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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: January 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 31, 2006Raffles owners buy Fairmont HotelsFairmont announces agreement to be acquired by Kingdom Hotels and Colony Capital. Fairmont and Raffles to Combine, Creating a US$5.5 Billion Global Luxury Hotel Leader. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Inc. today announced that it has entered into an Acquisition Agreement whereby a Canadian company owned by Kingdom Hotels International (“Kingdom”) and Colony Capital (“Colony”) will acquire all of Fairmont’s outstanding common shares at a price of US$45.00 per share in cash. The total value of this transaction, including debt and the combination with Raffles, is expected to be approximately $US5.5 billion (or US$3.9 billion, without giving effect to the Raffles combination). More... [2177 views] Divining Needs Of Travelers: Don't AskThe next time you walk into a hotel lobby or check in for a flight at an airport, look over your shoulder. You may notice someone watching your every move. There's no need to be alarmed. That someone may simply be a consultant hired by the hotel or airline to help make travel easier and more enjoyable. More... [955 views] Hilton chief faces shareholder flak over hotel sell-offSir Ian Robinson, the chairman of Hilton Group, faced a barrage of criticism yesterday from private shareholders over the decision to sell the company's hotels arm for £3.3bn and to turn Hilton into a pure betting business. The sale to the US firm Hilton Hotels Corp, announced in December, reunites the Hilton US and international hotels businesses after 41 years and the British company with its Ladbrokes betting arm. More... [1114 views] What your worst customers teach you about loyaltyCustomers—even bad ones—are our best loyalty teachers. In fact, the lessons gleaned from "problem" customers are often rich and long-lasting. Consider the following less-than-ideal customer types and some of the loyalty-making insights they provide. More... [1718 views] E&Y: Hotel boom to continue"Last year saw a doubling of financing activity for hotel real estate in the commercial mortgage-backed securities sector and we see another strong year ahead," said Michael Fishbin, the consulting firm's national director of hospitality services. Of the more than $100 billion held by real estate private equity funds for investment in the real estate sector, as much as $20 billion will likely be channeled into lodging investments this year, Fishbin predicted Wednesday in his company's 2006 U.S. Lodging Report. More... [658 views] Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels Survey Reports 65% of US Hotel Investors Intend to Buy in Short TermFirm publishes latest Hotel Investor Sentiment Survey More... [648 views] InterContinental Hotels Group Appoints Ronen Nissenbaum, Regional Vice President Operations, South Central RegionIn his new role, Mr. Nissenbaum oversees operations at InterContinental properties located in Austin, Dallas, Houston and New Orleans. He also continues to serve as general manager of the brand's flagship property, the InterContinental Buckhead. More... [782 views] Jerry Gibson Named General Manager, Grand Hyatt New YorkA four-time GM with resort experience, Jerry Gibson brings new energy to the city life by joining the Grand Hyatt New York as General Manager. Previously General Manager of Hyatt Lake Las Vegas in Nevada, Mr. Gibson arrives with 25 years of Hyatt experience to oversee the recently renovated 1,311-room property More... [779 views] Marriott to get new Hawaii chiefStan Brown, Marriott International's top executive in Honolulu, has been promoted to area vice president of hotel properties in China and nearby countries More... [709 views] Domina Hotel Group Appoints Jean Patrick Thiry Managing DirectorDomina Hotel Group has appointed Jean Patrick Thiry Managing Director. In his new role Mr Thiry will be responsible for the commercial and operational aspects of the Group and will be based in Milan Headquarter.
More... [769 views] Philadelphia Hotels are booking renovation splurgeA healthy year in the hotel industry has helped spur an estimated $50 million in renovations and upgrades at Center City hotels. Hotel experts say it's the largest period of reinvestment in more than five years, since the hotel-building boom of the late 1990s, when Philadelphia's then-Mayor Ed Rendell challenged hotel developers to build 2000 rooms by the year 2000. More... [633 views] That's Business Travel Show BusinessThe Business Travel Show is THE event for anyone who books and buys company travel, business trips and meetings. Th e three-day exhibition and seminar programme, which takes place at London’s Olympia from January 31st to February 2nd, introduces visitors to thousands of valuable contacts, hundreds of new products and stacks of practical advice and information – all priceless tools for slashing the time and money spent on their company’s business travel. More... [519 views] Spanish Grupo Pinero To Invest $48 Mln in Dominican RepublicSpanish leisure group Grupo Pinero will invest 39.3 mln euro ($48 mln) in the construction of a hotel and the refurbishment of three other hotels in Samana, eastern Dominican Republic. More... [1094 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 30, 2006Healthcare can learn from the Hospitality industryWe understand that the Visitor Experience in a Destination area is based upon the performance of the Destination components – not only the Hospitality related businesses but also the other contributors, such as Taxis, Police, even street vendors. Another, often forgotten player, is our community Hospital or Medical Center, which although meeting unbelievable standards and sanctions, often misses the mark when it comes to Customer Service. Our Visitor does remember that Experience. By John R. Hendrie More... [905 views] Marriott realigns Asia Pacific Regional LeadershipMarriott International has realigned its Asia Pacific regional leadership with immediate effect realinging and expanding the responsibility of Stan Brown, Ed Hubenette and Craig Smith. More... [1393 views] Hotels courting new generationM arriott wants customers to think style and comfort. W Hotel is appealing to those who want to escape. Four Points by Sheraton promises honest, uncomplicated comfort. In a crowded market place with Web sites making it easier than ever to get deals, hotel chains are under greater pressure to make themselves stand out. More... [1032 views] Accor: 2005 Revenue: Up 7.9% to EUR7,622 Million Accor's consolidated revenue rose by 7.9% to EUR7,622 million for the year ended December 31, 2005. More... [654 views] Life as an innkeeperMore Americans trading corporate jobs for hospitality business. More... [1059 views] Hotel Valuation Is a Taxing IssueAre two hotels, comparable in size, location, age and condition, worth the same if one is a Ritz-Carlton and the other is an unbranded unknown? They should be when it comes to property taxes, the hotel industry