisher and Hollywood studio may beg to buy the rights.Wachtveitl, general manager for 38 years of what many critics call the world's best hotel, is so candid over coffee about the titans he's pampered, imagine what he'd serve up if he really dredged his memory.

More... [1663 views]

Forget Desperate Housewives, let's do Desperate Hoteliers

Yeoh Siew Hoon begins plotting a new television series, destined to be a blockbuster.

More... [1508 views]

Intercontinental in deal for up to 16 hotels

The world's largest hotelier Intercontinental  said on Friday it had signed a deal allowing Queens Moat Houses to use its Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn branding on up to 16 hotels.

The deal follows a similar one for five Stardon hotels in July, and takes the total under Intercontinental brands to 227 in the UK.

More... [756 views]

Global Hyatt Corp. announces Hyatt Place as name for its new select service brand

Following the acquisition of the AmeriSuites hotel chain in early January 2005, senior executives and design teams at Global Hyatt Corp. along with industry leading architects, interior designers and brand consultants set out to accomplish specific objectives to revitalize the chain and to launch a new leading edge hotel concept in the upscale select service segment.

More... [821 views]

Rezidor SAS Announces Free Broadband Service in all Radisson SAS Hotels

With Free Broadband, Radisson SAS steps ahead of its competition and offers yet another service to ensure total customer satisfaction. Free Broadband service comes with easy-to-follow instructions. The service includes high-speed as well as wireless Internet access. Since most Radisson SAS hotels are wired, all hotel guests can access the Internet from anywhere in the hotel: rooms, meeting facilities or public areas, by using their name and room number.

More... [668 views]

Four Seasons net rises 23%

Four Seasons Hotels Inc. moved up to a $15.8-million (U.S.) profit, the hotel owner and manager said Thursday, as improvements in luxury travel traffic remained stable.  Net earnings for the three months ended June 30 were 42 cents per share diluted, up from $12.8-million, or 34 cents per share in the same period last year.

More... [573 views]

Boutiques, brands test middle ground

Many hotel companies are following the lead of boutique hotels by emphasizing design. Some are even creating boutique-style brands. But Christian Strobel, v.p. of strategy and business development for Joie de Vivre Hospitality, cautions that boutique hotels' style goes more than skin deep.

More... [760 views]

New JLLH Research: US Hotel Transactions Report for Mid-Year 2005

The market dynamics leading to the explosive hotel sales volume in 2004, which nearly doubled that of 2003 and quadrupled that of 2002 are even more prevalent in 2005 as sales volume continues to climb. Transaction volume during the first half of 2005 reached US$8.4 billion, outpacing the record-breaking US$7.3 billion witnessed in the first half of 2004, for hotels traded at more than US$10 million.

More... [528 views]

Renowned hotelier joins Corinthia Hotels International board

Malta-based Corinthia Hotels International announced the appointment of Mr Christian G Windfuhr as an executive board director of the Company. Mr Windfuhr is a seasoned international hotelier with experience in Europe, USA, South Africa, Middle East, Far East, Australia and New Zealand. Until recently, he was CEO of MARITIM Hotels, one of the major players in the German hotel market.

More... [689 views]

Swiss Bear Sighting Aids Alpine Hotels, Ursine Pie, Watch Sales

Switzerland's first sighting of a wild bear in a century has unleashed nationwide bear fever, increasing regional hotel bookings and sales of a baker's ursine pie. It also prompted Swatch Group AG to market a watch with a teddy-bear face.

More... [810 views]

Hong Kong visitors rise to record

A total of 1.74 million tourists visited Hong Kong in June, up 5.8 percent from a year ago, bringing the half-year total to a record high, the city's tourism board said late on Wednesday. The increase was fueled by strong performance from long-haul and regional markets, which lifted the total tourist arrivals for the first six months to 10.98 million, up 9.6 percent year from the same period last year.

More... [590 views]

Legend Hotels plans to put up six more hotels in the Philippines

Filipino-owned Legend Hotels International Corp. (LHIC) plans to put up six more hotels in the country in the next two years. And it is eyeing Cebu as one of the priority areas for its expansion.

More... [662 views]

Marriott International introduces eBreaks®

Marriott International, Inc. announces eBreaks® for the United Kingdom, Ireland and Continental Europe . To receive a weekly announcement via e-mail travellers should register for Marriott International’s new eBreaks®.

More... [872 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief.....

More... [1149 views]

World's Sexiest Islands 2005

For many people, islands are forbidding, somewhat frightening places. Isolated and cut off, they have been the refuge of castaways, exiles and evil geniuses, such as Prospero and Dr. No. But there is another, altogether more appealing side to island life, too: One embraced by the Fletcher Christians and Paul Gauguins of the world who are looking to leave behind the confinements of civilization and reattune their circadian rhythms. By Sophia Banay, Forbes.com

More... [1709 views]

Tipped Off

When Thomas Keller, one of America's foremost chefs, announced that on Sept. 1 he would abolish the practice of tipping at Per Se, his luxury restaurant in New York City, and replace it with a European-style service charge, I knew three groups would be opposed: customers, servers and restaurateurs. These three constituencies are all committed tipping - as they quickly made clear on Web sites. To oppose tipping, it seems, is to be anticapitalist, and maybe even a little French. By STEVEN A. SHAW, The New York Times

More... [1056 views]

WTO: Tourists undeterred by terror threats

The recent attacks in Sharm el-Sheikh are expected to have only a short-lived effect on tourism flows to this Egyptian destination, in keeping with a change in the market's attitude toward the threat of terrorism over the past few years, a development that has made tourism more resilient, according to the latest report by the Market Intelligence Department of the World Tourism Organization (WTO).