says. Not so fast, says the tax assessor. More... [668 views] ALIS Recognizes 2005 Outstanding Hotel Industry AchievementsWinners of the ALIS Awards were announced during the Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS) at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza in Los Angeles, Calif. Co-hosted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) and Burba Hotel Network (BHN), the ALIS awards are presented for outstanding performance in four categories. More... [579 views] InterContinental Hong Kong Launches Asia's Most Spectacular Presidential SuiteAt 7,000 square feet, the 5-bedroom Presidential Suite is the largest in Hong Kong. The suite was constructed at a cost of US$2.5 million and took 253 days and 76,120 man-hours to build. More... [1199 views] Construction costs seen keeping hotel prices highSoaring U.S. construction costs, as well as high land prices and favorable financing, are likely to keep prices for hotels strong for at least the next few years, hotel owners said. More... [719 views] 18th Annual Hotel Investment Conference Announces Speakers for March 12-14 EventOfficials of the Hotel Investment Conference announced key speakers for the 18th annual Hotel Investment Conference scheduled for March 12-14 at Atlanta's Crowne Plaza Ravinia. The Hotel Investment Conference is one of the industry's four major annual nationwide events designed specifically for hotel owners and investors. More... [565 views] La Quinta Announces Senior Management AppointmentsLa Quinta announced that Wayne B. Goldberg has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer and Alan L. Tallis has been appointed President and Chief Development Officer to lead the company following the close of the acquisition by affiliates of The Blackstone Group on January 25, 2006. More... [560 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 27, 2006Kitchen ConfidentialHave you got what it takes to be a master chef? Yeoh Siew Hoon is thinking of giving it a go. More... [1150 views] Starwood announces several SVP and VP appointments in the EAME DvisionWith the successful acquisition of the Le Méridien brand and the company’s strategic evolution, Starwood is currently undergoing one of the most significant growth initiatives. To cope with this growth, several key executive appointments have been announced, all reporting to Roeland Vos More... [2811 views] Shangri-La's buy of Paris hotel a mild positive - GoldmanGoldman Sachs thought Shangri-La's acquisition of a boutique Paris hotel could be a mild positive for its share price; even though it looks like Shangri-La is paying a full price for the hotel, the expansion of the Shangri-La brand in the European market would be the more important factor to focus on. More... [1045 views] Hyatt targets Generation X with new hotelsGlobal Hyatt Corp. said it was looking to attract customers in their twenties and thirties for its upscale extended-stay and limited-service hotels to take market share from competitors. "The target has always been the mid-week road warrior -- that was the baby boomer mentality. Now, the market is more fragmented and people are mixing business with leisure," Jim Abrahamson, Hyatt's senior vice president of acquisition and development, said at an industry conference. More... [1257 views] Winning The Moments of TruthOne of the essential elements in every business is to recognize where the Moments of Truth are for your guest. One could make a case that every moment is a crucible which may tip the consumer up or down the Raving Fandom Ladder...... More... [1058 views] 18th Annual Hotel Investment Conference Announces Speakers for March 12-14 EventOfficials of the Hotel Investment Conference announced key speakers for the 18th annual Hotel Investment Conference scheduled for March 12-14 at Atlanta's Crowne Plaza Ravinia. The Hotel Investment Conference is one of the industry's four major annual nationwide events designed specifically for hotel owners and investors. More... [618 views] Fundamentals Of Revenue Management Will Be Revealed In A Special Report Commissioned By HSMAI Special Interest GroupThe Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Revenue Management Special Interest Group has taken on an ambitious project to produce the first-ever comprehensive “Fundamentals of Revenue Management” special report. More... [880 views] Choice Hotels International Promotes Alexandra Jaritz-Kendrick To Vice President, Development OperationsChoice Hotels International, Inc.announced the promotion of Alexandra Jaritz-Kendrick to vice president, development operations. Jaritz-Kendrick previously held the position of senior director, brand strategy More... [779 views] Eastern Europe and London earmarked for hotel boomThe eastern European hotel market is set to claim more ground from its western European rivals in the competition for guests and market activity this year, while London can expect a boom in new hotels ahead of the 2012 Olympic Games. According to hotel investment group Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), the popularity of eastern Europe as a travel destination could see a clear shift in investment towards the former eastern block. More... [772 views] Small Luxury Hotels of the World Finishes Up 10% In Revenue For 2005Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), a luxury brand which boasts 359 hotels in nearly 60 countries, announced that it finished 2005 with a 10% increase in reservations revenue over the previous year. More... [689 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 26, 2006Travelocity acquires full ownership of ZUJIIn a move that further strengthens its global presence and positions it for additional growth in the Asia-Pacific region, Travelocity has acquired complete ownership of ZUJI, one of the leading online travel companies in the Asia-Pacific region. ZUJI includes operations in Australia, Hong Kong, Korea, New Zealand, Singapore and Taiwan. More... [677 views] Donald J. Trump Boards $80 Billion Online Travel Industry with the Launch of GoTrump.com;Donald J. Trump announces his biggest venture to date in the $80 billion online travel industry in a press conference today at Trump Tower. He affirmed the launch of GoTrump.com, and in conjunction with the creation of the website. Initial Partners Include: Travelocity, American Airlines, American Express, Blue Star Jets and JoonBug Productions More... [1149 views] Around 155 Hotels Under Active Development in IndiaAround 155 hotels, which are under active development in various cities in the country, will help to bridge this huge gap. The figure does not include the economy hotels which are also set to grow in large numbers. Bangalore Most Active with 27 new hotels with 6,100 Rooms More... [953 views] Global Hyatt Corporation Announces Name of New Extended Stay BrandChicago-based Global Hyatt Corporation announced the name of the Company's new upscale extended stay brand as Hyatt Summerfield Suites. More... [891 views] Embassy Suites Hotels(R) Announces New Prototype DesignEmbassy Suites Hotels unveiled its latest prototype design -- Design Option III. With a scalable key count, a flexible layout and a lower building cost, the new prototype gives developers more market choice in which to build an Embassy Suites Hotel - from urban and coastal markets, to more corporate and convention center markets. More... [822 views] New General Manager at Mövenpick Hotel Bur DubaiMövenpick Hotels & Resorts has appointed Michael Nugent as General Manager for the Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai. More... [1092 views] Carlson Hotels Worldwide Adds 110 Hotels to its Five-brand, Global Portfolio in 2005Carlson Hotels Worldwide today announced that 110 hotels and resorts were added to its five-brand, global portfolio in 2005, while the company achieved record financial results for the third consecutive year. Carlson Hotels ended the year with 922 hotels operating in 69 countries, generating systemwide revenues of USD $6 billion, an increase of 18 percent from 2004. The company's hotel brands include: Regent International Hotels, Radisson Hotels & Resorts®, Park Plazasm Hotels & Resorts, Country Inns & Suites By Carlsonsm and Park Inn®. More... [661 views] International tourism up by 5,5% to 808 million arrivals in 2005In 2005 international tourism sustained the sharp upturn that began in 2004 in spite of the various tragic events it had to contend. According to preliminary results presented today by the United Nations specialized agency, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) the number of international tourist arrivals recorded worldwide grew by 5.5% and exceeded 800 million for the first time ever. More... [821 views] Dusit Hotels and Resorts Maps Out Five-Year Plan, 2006-2010Dusit Hotels & Resorts recently held its five-year plan and strategy meeting, 2006-2010, at Dusit Resort, Pattaya. The meeting was held in order to create a roadmap for Dusit over the next five years, outlining the developments and service enhancements in all its properties. More... [783 views] Golden Tulip expands Middle East portfolio with a hotel in the Kingdom of BahrainGolden Tulip Hotels, Inns & Resorts is proud to announce the signing of the management agreement for the 250-room, a five star hotel that will be operating under the Golden Tulip flag as of January 1st, 2006. More... [631 views] Jeffrey Promoted to MD of World Travel Market Fiona Jeffery has been promoted from Group Exhibition Director to Managing Director of World Travel Market. “The new title reflects the importance of World Travel Market as the world’s number one leading business to business event for the international travel and tourism industry”, said Reed Travel Exhibitions chairman Tom Nutley. More... [518 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 25, 2006Starwood Hotels & Resort Appoints Michael Wale As Senior Vice President, Le Méridien OperationsStarwood Hotels & Resorts has appointed Michael Wale as Senior Vice President, Le Méridien Operations. Starwood acquired Le Méridien, the eighth brand for the multi-brand global hotel company, on 24 November 2005. Since November, Michael and the global integration team have been working on a robust integration plan to ensure a smooth and speedy transition period to integrate Le Méridien into Starwood’s portfolio of hotel brands. More... [1550 views] Starwood Capital Group to Launch New Luxury Hotel Brand 'Crillon'Starwood Capital Group today announced plans to launch a new international luxury brand called the Crillon through its Societe du Louvre affiliate. The company will develop European-style Crillon hotels and serviced residences in major destinations throughout the world. More... [1451 views] Branding with History - Historic Hotels Find Ways to Build a Competitive AdvantageOwners and operators of historic properties have become more creative in their efforts to develop and maintain long-lasting competitive advantages for their properties. More... [858 views] New General Manager & Regional Manager at Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts for 4 new properties in DubaiMövenpick Hotels & Resorts has appointed Thomas Tapken to the role of General Manager & Regional Manager for four new exclusive properties in Dubai, The Mövenpick Resort & Spa Palm Jumeirah, Mövenpick Resort Oceana The Palm Jumeirah, Ibn Battuta Hotel Dubai operated by Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts and Mövenpick Hotel Deira. More... [1053 views] PATA'S Top Five Winners for Third Quarter 2005 Destination PerformanceThe Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has published its comprehensive and comparative listing of Asia Pacific destination performance for third quarter 2005. The report shows which destinations attracted the most increases in international visitor arrivals, and from which source markets. More... [607 views] Jumeirah takes over management of first U.S. propertyDubai-based luxury hospitality group Jumeirah has formally taken over the management of New York’s Essex House hotel– which will now go by the name Jumeirah Essex House - as the 515-room premier hotel celebrates its 75th anniversary. More... [869 views] Visitors to New York Are Finding No Room at the Inn
More... [666 views] What is the Future for the Polish Hotel Industry?What are the current hotel trends in Poland? What is holding back the development of Poland's Hotel industry? This article answer these questions and helps shed light on Poland's hotel industry as a whole. More... [819 views] Distinguished Hotels International Opens in Asia And Signs Nine New HotelsDynamic international hotel marketing and management group, Distinguished Hotels International has set up its Asia Pacific office in Singapore with plans for an official launch at this year’s ITB. More... [779 views] Accor announces new director appointments in key sales areasCorporate and outbound travel sectors targeted in new appointments. Accor Asia Pacific’s Corporate Sales team is set to take on a new look, announcing promotions in three key sales areas. The new appointments are part of changes designed to further strengthen Accor’s national account team and individual hotel sales teams. More... [1213 views] Repeat Travel Popular as Ever as Family & Friends Travel Great Distances to See Each Other in 2006Travelocity's Yearly Forecast Poll Found Most U.S. Travelers Plan Vacations to the Same Spots Annually Travelocity's annual forecasting poll uncovers travel patterns and predictions of consumer behavior for 2006 revealing Americans are true creatures of habit. The survey conducted in December 2005 found that more than 60 percent of respondents take at least one annual vacation, and the majority of those travelers (60 percent) go to the exact same spot year after year, despite the variety of choices travelers have today. More... [505 views] CDL Hotels New Zealand to rebrandNew Zealand's largest hotel operator, CDL Hotels New Zealand Ltd, is to change its name to Millennium & Copthorne Hotels New Zealand Ltd. More... [687 views] Legendary Kahala Hotel to become an independent resortKahala Hotel Investors, LLC, an affiliate of Honolulu-based Trinity