More... [628 views]

Part of Hotel Roof Collapses Downtown Sofia

Nearly 20 meters of concrete from the roof of the winter garden of the Rodina hotel, located downtown Sofia, collapsed last night.

More... [740 views]

Smith Travel Research (STR) Launches Condotel Pipeline

Smith Travel Research (STR), the recognized leader in lodging industry benchmarking and hotel data, today released the first industry wide STR Condotel pipeline. Condo Hotels, or Condotels, are the hottest topic in lodging development this year and STR has compiled the leading pipeline database featuring 227 Condotel projects with over 93,425 units in various stages of development. The project level database will be available without charge to subscribers to the STR/TWR/Dodge Construction Hotel Pipeline in the coming months.

More... [806 views]

GDS Operators Report Growing Transaction Volumes

Amadeus and Worldspan today each reported higher overall transaction volumes during the second quarter, powered by particularly strong online business and increased booking levels overseas. Sabre Holdings and Cendant recently reported similar trends for their travel distribution operations.

More... [659 views]

The Internet: Consumers' Favorite Travel Destination

88% of Online Consumers Use the Internet to Purchase or Plan This Summer's Vacations Overwhelmingly, consumers are turning to the Internet for their summer travel planning and purchasing needs, according to independent research conducted by Feedback Research, a division of the Claria Corporation, a leader in online behavioral marketing.

More... [705 views]

Seibu Seeks to Sell Yokohama, Makuhari Prince Hotels

Seibu Group said it will seek a financial adviser to help it sell two hotels as it sheds assets to repay some of its 1.4 trillion yen ($13 billion) of debt. Seibu, which said last month it would sell the Tokyo headquarters of parent Kokudo Co., will put its Yokohama Prince Hotel and Makuhari Prince Hotel up for sale, it said in a statement distributed at a press briefing.

More... [553 views]

A quantum leap for the 5th International Hospitality Forum driven by a huge expansion in the hospitality & tourism sector in Jordan

With exhibition space up by 40% over the previous year, stronger international and regional participation and an expanded programme of events and competitions, the 5th International Hospitality Forum, which will take place from 20 to 22 September 2005 at the Amman International Exhibition hall in Marj al Hamam, promises to be a great event for all industry professionals and a must-visit show that should not be missed by local and regional visitors from the food and beverage, hotel, technology, catering, foodservice, supermarket, health and fitness, equipment and restaurant sectors.

More... [555 views]

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Completes Sale of St. Regis Hotel, Washington, D.C

Grande Dame of the Nation's Capital to Remain in the St. Regis Portfolio. The hotel will continue to be managed by St. Regis Hotels & Resorts and will remain in the St. Regis brand portfolio. Built in the style of an Italian Renaissance palace and richly appointed with European antiques, the hotel has been a stopping place for visiting royalty, presidents, and international dignitaries since its opening in 1926

More... [754 views]

Holiday Inn Supports High Achieving Aussies

Holiday Inn hotels across the country are urging guests to take part in the search for the next Australian of the Year.   

More... [663 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief.....

More... [1226 views]

P.R.S. Oberoi to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific

Hosts of the upcoming 16th annual Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) have announced that Mr. P.R.S. Oberoi, chairman and CEO the Oberoi Group’s flagship EIH Limited, will be awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the event, scheduled for 12-14 October 2005 at the InterContinental Hong Kong.

More... [735 views]

Fourth Annual Legal Roundtable at Cornell Hotel School Addresses Key Issues Facing Hospitality Companies

The Center for Hospitality Research at Cornell University ’s School of Hotel Administration and the Cornell Law School recently sponsored the fourth annual roundtable on legal issues in the hospitality industry. Participants included counsel from lodging and restaurant companies, members of private-practice law firms, professors in labor and employment law from leading law schools and universities, as well as corporate partners of the Center.

More... [637 views]

Kerzner Announces Second Quarter Results

Kerzner International Limited, a leading international developer and operator of destination resorts, casinos and luxury hotels, today reported results for the second quarter of 2005. The Company reported net income in the quarter of $10.5 million compared to net income of $30.1 million in the same period last year, resulting in diluted net income per share of $0.28 compared to diluted net income per share of $0.94 in the same period last year.

More... [567 views]

InterContinental Hotels Group Recognized With Leadership Award for Online Innovation

InterContinental Hotels Group  announced that it was recently awarded the 2005 Baseline ROI Leadership Award for Growth by Baseline magazine, Ziff Davis Media's acclaimed enterprise technology publication focused on technology implementation. The Growth Award is presented to the project that delivers the greatest incremental net income over a three-year period, calculated as the greatest percentage addition to the bottom line of the overall company, not just a division or business unit.

More... [638 views]

April 2005 YTD international visitation levels to US up eight percent

The U.S. Department of Commerce released figures today that show over 12 million international visitors traveled to the United States during the first four months of 2005, an increase of eight percent over the same period in 2004.  Arrivals were down by four percent in April 2005 compared to last year due to the impact of Easter traffic in April 2004. The impact was most significant in the Mexican market.

More... [675 views]

PATA releases First Quarter 2005 Quarterly Statistical Report

Detailed results of 900 origin-destination pairs for the first quarter of 2005 are available in the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)'s newly released "First Quarter 2005 Quarterly Statistical Report" ("QSR").  PATA Director-Strategic Intelligence Centre (SIC) Mr John Koldowski said, "Strategic travel and tourism marketers, no matter the size of their businesses, will immediately see value in our 'QSR' statistics."

More... [517 views]

China to build 10,000 "green hotels" by 2010

China will have had 10, 000 "green hotels" by 2010, said Zhang Zhigang, Vice Commerce Minister on August 6 in Beijing. A "green hotel" must be energy-efficient and environmental-friendly and is increasingly in vogue in the world's hotel industry. The US and European countries and regions have issued and implemented standards of "green hotels".

More... [823 views]

Nine new hotels set for Cape Town

Cape Town's central business district (CBD), which has already been the recipient of some 1,100 new hotel rooms in the past five years - in parallel to the construction and redevelopment of at least 30 commercial and mixed-use buildings - will be the site of at least nine more new hotels in the next two years, according to the Cape Town Partnership.

More... [697 views]

Le Meridien Dubai aims to combat obesity

Le Meridien Dubai’s fitness facility, Natural Elements, has announced a special fitness program to combat obesity, a growing grievance amongst many individuals of Dubai. The special fitness regime known as H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Sports and Physical fitness program and started by Dubai Police, was recently incorporated into Le Méridien Dubai fitness offerings, making it the city’s first hotel to offer this facility. 

More... [772 views]

Hotel Indigo™ set to open two new properties before year's end

InterContinental Hotels Group will introduce two new Hotel Indigo properties by the end of 2005, Hotel Indigo Houston and Hotel Indigo Chicago-Palatine.  Once opened, this will bring the brand’s total to four hotels in just over a year after its first hotel opened. 

More... [588 views]

Culinaire Malaysia 2005 - The Quest to Find the Best

The Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) is proud to join hands with the Chefs Association of Malaysia (CAM) and The Malaysian Food & Beverage Executives Association (MFBEA), in organizing Culinaire Malaysia 2005 from 21-24 September 2005 in KLCC Convention Centre.  The inaugural Culinaire Malaysia was first held in 1993 alongside the Food & Hotel Malaysia Exhibition and ever since then, the bi-annual event has been held in conjunction with FHM 

More... [702 views]

Swissôtel Opens in Moscow

After a year of eager anticipation from the public, Swissôtel Krasnye Holmy Moscow opened on 18 July 2005. The opening events started in the morning with a tightly packed press conference held at the hotel’s executive lounge, located on the 19th floor and boasts spectacular views of downtown Moscow

More... [670 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief....

More... [1275 views]

Hotel execs top leisure sector pay league

According to a new study by executive remuneration specialist Halliwell Consulting, the heads of hotel groups enjoy the highest chief executive salaries in the UK leisure industry. The FT reports Halliwell’s figures show chief executives at FTSE-listed hotel groups earned a median salary of £572,918 in 2004, well ahead of the £367,500 across the whole leisure sector.....

More... [841 views]

Accor again refuses comment on reports CEO Espalioux to be sacked

An Accor SA official said the company had 'no comment' on the most recent series of press reports claiming that chief executive Jean-Marc Espalioux is being forced to step down. Financial daily Les Echos said today that the company's board of directors has already begun the search for Espalioux's successor, under pressure from shareholders unhappy with the underperformance of Accor shares in recent years.

More... [791 views]

Hotels sell in-room fitness services to time-starved business travelers

More... [866 views]

Luxury hotel to honour Marlon Brando

A new luxury hotel being built in French Polynesia will honour deceased US film star Marlon Brando and will be named "The Brando", the Tahiti tourism authority has said.  "The Brando" will be situated on a small island in the Tetiaroa-atoll, about 42 km north of Tahiti. The atoll once belonged to the film star who died last year.

More... [655 views]

Terrific tree-house hotels take a bough!

Unique arboreal dwellings at low cost, from the Pacific Northwest to Brazil, Costa Rica & Turkey

More... [1004 views]

London hotels show robust performance for July

Business travel remains buoyant but weekend occupancy levels dip. London hotels revenue per available room (revPAR) was down only 5% in July compared with 2004 figures, according to Daily HotelBenchmark by Deloitte.

More... [606 views]

New Primer Educates Hoteliers On Guest Data Privacy

Hoteliers can now access cutting-edge privacy practices compiled by the nation's top experts on behalf of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA). "Principles of Privacy" provides a clear, current overview of what's required to protect privacy in today's hospitality industry.

More... [573 views]

Conrad Hotels announces management agreement for new luxury hotel in Jakarta

Conrad® Hotels, the luxury brand of the Hilton Family of Hotels reached an agreement on July 22nd with Indonesian company PT. Majumakmur Arthasentosa to manage the new Conrad Jakarta. 

More... [771 views]

PATA prepares to release Total Tourism Survey

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has confirmed that its Total Tourism Survey will be released at the start of October 2005. The survey, which covers all strategic factors impacting travel and tourism in Asia Pacific, will be entitled, "Asia Pacific Travel and Tourism: The Industry Speaks".

More... [517 views]

Sandals, Beaches again voted top all-inclusive by Canadian travel agents

For the sixth consecutive year, Sandals and Beaches Resorts have emerged the preferred all-inclusive resorts among Canadian travel agents.

More... [591 views]

Tourism Australia launches new division

In recognition of the value and importance of the business and major event industries, Tourism Australia (TA) will establish a new  Tourism Events Australia division that focuses on marketing Australia as a business and major events destination TA Chairman, Tim Fischer said today. "I am pleased to announce that the Manager of the new TEA will be Sue Thomson. Sue has over 15 years experience in the tourism industry, and most recently worked for Gold Coast Tourism as Marketing Manager and acting CEO," Tim Fischer said.

More... [526 views]

Young Japanese close the drawer on poky capsule hotel

Tokyo: For generations of Japanese "salarymen" a night in a capsule hotel was almost a rite of passage. But the younger generation is rejecting the option of sleeping in a coffin-sized hole in the wall in favour of a far cheaper and more convenient option: the all-night internet cafe. Cafes specifically designed to attract overnight customers have proliferated in the past two years.