Investments, LLC, announced today its plans to rename the Kahala Mandarin Oriental Hawaii. As of March 1, the luxury 364 room property will become The Kahala and management of the AAA 5-Diamond resort will be turned over to Landmark Hotels, Incorporated. More... [911 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 24, 2006The price of qualitySalary levels are obviously crucial to attracting and retaining top talent, but what is a fair wage and how do salary levels differ throughout the industry? More... [2219 views] Super Spas 2006Interested in a seaweed wrap or a caviar facial? For people looking to refresh and rejuvenate, it has never been easier to find a luxury spa treatment. What's getting harder, for the spas at least, is staying competitive and profitable in an increasingly crowded market. More... [1360 views] Stability return in meeting marketLike other businesses, the meetings industry operates over time on a cyclical basis. There are years of industry recession when the number of events and attendees decline. Conversely, there are years of recovery and expansion when both attendance and event counts rise. More... [688 views] Shangri-La Asia acquires historic Palais in prime Paris location for its first European hotelShangri-La Asia, parent company of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Asia Pacific's leading luxury hotel group, has acquired the historic palais of Prince Roland Bonaparte with plans to convert it to the Shangri-La Hotel, Paris in late 2008, marking the group's European debut. More... [1053 views] Considerate Hotelier of the Year Awards 2006 …. And the Winners are…..The Considerate and Environmentally Responsible Hotel of the Year Awards 2006 were held today at The Master Innholders General Manager’s Conference in the elegant surroundings of The Jumeirah Carlton Tower London, attended by an array of industry “movers and shakers.” More... [1030 views] TripAdvisor Announces 2005 Travelers' Choice Award WinnersBest Hotels Selected by Millions of Travelers Around the World for Luxury, Value, Families, Pool and More. TripAdvisor, the largest global travel information and advice destination on the web, today announced its 2005 Travelers' Choice award winners. More... [863 views] General Managers announced for Southern California-based Kor Hotel Group's two East Coast propertiesJohn Arnett, President of the Los Angeles-based boutique-hotel operator Kor Hotel Group, is pleased to announce appointments at two recently added properties within the company's impressive boutique portfolio. Jan Rozenveld has been appointed as General Manager of the distinguished Tides Hotel in South Beach, Florida, and Franck Arnold has been appointed General Manager of The Jefferson in Washington, D.C. More... [753 views] World Travel & Tourism Council Announces Agenda for 2006 Summit and Conference Theme "Open Mind, Open World"The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) announced the agenda for its prestigious 6th Global Travel & Tourism Summit. Speaking during a press conference, WTTC Chairman Vincent Wolfington said, “The United States is the world’s largest single travel and tourism economy, making it a fitting place for us to frame the most significant issues facing our industry.” WTTC President Jean-Claude Baumgarten added, “Our site choice was quite deliberate, and we are delighted to be welcomed here.” More... [585 views] Singapore exceeds 2005 Targets with 8.94 million Visitor Arrivals and Sin$10.8 billion Tourism ReceiptsThe tourism sector in Singapore generated an estimated Sin$10.8 billion in tourism receipts (TR) in 2005, exceeding the target of Sin$10.4 billion and posting a growth of 10% over 2004. Singapore also set a new high of 8.94 million visitor arrivals (VA) last year, exceeding its target of 8.9 million VA and posting an increase of 7% over 2004. Total visitor days achieved a double-digit growth of 14% to reach 30.6 million days in 2005. More... [610 views] UK world's second-biggest outbound marketNew research from Mintel shows the world’s top 15 outbound tourism markets will account for 838.6m overseas trips a year by 2020, up from 433.3m in 2005. More... [868 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 23, 2006What The #$*#@%!!#$%!!!! Get Mad, Get WOWWhen I speak to groups I am struck by two things, the eager yearning I see in many faces to elevate their game, to ‘Get To WOW’ and a cloud of doubt that lurks, peeking out through the sudden downcast motion of the eyes. The way to WOW sounds right. By God, it IS right, but the obstacles seem so large, the inertia to remain in stasis so profound that action appears doomed. So, let me reiterate the basic mantra, “WOW is not nice to do, it is a Must Do Proposition”. How do you get the forward momentum? Get mad at the barriers which have held you back. Stand up, look in the mirror and shout, “What The #$*#@%!!#$%!!!!” By Rick Hendrie More... [1099 views] Ahuvi to buy UK Marriott hotelsMarriott's UK activity includes 46 hotels across Great Britain. The deal is estimated at $1 billion. More... [1105 views] Four Seasons' Sharp sees few options at FairmontThere are few synergies that Four Seasons Inc.could benefit from in the takeover battle for Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, Four Seasons chairman Isadore Sharp said. "They might have one or two hotels within their portfolio that we would be able to say we could convert but as we look through it, there weren't many," Sharp, who is also the luxury hotelier's chief executive, said on a webcast investor conference. More... [1090 views] Richardson To Become New Chairman Of De Vere GroupDavid Richardson, the former finance director at Whitbread, will take up his post as non-executive chairman in April. More... [603 views] Hilton May Sell Some HotelsHilton Hotels Corporation (HHC) has reportedly held talks with investment group Blackstone regarding the sale of a large part of the £2bn (US$3.5bn, 2.9bn euro) property assets it will acquire through its deal with the UK-based hotel and gaming operator Hilton Group. More... [842 views] Results of the European hotel industry in 2005The year 2005 appears positive in the majority of the large European countries with performance indicators generally on the rise. However the context of the year 2005 was not always most favorable. The economic growth is moderate, the organization of elections in Germany could have generated the wait-and-see policy of the economic players, and London was struck by bombings. More... [1370 views] UK hotels boast double the growth rate to that of EuropeUK hotels achieved growth levels in RevPAR (Revenue per Available Room) almost two and half times greater than the whole of Europe according to new data from research marketing information company The Bench and professional services firm KPMG. More... [586 views] Domina Hotel Group appoints Guy Simmons Regional Manager Baltic Area.In his new role, Simmons will be responsible for looking after all aspects of the new openings and for the operation results More... [802 views] Luxury Lifestyle Hotels & Resorts Launches Its New WebsiteLuxury