More... [831 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief....

More... [1306 views]

View From The Bottom Different Than From The Top

During the recent recovery of the U.S. lodging industry, much attention was given to the growth in top-line performance measurements. Numerous articles have been produced exalting the growth in occupancy and average daily room rates (ADR). After reading these analyses, one might think that the hotel industry lives on RevPAR alone. Not mentioned nearly as frequently are the gains in bottom-line profits being achieved by U.S. hotels.
By Robert Mandelbaum, PKF Hospitality Research

More... [793 views]

Hotels clamour to serve underwater

Having exhausted all the exotic possibilities on Earth, high-end hoteliers are now experimenting with the life aquatic. In April, Hilton introduced what it says is the first undersea restaurant in the world. Fish can watch you eat their cousins -- and the menu is heavy on seafood -- at the aquarium-style dining room that seats just 14, five metres deep in the Maldives (a series of low-lying island off southern India).

More... [834 views]

Hotels, resorts pile on the cabana extras

Hotels and resorts worldwide are offering more poolside and seaside cabana amenities, with everything from concierge services and moonlight massages to flat-screen televisions and Internet access.

More... [902 views]

Top London hotel to have wing for women only

A five-star hotel in London is to open a wing catering only for women guests. Men will be barred from the seven floors of the wing, which contains 68 rooms redesigned with women in mind. While gentlemen’s clubs providing male-only overnight accommodation are a long-standing tradition, there are few similar facilities for women.

More... [1399 views]

Wyndham International Reports Second Quarter 2005 Results

Exceeding its quarterly guidance, Wyndham's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) on a comparable property basis was $62.0 million, an increase of 24.0 percent versus the same period last year. Wyndham's quarterly EBITDA results exclude a $5.9 million accrual related to a judgment associated with a lawsuit filed in 2001.

More... [569 views]

Goodbye Dolly, hello Snuppy

Scientists in Seoul break the hound barrier, but it’s a bone of contention with Yeoh Siew Hoon

More... [640 views]

Wynn Resorts opens with highest room rates on the Las Vegas Strip

After opening April 28 with a blistering first five weeks, the $2.7 billion Wynn Las Vegas megaresort late Monday reported quarterly results that are more in line with what analysts have been expecting. Some experts say they expect profit to widen in the coming months as the resort begins to attract a loyal following.

More... [780 views]

Posh hotel has pondweed on the menu

At Chicago's newest downtown "hotel," guests can swim out, but will they ever leave?

More... [832 views]

400 flee from burning hotel

A huge fire devastated a luxury hotel in the German Alps on Sunday, forcing 400 guests to flee, some of them in their pyjamas. Ten people, including two firefighters, were slightly injured.

More... [1109 views]

24 million tourists visited Egypt in last four years

A recent study conducted by the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics showed that the number of tourists  who visited Egypt in the last four years stood at 24 million. The total number of tourists surged up from 4.7 million tourists in 2001 to 5.2 million in 2002, 6 million tourists in 2003 and then to 8.2 million in 2004.

More... [552 views]

The Government of Canada unveils a plaque commemorating the national historic significance of Shaw's Hotel

"With the designation of Shaw's Hotel, we are recognizing the importance of the early development and the on-going evolution of Canada's tourism industry," said Minister Dion. "For 145 years, Shaw's Hotel has grown and adapted its services to meet the changing demands of the tourists who visit PEI each summer, but it has never strayed from its original promise of providing a refreshing rest where one can escape the rush and noise of everyday life."

More... [498 views]

Expedia deepens its Asia Pacific supply team to support its rapid growth in the region

Expedia, Inc., one of the world’s leading online travel services companies, announced today three key additions to its Asia Pacific hotel and destination service supply organization with appointments in Hong Kong, Sydney and Tokyo.

More... [865 views]

Langham Hotels International Appoints Gerilyn Horan As Director Of Global Sales – North America

Langham Hotels International is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Gerilyn Horan as Director of Global Sales - North America heading up the group's global sales office in New York.

More... [745 views]

Occupancy rate of Metro Manila hotels rises to 72%

Occupancy rate of Metro Manila hotels rose to 72.3 percent in the first five months of 2005 from 69.1 percent a year ago as foreign visitor arrivals posted double-digit growth this year.

More... [668 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief...

More... [1340 views]

Hilton Grows and Glows

Hilton Hotels Corp. expands, with agents among the beneficiaries. With eight brands comprising the Hilton Hotels Corp. portfolio, it's hard to imagine how the company continues to find room to expand. But with close to 2,220 properties currently in the market, Hilton Hotels is maintaining solid growth, with plans to add 115 to 130 hotels per year going forward. In fact, Hilton executives say the chain will end 2004 with nearly 2,500 properties.

More... [893 views]

Accor shares rally on winds of management change

Shares in Europe's biggest hotel group Accor rallied on Friday on a fresh burst of optimism over a potential management shakeout at Europe's biggest hotel group.  The group that runs the Sofitel, Novotel and Ibis chains has declined to comment on speculation that the mandate of 53-year-old Chairman Jean-Marc Espalioux will not be renewed when it expires in January 2006.  Separately, U.S. real estate fund Colony Capital, which has fueled talk of change with its $1 billion euro ($1.24 billion) investment in Accor, said it has no plans to make an offer for the French company.

More... [971 views]

Market Metrix Announces Second Quarter 2005 Hospitality Index Results;

Customer Loyalty with Hotels Drops for First Time Since 9-11. Market Metrix, LLC, the leading provider of market research services for the hospitality industry, today announced results of the Market Metrix Hospitality Index (MMHI) for the second quarter of this year. Ritz-Carlton, JetBlue Airways and Enterprise Rent-A-Car ranked number one in hotel, airline and rental car industry customer satisfaction, respectively.

More... [613 views]

Australia is the world's favorite nation brand

The second Anholt-GMI Nation Brands Index (NBI) report ranks the brand power and appeal of 25 developed and developing nations  and is based on the opinion of 10, 000 consumers from 10 countries. Australia, a new entry in the NBI, has replaced Sweden as the world`s strongest nation brand. Canada is ranked number two, Switzerland three and the UK is fourth...

More... [888 views]

Hospitality Leaders Discuss Marketing Challenges at Roundtable Sponsored by Cornell's Center for Hospitality Research

Marketing executives from leading hospitality companies and marketing professors from the Cornell Hotel School gathered recently at the School to discuss the challenges they face in building and marketing their brands.

More... [1778 views]

General Manager of Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal appointed Chairperson of IHI Hungary Rt.

Ms Cornelia Kausch, until recently general manager of the five-star Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal in Budapest, Hungary, has been appointed Chairperson of IHI Hungary Rt., the hotel’s owning company. IHI Hungary Rt. is in turn a wholly owned subsidiary of International Hotel Investments plc (IHI), a public entity in which leading Maltese hotel company Corinthia Group holds a majority interest.

More... [632 views]

Questions To Ask When Recruiting Online

Employers looking to advertise on a recruitment website in today’s market can face a daunting task. With so many sites available and new ones popping up every week, how can one know which site to use? Do you select one that is generalist or industry-specific? On how many boards should you be posting open positions? Are you getting the best results for the money you are spending? There are several key questions you can ask the service provider to determine if that job board is right for your company’s needs. By Douglas Rosen, HVS International

More... [778 views]

Orient-Express Hotels Announces Second Quarter Net Earnings of $18.5 Million, Up 43% Over Prior Year

Six Months Net Earnings Up 104% to $16.9 Million.  Orient-Express Hotels Ltd. (NYSE: OEH, www.orient-express.com), owners of 49 deluxe hotel, restaurant, tourist train and river cruise properties in 25 countries, today announced its results for the second quarter and six months ended June 30, 2005.

More... [541 views]

Saigontourist to upgrade Vietnamese hotel ops to 5-star status

The Saigontourist Holding Company (Saigontourist)  plans to invest US$600 million in upgrading its subsidiary hotels to reach international five-star standard. Currently the company is focusing on arranging eco-tourist, marine, and MICE tours to attract a larger number of tourists

More... [589 views]

Hampton opens 9 hotels in July 2005

Hampton, the national brand of more than 1,300 mid-priced Hampton Inn® and Hampton Inn & Suites® hotels, has opened nine properties in July 2005-- representing 682 new rooms. 

More... [558 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief...

More... [1207 views]

“THAT’S SO JACQUES”

The Hospitality Industry has spawned many ancillary ventures, aimed at informing the Visitor, guiding them gently to venues of choice, removing the vicarious nature of travel – prompting, proselytizing, promoting, and promulgating everything a sophisticated Visitor will need to consider in their travels.  One such enterprise, which recently has been written up in both the New York Times and the Boston Globe, features  the principals of the Company going about evaluating our Hospitality businesses in several major US cities. By John Hendrie, CEO, Hospitality Performance, Inc.  

More... [732 views]

InterContinental beds down bidders

Tender closed for the Australian 10-hotel InterContinental hotel portfolio, expected to fetch$350 million to $400 million. GE Real Estate, Eureka Capital Partners and a consortium between Thakral Holdings and the Singapore Government's GIC Real Estate were among the four bidders short-listed in the sales process. Each group declined to comment on the deal.

More... [769 views]

How to make us happy

More... [826 views]

Canada - the country's your oyster

Why it's still one of the top ten travel choices. Tourists don’t need to make a world trip when they can find everything in one country. The incredible diversity of Canada and its population provide every outdoor adventure and cultural experience imaginable.

More... [745 views]

Hotel's glimmers of faded glory set to go out forever

Once the glittering domain of movie stars, and later scene of one of the great political tragedies of the 20th century, the Ambassador Hote In Los Angelesl appears ready for its final curtain.

More... [681 views]

Tourism lifts spirits at Indian hoteliers

The hoteliers are set to extend the gains amid predictions that growth in the nation's tourism industry will be the third-fastest in the world, said R.K. Gupta, a fund manager at Credit Capital Asset Management in New Delhi. India's 7 percent pace of economic expansion is drawing more foreign business travelers and gives locals more money to spend on holidays, he said.

More... [601 views]

"Green" Hotels Association Impacts Entire Hospitality Industry

"Green" Hotels Association® has managed to move the massive hospitality industry toward environmentalism by making guests aware of the impact and empowering them to make a choice. GHA has presented enough money-saving ideas to hoteliers to prove that conservation saves money. GHA has proven to the hospitality industry that conservation is wanted and expected by hotel guests.

More... [812 views]

BTG-Jianguo Hotels and Resorts Selects TravelCLICK’s iHotelier Central Reservation System

China’s second largest hotel management group signs multi-year agreement for website and GDS connectivity

More... [652 views]

China is becoming important business travel market

China's rapid business travel market is providing more and more opportunities for the whole tourism industry, said Huang Quanrong, vice president of Reed Exhibition Group.