Lifestyle Hotels & Resorts (LLH&R), a unique collection of Europe’s finest hotel properties, announces the launch of its new web site as of 18th January 2006. More... [1041 views] Kimpton Hotels Announce the Launch of Global Business ProgramLeading Boutique Hotel Player Offers Program Designed for Smaller Companies. Kimpton Hotels announces the launch of its Kimpton Global Business(TM) Program, an innovative program geared towards acknowledging smaller and mid-sized companies, associations and clubs, with specialty rates and exclusive benefits typically reserved for large-scale corporations. More... [659 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 20, 2006It's Just the Key to Your RoomComputerworld surveys 100 hotel card keys to explode an urban myth. Warning: Hotel card keys may contain personally identifiable data on the magnetic stripe. Is it fact—or fiction? "It's an urban legend. It doesn't work," says Joe McInerney, president of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA). Nonetheless, unsubstantiated reports keep surfacing every six months or so, he acknowledges. By Robert L. Mitchell More... [1070 views] The human costs of integration (or is it disintegration)Yeoh Siew Hoon mulls over the human costs as yet another acquisition is completed and the process of “integration” begins. More... [1132 views] Middle East hotels retain pole position during 2005First global hotel performance data for the full year 2005 from the HotelBenchmark™ Survey by Deloitte shows that across all regions of the world – Europe, Asia and the Middle East – revenue per available room (revPAR) continued to record positive growth throughout the year. More... [1258 views] Australian Hotels Continue to YieldAustralia’s major hotel markets have taken advantage of strong occupancy levels to increase room rates. According to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, the newly released Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) tourist accommodation performance data for the September quarter 2005 shows that seven of Australia’s ten major markets recorded average daily rate (ADR) growth in excess of 5.0%. More... [766 views] Marriott names Bob McCarhty president North American Lodging OperationsLeads operations for more than $6 billion, nearly 2,300-hotel North American division More... [709 views] Victor Lopez named Senior Vice President of Development for Hyatt CorporationVictor Lopez has been promoted to senior vice president of development for Hyatt Corporation. In his new role, Mr. Lopez will focus on international acquisition and development primarily in Latin America and Caribbean. He will report to Michael Shindler, senior vice president, development for Hyatt International. More... [872 views] Banyan Tree Boss Ho to Keynote PATA ConferenceLeading lifestyle business entrepreneur Mr Ho Kwon Ping will deliver the opening keynote speech entitled, "Changing Lifestyles -- New Opportunities" at the PATA Annual Conference (PAC06) in Pattaya, Thailand, on April 24. Closing PAC06 on April 26 will be Dr Mechai Viravaidya, a renowned politician and activist who popularised condom use in Thailand. More... [606 views] Underwater hotel construction to begin next monthThe construction of the $500 million under water hotel will start in the first quarter of this year, a spokesperson of the project managers revealed to Khaleej Times yesterday. More... [1284 views] Gary Loveman Named Gaming & Lodging Industry's Top CEOGary Loveman, chairman, chief executive officer and president of Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. was named "Best CEO" in the gaming and lodging industry by Institutional Investor magazine. Loveman has received the award every year since assuming the position of CEO in 2003. More... [575 views] Oman among world's top emerging destinations in five years says Radisoon SAS GMOman will be among the world’s top emerging tourism spots within five to seven years, according to Chris Pike, General Manager of Radisson SAS, Muscat, part of the fast growing Brussels-based Rezidor SAS Hospitality. More... [655 views] Starwood reaches a milestone announcing its 20th new hotel signing in Greater China - Sheraton Zhongshan HotelSheraton continues its expansion stride in China - Hotel set to open in January 2009 More... [685 views] World's travel leaders meet at Feb. 24 New York Times Travel ShowDay of Industry Events Includes Conferences for Travel Executives, Tourism Boards, Travel Writers and Travel Agents More... [557 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 19, 2006Hilton Hotels Corporation Extends World's Greatest Hotel Name to Create Luxury Brand Line: The Waldorf=Astoria CollectionHilton Hotels Corporation has announced that the company is introducing a new luxury hotel line that will extend the cachet of New York's legendary Waldorf=Astoria(R) hotel. Unveiled today as "The Waldorf=Astoria Collection(R)," the new, elite brand designation will build upon the legend that company founder Conrad N. Hilton called "The Greatest of Them All," the Waldorf=Astoria. More... [1223 views] Shame, Shame, Shame on You! Shortsighted Thinking is a Terrible ThingEvery now and then, I read an article that really gets my blood boiling. Recently, I came across one such article; it implied that there are some hotels and airlines that are discriminating between direct-booked guests versus those coming through a commissioned third-party. If there is even a modicum of truth to this, I can honestly say that now, I've seen and heard it all. By Neil Salerno More... [1213 views] Michels joins easyJet boardHilton Group chief executive David Michels is to join the easyJet board as a non-executive director on 6 March 2006. More... [869 views] Boutique hotels bring new architecture, high serviceBoutique hotels are the next wave in hotel construction in the Twin Cities, with several high-profile projects in the works. And local architects are excited by the challenges the projects pose. More... [1025 views] Four Seasons Opens Tented Camp in ThailandFour Seasons Hotels and Resorts opened the doors (or rather tent flaps) to its first all-inclusive Tented Camp. As the company's third property in Thailand, this exceptional property is located in heart of the Thai jungle, offering uncompromising attention to detail and an unforgettable guest experience. More... [986 views] 2005 Another Award Winning Year for the Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli on Italy’s Lake GardaAlso for owner, veteran hotelier Robert H. Burns. Opened in 2001 in the picturesque village of Gargnano on Lake Garda - described by the writer D.H. Lawrence as “one of the most beautiful places on earth”, the exclusive and idyllic Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli continued to be honoured with the hospitality world’s top awards and accolades in 2005. More... [773 views] Hoteliers: Include these five points to your contracts with event plannersMany hotels live and die by the conventions and meetings they attract. For convention-oriented hotels, events can account for as much as 60 percent of room