More... [752 views]

Travelocity Editors Name Top 10 Less-Traveled Beaches for Final Summer Getaways and Beyond

Beach-goers swarm popular seaside getaways all year long looking for everything from rest and relaxation to action and adventure. Last year alone the Travel Industry Association reported that 105 million people headed to the beach, prompting a key question for vacationers: Where can solitude-seekers find their moment in the sun among the crowds?

More... [817 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief.....

More... [1239 views]

World's Most Expensive Hotels 2005

The most expensive hotels in the world cater to a tough, albeit well-heeled, crowd. Rap stars, tycoons, royalty and CEOs know the difference between the sublime and the merely impressive. What's more, if the champagne is not properly chilled, the thread count on the sheets inadequate, the luggage not brought up with alacrity or the morning coffee served anything less than piping hot, they may take their Black cards and Gucci shoes elsewhere.  By Sophia Banay , Forbes.com

More... [2973 views]

Middle East hotels continue winning streak in first half of 2005

Hotels across the Middle East have continued their winning streak during the first six months of 2005 with revenue per available room (revPAR) increasing 24.5%, according to latest results from the HotelBenchmark Survey by Deloitte. Given the continuing terrorism activities to hit the area, this performance is all the more remarkable.

More... [697 views]

Great Expectations! How Well Do You Track Reality?

In the hospitality industry, expectations mean a great deal. Feedback in the form of guest surveys is one of the absolute best methods of insuring that expectations are being met. Webster's defines expectation as "anticipation," or "a thing looked forward to." We all have them! Some of us expect to become millionaires, others expect to lead a wholesome, healthy life, while others simply expect to go to work each day, get paid, be reasonably happy and lead a "normal" life.  By Gene Ference, HVS

More... [818 views]

Hotels Float Rate Change: Chains Attempt To Expand Dynamic Pricing To Corporate Travel

Firmly in the driver's seat this negotiating season, hoteliers are offering new pricing approaches that move buyers away from fixed annual or seasonal prices in favor of dynamic corporate rates. Some buyers are wary about any seismic shift in pricing models and shared concerns that dynamic corporate hotel rates would make budgeting more difficult and lead to higher overall expenses.

More... [1263 views]

Banyan Tree Chief Speaks About Environmental Commitment

In 1985, Ho Kwon Ping, chairman of Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts, was walking along a beach in Phuket with his wife when he decided on impulse to buy a contaminated piece of land to develop in the future. Fast forward to 2005, and the 'contaminated tin mine' is a bustling poolside resort, the first of luxury resorts and hotels developer Banyan Tree's impressive portfolio, while the land bought for the summer house continues to sit undeveloped.

More... [716 views]

Hong Kong's Landmark Mandarin eyes room rate record

Landmark Mandarin Oriental, the deluxe boutique hotel opening soon in Centra Hong Kongl, is pinning its ambition of setting fresh room rate records in Hong Kong on stronger demand for tourist beds during the rest of this year.  Management is confident of achieving an average of $ 3,300 per room/night, or US$ 423, this year, according to director of sales and marketing, David Kwok. The 113-room hotel will receive its first guests on August 24.

More... [708 views]

Hard Rock Hotels expanding

After the successful launch of its top-end condominium project, The Met, in Bangkok, Singapore-based Hotel Properties Ltd (HPL), is looking to strengthen its Hard Rock Hotel brand with two new developments in Phuket and Pattaya.

More... [731 views]

UK hotels enjoy strong first half

The first six months of this year has seen room revenue per available room, a standard industry measure of sales, improve by 3.7 per cent in the UK. As expected, occupancy was broadly flat with a 0.1 percentage point change for the half-year. The increase in revpar was driven by a 3.9 per cent improvement in room rate.

More... [524 views]

Jim Alderman Named Senior Vice President Acquisitions and Development for Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

Jim Alderman was recently named senior vice president of acquisitions and development for Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants.  In this role, he will be responsible for directing and coordinating all Kimpton property acquisitions, negotiations of management contracts, and identifying new hotel and restaurant opportunities in the southeast and southwest.

More... [649 views]

Accor – Strong presence in Indonesia

Accor in Indonesia has established itself as the largest and most dynamic international hotel management company in Indonesia in just over 10 years .
The company opened its Jakarta regional sales office in 1993, and began managing the Ibis Kemayoran the following year in 1994. This started Accor`s impressive expansion to its current portfolio of 31 hotels and serviced apartments in key resort and business destinations around the country.

More... [621 views]

New York City Hotel Rooftops Surge in Popularity with their Bars, Pools, Bird's Eye Views

"Rooftops are the most underdeveloped real estate in the city," said Stephen B. Jacobs, a Manhattan architect who claims to have invented the hotel rooftop as gathering place when he put one atop the Gotham Hotel, now the Peninsula, about 25 years ago. In the past five years, he has designed several others, including those at the Gansevoort, Library Hotel and Hotel Giraffe.

More... [838 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief....

More... [1141 views]

Mary Gostelow chooses 10 GREAT SPAS OF THE WORLD

This month, in WOWtraveler.net - the knowledgeable luxury online magazine that is truly global - Mary Gostelow chooses ten great hotel spas.

More... [1971 views]

The Interview: Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal - success is the 'Ultimate Kick'

   The bond between a Billionaire and his '100 wives'   His investment decisions move markets.

More... [2210 views]

WTTC issues forecast of the impact of Sharm-el-Sheikh bombs

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is appalled and saddened by the bombings in and around the Egyptian resort, Sharm-el-Sheikh , on Saturday morning. We offer our sincerest condolences to those affected by this horrific attack.

More... [695 views]

Hotel de la Paix Siem Reap officially opens

Hôtel de la Paix, which sets the standards for chic design, opened its doors in Siem Reap with a soft launch on 25 July, 2005. A member of Small Luxury Hotels, Hôtel de la Paix brings a totally unique guest experience to Cambodia.