revenue, and even some luxury hotels can attribute over a third of their sales to events. Given that so much revenue is wrapped up in group business, hotel executives have no choice but to entice event planners with highly competitive rates and terms. More... [1381 views] HTNG Workgroup to Address the Challenge of Content Management in DistributionFirst Europe-Based Workgroup Initiative for Global Association Hotel Technology Next Generation (HTNG) today announced a new workgroup that will focus on content management for distribution channels More... [569 views] Caribbean Robust this 2006Despite a challenging 2005 disrupted by several destructive hurricanes, destinations in the Caribbean all gear up for business in the new year. More... [633 views] Croatia - the Most Desirable Destination in 2006 for American Travelers!According to the recent survey of the USTOA, the hottest new tourist destination for 2006 is Croatia! National Geographic Adventure also awarded Croatia as The Best Destination for this year. More... [765 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 18, 2006Darwin was right; a good employee selection process will make you the fittest!Beset with Turnover, a less than reliable labor pool which is shrinking, changing and alarming, and facing rising costs and expectations, Retail Businesses and specifically Hospitality are between that proverbial “rock and a hard place”. Seeking Talent has been replaced by the “warm body” count mentality, untrained, unmotivated and unprepared employees thrust into the spotlight as our delivery point for service excellence. The door keeps revolving, any standards we might have or aspire to are diminished and the Guest, Customer and Visitor Experience is dashed. We can do better. By John R. Hendrie, Principal, Hospitality Performance More... [1448 views] In Bed With China's Traveling RichStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, owner of the Westin and other luxury hotel chains, expects business in China to boom in the next few years as the country’s economic growth spurs spending by well-heeled travelers. The number of hotels that the company manages will grow by two-thirds, to 40, by the end of 2007, compared with 24 at the end of last year, says Robert Hogenstijn, the company’s China operations manager. More... [1002 views] Hoteliers search for ways to stand out from rivalsU.S. hotels are trying to build a new brand image that focuses on forging an emotional link with customers in a lodging landscape where everything increasingly looks the same. More... [842 views] easyJet founder seeks Singapore mate for hotel chainSingapore's tourism industry looks set to get its "uniqueness" strongly enhanced if Europe's most famous entrepreneur, Mr Stelios Haji-Ioannu, has his way. The founder of Europe's biggest budget airline easyJet and its newest ocean-bound avatar easyCruise, plans to set up the Asian network of his world-famous easyHotel chain in Singapore. More... [729 views] 10 differences between skiing in Europe and the USAEuropean ski and snowboard resorts have a different flavor from the sport served up in the USA. It will only take an uninitiated American skier or snowboarder a short time in the Alps or the Pyrenees to realize that there is little similar in Europe to the American experience other than snow and the general practice of sliding down the trails on skis or a snowboard. More... [1129 views] Arabian Travel Market 2006 gets early luxury sector supportLeading international luxury hotels Arabella Sheraton, Sun International, Kwantu Private Game Reserve, Solimer Golf Resort & Spa, Le Passage To India, Leading Hotels of the World, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts and Raffles have already committed their participation at this year’s Arabian Travel Market, four months before the region’s premier travel and tourism trade exhibition and event, is held again in Dubai. More... [736 views] Choice focuses on Hotel OpeningsChoice Hotels International, Inc. announced the creation of an improved Hotel Openings support function focused on ensuring that new construction and conversion properties joining the Choice system meet standards, enter the system more quickly and receive an even higher level of service and support. More... [564 views] Radisson SAS is back in business in DubaiRadisson SAS Hotels & Resorts, part of the fast-growing Brussels-based Rezidor SAS Hospitality, is back in business in Dubai with the opening of the first tower of its ‘New Breed’ property in the heart of the emirate’s emerging global media hub. More... [733 views] Three New Hotels in January Boost WORLDHOTELS’ Asia PortfolioWORLDHOTELS, the world’s fastest growing group of independent hotels and local hotel groups has announced three new hotels in Asia effective January 2006. They include Shanghai’s largest conference centre hotel, the first resort-style hotel in Dongguan, South China and the first five star resort by a local Cambodian designer in Siem Reap. More... [622 views] Hotel consulting firm över5 sets up shop in La Quinta Californiaöver5, a consulting company specializing in small, non-branded hotels, boutique hotels, resorts, b&b and inns has located it’s offices in La Quinta California. More... [689 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 17, 2006When Silver and Bronze Just Are Not EnoughIf the Olympics were coming to your city, would you be ready to provide gold medal service? Though the Winter Games will be in Italy, your loyal guests deserve the same service excellence at your facility that will be expected in Torino. By Gene Ference More... [627 views] Hotel Investors will look East in 2006Hotel investors predict that Eastern European markets will give their more established peers in Western Europe a run for their money on trading performance this year says a report by Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels. The research that has surveyed 2,000 of the world’s principal investors and owners of hotel and resort properties, found that the majority are keen to hold on to their European hotel assets with a third looking to buy in the short term. More... [742 views] Marriott Launches Industry-Leading Personalized Service Program - 'Spirit To Serve Our Guests' Marriott International, Inc.is taking its personalized service to a new level with the launch of Spirit To Serve Our Guests, an industry-leading guest service program. From first contact to check-in, Marriott's Spirit To Serve Our Guests engages the customer in five key service experiences; calls to reservations now pre- identify guest preferences; pre-arrival e-mails help with trip planning; Marriott's Rewarding Welcome allows hotels globally to recognize guest preferences at check-in; a virtual concierge lets guests select special amenities online; and a new system helps Marriott Rewards members track points toward their dream vacations. More... [1517 views] Marriott Transforms Lobbies and Public Space With Revolutionary Great Room ConceptMarriott International, Inc. announced plans for its great room concept -- a revolutionary transformation of public space in its Marriott Hotels & Resorts and Renaissance Hotels & Resorts. The new concept is designed specifically for the 24/7 work patterns of business travelers today, who smoothly transition and mix work, relaxation, socializing and play throughout the day. More... [1081 views] Meetings Industry to Grow in 2006With Increase in Meetings, Attendees, Budgets, Lead Times and Demand Outpacing Supply. Meeting Professionals International and American Express Survey Projects Third Consecutive Year of Growth More... [772 views] Asian Destinations Gearing Up To Tap Lucrative Chinese Outbound Travel Market Utilizing BITTM 2006Malaysia, 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... [554 views] Some Readers View the Cornell Hotel and Restaurant Administration Quarterly as Being Too Academic; The Journal's Editor Michael Sturman RespondsPerhaps I'm Protesting Too Much, But... In his December 27th column, Stanley Turkel criticized Gary Thompson's response to the criticism that the Cornell Quarterly is too academic. The editor of the Cornell Quarterly responds..... More... [707 views] Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts Named to Fortune Magazine's 100 Best Companies to Work For List for 9th Consecutive YearEmployees From Near and Far Honour Company With Their Endorsement Hotelier Only Canadian Company on Prestigious List More... [1120 views] Rezidor SAS Announces the Opening of Radisson SAS Bosphorus Hotel, IstanbulRadisson SAS Hotels & Resorts, the first-class, full-service international brand of Rezidor SAS Hospitality, announces the opening of the Radisson SAS Bosphorus Hotel in Istanbul, Turkey. The newly-built 120-room hotel offers a modern and stylish design with views of the Bosphorus strait. More... [593 views] Boutique reaches fifty member hotelsA mere six months after its launch, Boutique, the newest brand within the Preferred Hotel Group, has carefully selected and confirmed 50 member properties. The Boutique collection of hotels is distinguished by a commitment to exceptional service and distinctive style at intimate, design-savvy properties of 150 rooms or less. More... [878 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 16, 2006Hilton Hotels Fires Up "Re-ignition'' Campaign with $1 Billion Investment in Property Enhancements, New Guest Services, and Advertising CampaignPhysical Improvements, Emotional Connection, and Shared-Philosophy Partnerships Combine in Campaign Designed to Elevate Guest Experience and Satisfaction. Consistently recognized as one of the most powerful brands in the industry, Hilton Hotels is in the midst of a $1 billion re-ignition campaign. More... [1194 views] Branding: Setting the StandardsRemember the Golden Rule. Designers generally go through college learning the fundamentals of design such as the use of human proportion in Georgian architecture, or the use of the Golden Section. Such ‘rules’ underpin much of good design but good design is often driven by reaction against the taught and the perceived wisdom of a previous generation. By Patrick Goff, Hoteldesings.net More... [935 views] Conde Nast Johansens Names the Recipients for the 2006 Americas Awards for ExcellenceCondé Nast Johansens today announced the eagerly awaited winners of the 2006 America's Awards for Excellence. The recipients of the prestigious awards were revealed at the publication's annual awards gala. Winners included The Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California; The Point, Saranac Lake, New York; The Hay Adams,Washington DC , The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, South Carolina; and The Lodge at Pico Bonito, Atlantida, Honduras. More... [737 views] Hyatt clan share out $1.3bn to end row on inheritanceDisgruntled cousins of the Pritzker family, which controls the Hyatt hotels empire, are to be paid more than $1.3 billion (£736 million) by the end of this year as part of a legal settlement to end a bitter dispute over their inheritance. Details of the previously secret payments to the 11 cousins were revealed in court documents unsealed this week at the request of the Chicago Tribune newspaper. More... [911 views] Accor Names Executive CommitteeFrench hotels company Accor published its new executive committee lineup, naming recently arrived Philippe Adam as executive vice president of strategy and hotel development. More... [947 views] Demand for Europe continues strong as US travel to Europe increased +3% at 7-Month MarkAccording to the latest figures from the US Department of Commerce
, a total of 7,463,000 US citizens traveled to Europe by transatlantic air through July. Compared to last year’s July figures, which registered 7,236,000 US visitors to Europe, US travel to Europe is up more than three percent. In fact, in 2005 every month except February saw an increase in US visitors. More... [558 views] Trading in hotels on the rise in Asia-Pacific: surveyHotel trading across the Asia Pacific is on the rise and investors are taking notice, thanks to increasing operating incomes, strong regional economies and a limited supply on the drawing broad, according to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels’ latest Hotel Investor Sentiment Survey. More... [663 views] Top financial decision-makers choose CNN as their number one news brand in Asia Pacific and globallyCNN International reconfirms its position as the leading news brand for the global financial community, across all regions (Asia, Europe, Latin America and North America) according to the Global Capital Markets Survey (GCMS) 2006, conducted by Objective Research. More... [528 views] InterContinental The Barclay New York Names Leland Lewis as General ManagerLewis was recently named General Manager for the InterContinental The Barclay New York. In this position, Lewis will be responsible for the operations and profitability of the 686-room hotel, the flagship hotel for InterContinental Hotels & Resorts in North America. More... [865 views] Gulliver Ireland Tourism Accommodation Award Winners 2005 AnnouncedWinners of the second annual Gulliver Ireland Tourism Accommodation Awards 2005 were announced on January 12th, 2006. Bray’s Esplanade Hotel & Fitness Centre was awarded the overall honour. The Gulliver Ireland Awards recognise online marketing excellence demonstrated by hotel, guesthouse, b & b and self-catering accommodation suppliers around the country through their partnership with Gulliver Ireland . More... [533 views] Luxury hotels pilot gains in 2005 Hungarian tourismA 15pc increase in the number of guest-nights spent at four- and five-star hotels paved the way for a successful 2005 tourism year in Hungary, according to an article published in the Tuesday issue of the economic daily Magyar Gazdasag. More... [635 views] Caribbean's tourism industry gears up for its top sales and marketing event of the year.