More... [677 views]

Tickets? Check.... Hotel? Check.....

Choice Hotels International and the Ticket Reserve offer sports fans advanced access to hotel rooms for major events.

More... [534 views]

The Downtown San Francisco Marriott Hotel Wins Gold Key Award for 2005

Secaucus, NJ-Meeting & Conventions magazine recently announced the winners of its prestigious hotel meeting & convention Gold Key Award for 2005. This annual award is bestowed upon the world’s finest meeting and convention hotel properties. The downtown San Francisco Marriott Luxury Hotel was nominated for this award of excellence by the readers of M&C, who based their votes on the overall professionalism and quality of this San Francisco hotel.

More... [536 views]

Hilton Latin America Launches K.I.D.S. Charity Program

Hilton Latin America today launches the charity program K.I.D.S. – Kindness in Donations and Services – at all Hilton hotels in Latin America. The program, implemented throughout Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela, raises funds to support children’s charitable organizations in these countries

More... [553 views]

"Tasting Australia" showcases World's Culinary Talent in Adelaide

Australia's celebrated international food festival ‘Tasting Australia’ which is held in Adelaide, the state capital of South Australia, showcases some of the world’s top culinary talent and cuisines at a festival featuring 40 public and private events from October 21 to 30, 2005.  Attractions range from cookery demonstrations featuring top Australian and overseas chefs, wine and beer experiences, celebrity luncheons and dinners, conferences, talks and panel discussions, tastings and masterclasses. 

More... [511 views]

First easyHotel open in London

EasyJet founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou today opened his first no-frills easyHotel in London. Prices start from £20 for the 34 rooms at Lexham Gardens in Earls Court, west London.

More... [935 views]

Le Meridien opens its first hotel in the Kingdom of Nepal

Global hotel group Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts continues its global expansion with the opening of its first resort hotel in Nepal, Le Méridien Kathmandu, Gokarna Forest Golf Resort & Spa.  

More... [706 views]

Shangri-La sets its "Eyes on the Prize" with "2008 Shangri-La Hospitality Committee"

 In anticipation of the world's spotlight turning to Beijing during the 2008 Olympics, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has recently appointed a dedicated Olympics director of sales and marketing and in-house 2008 Shangri-La Hospitality Committee, comprised of top management from the group's four Beijing properties, and one in Qingdao (site of the Olympics sailing competitions).

More... [631 views]

Working 9 to 5 – there’s more to life than just making a living!

Wotif.com survey reveals happy workers are maintaining a healthy work/leisure balance by taking frequent getaways In a survey of customers’ quality of life, Wotif.com, has found that in general people are happy with their work and are maintaining a healthy work/leisure balance by taking frequent getaways. 

More... [1151 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief....

More... [1261 views]

“The lights are on, but no one is home!”

That old saw is an apt statement about the state of Hospitality in certain areas of the US today.  Operators are tired, beaten up, spent.  Their energies are internally directed – staffing, budgets, complaints, legislation, etc. – whereas, the external focus on the Visitor and Guest Experience has become quite secondary.  “Just let me make it through the day” or “I can’t be bothered” are the laments. Our true calling is controlled now by the numbers not by the virtues of a Host. By John R. Hendrie, CEO, Hospitality Performance, Inc.  

More... [1112 views]

Sweet suites: What money buys

For the traveler who wants to peek into the lifestyle of the rich and famous, five star/luxury hotel suites and private bungalows offer a brief, but important opportunity to live the life that money buys. Presented with a choice between a room and a suite – the absolute correct answer is to reserve a suite, not just any suite, but the most luxurious available. This is not a time to worry about a budget.

More... [891 views]

Go with the flow and stop worrying about the sandflies

Yeoh Siew Hoon is all at sea trying to explain that she is not bragging about her sojourn in France

More... [723 views]

Spanish Hotel group Barcelo to Open 5 New Hotels in Turkey

While the tourism sector continues to break visitors and income records in Turkey, local and foreign tourism operators have hastened their investments in Turkey. Accepted as one of the 30 leading hotel chains in the world, the Spanish Barcelo Group plans to increase its number of hotels in Turkey to six by adding five new hotels.

More... [778 views]

Hawaii: Hotel chains enjoy higher revenues per room in Q2

Hotel companies doing business in Hawaii had a profitable second quarter from both hotel and time-share operations, according to semi-annual results announced this week.

More... [560 views]

Corinthia Financial Controllers meet in Malta

Corinthia Hotels International recently held its third International Financial Controllers Conference at the Corinthia Jerma Palace Hotel in Malta, the company’s home base.  

More... [834 views]

Shangri-la plans Macau leisure hotel

Luxury hotel operator Shangri-la Asia plans to open a new hotel in Macau, but it's unlikely to include a casino, and would instead offer auxiliary leisure services, cashing in on the territory's gaming-induced tourism boom. "The opportunities for new hotels in Macau are obviously driven by the casinos, but a hotel doesn't necessarily have to have a casino,'' Shangri-la chief operating officer, Symon Bridle, said. "We're looking very closely at the opportunities available.''

More... [679 views]

Hotels on the Web: Booking for groups--and a new gadget

Booked a hotel room online lately? Statistics would increasingly point to an answer of "yes" to that question, as this corner of the Internet travel world continues to ride the boom that began a few years back. But, as you are likely also aware, things move awfully fast in this electronic universe.

More... [1740 views]

M-Resort Hotel poised to go international

Malaysia's home-grown hotel group, M-Resort Hotel Sdn Bhd, is acquiring new properties and mulls going international by engaging a major hotel management chain. The company, which owns and manages the flagship M Suites Hotel in Johor Baru, recently acquired a 3.2ha site in Desaru, Johor, to be developed into a new resort.

More... [631 views]

Singapore records 8.2% increase in Visitor Arrivals in June 2005

Singapore posted S$2.48 billion in tourism receipts from January to March 2005, a 16% increase over the same period in 2004.  From January to June 2005, Singapore welcomed 4,187,428 visitors, registering a 8.2% growth over the same period a year ago.

More... [551 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief....

More... [1195 views]

Start With Your Story

During the question and answer portion of one of my recent presentations, an attendee asked, “I appreciate all the GEMS you offer, but where do I start? Where is the first step?”  GEM # 1 may be Know Thy Audience, but ground zero is your story. We are products of our individual stories. There are forces, be they people or events, that have formed us, motivated us to be where we are today. All of us do what we do because of the stories we have. It is those I want you to access. By Rick Hendrie, Chief Experience Officer, Remarkable Branding Inc.  

More... [866 views]

Starwood to Open 50 Full-Service Hotels This Year Worldwide

Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide reported today during its quarterly conference call with analysts and media that it signed 26 full service hotel management and franchise contracts, representing approximately 6,200 rooms, and opened nine new hotels and resorts. In addition, the company said it expects to open approximately 50 new full-service hotels and resorts, representing 10,000 rooms around the world this year.

More... [1179 views]

Last month's most viewed Newsletter articles....

Last month's most viewed Newsletter articles....  check it out..

More... [1070 views]

San Francisco Art Hotel Installs First 24/7 Room Camera

Setting a new precedent in hospitality, Hotel des Arts in downtown San Francisco has commissioned conceptual artist Jonathon Keats to fit a 4th floor hotel room with a custom- built low-light camera. Other amenities include a king-size bed, a mini- fridge, and a clock-radio.

More... [731 views]

Paris hotel rates, a real asset for the French capital

This survey, conducted by MKG Consulting on behalf of the Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau, is concerned with hotel rack rates in three principal sectors: budget, corresponding to the French 2* category; mid-range or 3* and top of the range or 4* and 4*L. Based on the data provided by 400 hotels polled in twenty major international cities and tourist destinations, the conclusions are distinctly positive.

More... [654 views]

A Hacker Games the Hotel

A vulnerability in many hotel television infrared systems can allow a hacker to obtain guests' names and their room numbers from the billing system.  It can also let someone read the e-mail of guests who use web mail through the TV, putting business travelers at risk of corporate espionage. And it can allow an intruder to add or delete charges on a hotel guest's bill or watch pornographic films and other premium content on their hotel TV without paying for it.

More... [753 views]

Shangri-La Hotels receives "China Hotel Industry Pioneer Award"

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, was recently recognized for its contributions to the China hotel industry by receiving the first annual "China Hotel Industry Pioneer Award" during the China Hotel Development and Financing Seminar in Beijing.The China Hotel Development and Financing Seminar was conducted by Horwath Asia Pacific, Sonnenblick-Goldman and the China Tourist Hotels Association. 

More... [675 views]

Raffles Holdings says Q2 profit rises 139 pct

Singapore's Raffles Holdings Ltd. , which last week sold off its hotels and resorts business, said on Thursday that its second-quarter net profit rose 139 percent from the same period last year. Raffles, 60-percent owned by CapitaLand Ltd. , Southeast Asia's largest property group, said total net profit for the three months to June 30 was S$22.8 million ($13.7 million) compared with S$9.6 million in the same period in 2004.

More... [556 views]

Hawaii hotels ring up record revenue

 In the first half of this year, Hawaii hotels have generated record room revenue: $1.45 billion.  The statewide average daily room rate for the first half of 2005 rose 6.8 percent to a record $161.51 a night, Hospitality Advisors LLC reported Wednesday. Higher rates did not curb room demand, which rose 2.3 percent to 9 million room nights.

More... [523 views]

Star Line Up for Second Annual World Gourmet Summit

Celebrity Chef Martin Yan, Corporate Executive Chef of the Taj Hotels & Resorts Hemant Oberoi, Bartholomew Broadbent, world-renowned authority on Port and Madeira, and Indian writer and cookbook author Jiggs Kalra are among the star line up of master chefs, winemakers and other experts in the field who will present at this year’s World Gourmet Summit (WGS) in Las Vegas, November 15-20.  In its second year, this food and beverage extravaganza is based on the highly successful WGS events held annually in St. Moritz, Switzerland and in Singapore.

More... [708 views]

Marco Polo Signs a Second Hotel in the Philippines, The Marco Polo Plaza, Cebu

The Marco Polo Hotel Group today announced the management of a second property in the Philippines – The Marco Polo Plaza, located in Cebu City, a major business and leisure destination in the Republic.

More... [622 views]

Hilton signs its First Golf & Spa Resort in South Korea

Hilton International and Emerson Pacific have signed an agreement for Hilton Worldwide Resorts (HWR) to manage a property in South Korea. The Hilton Namhae Golf & Spa Resort, located on the southernmost peninsula, is the first resort in Korea to come under the Hilton brand.

More... [509 views]

Traders Hotel Dubai puts emergency standards to the test

Traders Hotel, Dubai put its fire and safety standards to the test today with a pre-arranged full evacuation of the 250-room four star deluxe hotel.  The Security Department of Traders Hotel, Dubai conducted the evacuation in full co-ordination with the local emergency authorities.  

More... [657 views]

Hotel News In Brief

Hotel industry news in brief....

More... [1873 views]