More... [592 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 13, 2006From The Top Miguel KoIt is all about the brands. Fresh from its acquisition of Meridien, Starwood is promising brand differentiation and aggressive growth through management and franchising. President Asia-Pacific Miguel Ko tells all to Raini Hamdi. How is the Meridien deal good for you in Asia-Pacific? More... [1460 views] Rating CondominiumsIs the current AAA condo rating policy adequate? Is it fair to the operator, and to the travelers who depend on AAA ratings? If not, what can be done to improve the system and make it more responsive to the needs of both? By Harry Nobles & Cheryl Griggs More... [655 views] When Benchmarks Don't WorkBenchmarks have their virtues, but professor Robert S. Kaplan at Harvard Business School argues they should be saved for surveys of commoditized processes or services. More... [917 views] Oh no, not another festivalYeoh Siew Hoon's exhausted from all the celebrating. More... [758 views] Starwood Hotels Faces claim for Over $35 Million from Asia Hotel as Lawsuit Enters Final PhaseAsia Hotel Investments Ltd., a resort developer and hotel investor in Southeast Asia enters the final damages phase of a $35 million lawsuit for breach of an agreement that it won in the Court of Appeal, the highest Court in the land. More... [1180 views] Accolades for Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang MaiMandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai, has been named as Hideaway of the Year by Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report, in an annual survey that singles out the world’s most captivating hideaway hotels and resorts for special recognition. More... [759 views] Avian Flu: UNWTO calls for caution but says no need for travel restrictionsWhile the latest outbreak of avian flu in Turkey is not expected to have a serious impact on tourism in the country or the immediate region, the tourism industry must not underestimate the threat and needs to keep preparing for the worst should it occur, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) said on Wednesday. More... [494 views] Complimentary High Speed Internet access to all guestroomsRoyal Plaza on Scotts in Singapore is the first business hotel to offer complimentary unlimited high speed internet access in all guestrooms. With the successful launch of the complimentary mini-bar service by Royal Plaza on Scotts 6 years ago, the hotel introduces another revolutionary idea to offer another value-add service to benefit business travellers More... [819 views] Underwater hotel construction to begin next month - DubaiThe construction of the $500 million under water hotel will start in the first quarter of this year. More... [1431 views] World Cup fans face hefty hotel hikesLooking for a cheap room in Germany during the soccer World Cup? Think again. Organisers of the month-long tournament and the German tourist industry had promised reasonable rates but fans looking for affordable accommodation now are likely to be disappointed. More... [647 views] Data for 55,000 customers stolen from Bahamas hotelThe upscale Atlantis Resort has acknowledged an apparent database break-in More... [898 views] WORLDHOTELS China Hotels Switch to Single RMB PricingWith immediate effect, all mainland China properties of WORLDHOTELS are converting to pricing solely in the nation’s RMB currency, abandoning a previous policy of offering rates in US dollars. More... [564 views] Big business, little luxuriesClub Med launches $1 a day kid’s deal to groups and conference market More... [642 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 12, 2006Think Strawberries'And you think strawberries are for eating . . .' The following is the text of James Lavenson’s famous "Think Strawberries" keynote speech to the American Marketing Association in 1973. Lavenson was president and CEO of the Plaza Hotel, which was profitable under Lavenson’s tenure. In February 1975, the Plaza was sold to Western International Hotels. It's in the news again now, being converted to very, very expensive condos.. Since his speech, "Think Strawberries" has become code for salesmanship. The speech tells the story of how Lavenson turned the 1,400 employees of the Plaza into great, customer-focused sales people. Everybody sells. More... [2590 views] What Really Drives Your Strategy?For better or worse, why do so many companies veer off their strategic plan? Look for a disconnect between strategy and how resources are allocated, say Harvard Business School’s Joseph L. Bower and Clark G. Gilbert. More... [1068 views] Veteran Hospitality Industry Executive, Don Robinson, AppointedDon C. Robinson, a 34-year career veteran of The Walt Disney Company, has been appointed president of Baha Mar Resorts Ltd., effective February 1, 2006. The announcement was made today by Sarkis Izmirlian, CEO, Baha Mar Resorts. More... [641 views] Fresh Air: The New Hospitality AmenityPineapple Hospitality launches FreshStay™, an online directory of hotels offering better indoor air quality More... [844 views] Turkish tourism industry fears bird flu impactA deadly bird flu outbreak that has hit humans in Turkey raised fears over the country's tourism industry, a vital source of foreign revenue. Russia and the UK, whose tourists are among the most frequent visitors at Turkish seaside resorts, have already advised their citizens against travelling to Turkey, especially to areas affected by the disease. More... [757 views] The 53rd International Congress of Les Clefs d’Or Concierges Set for Washington DC January 10-15, 2006Global challenges in delivering service, trends in hospitality markets worldwide and the future of the concierge profession will be featured at the 53rd annual International Congress of Les Clefs d ‘Or Concierges, Jan. 10-15, 2006 in Washington DC at the Capital Hilton Hotel. More... [585 views] New managing director for Accor Hotels for UK and IrelandAccor Hotels have announced >Jean-Jacques Dessors, currently Managing Director UK & Ireland responsible for the Ibis, Etap and Formule 1 brands, will broaden his responsibilities from 1st January 2006 to include all UK & Ireland Novotel and Mercure Hotels. His new role will include all Operational, Sales, Distribution and Marketing aspects of Accor Hotels in the UK and Ireland. More... [799 views] Cornell Hotel School, The Culinary Institute of America Create Dual Degree ProgramThe Cornell University School of Hotel Administration and The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) have created a dual degree program for students seeking a preeminent education in hospitality management and the culinary arts. More... [769 views] Brazil: Accor Hotels reaches R$620 millionBrazilian hostelery is experiencing a positive moment, although it is still very vulnerable. More... [601 views] Hospitality management school to open in the PhilippinesEnderun Colleges will be opening its doors to students in June. Named after the royal palace school of the Ottoman period, the college is dedicated solely to providing quality education to those with their sights set on success in the global hospitality industry. More... [1853 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 11, 2006How Should I Spend My Marketing Dollars in 2006?As we review sales and marketing initiatives for 2006, we all have the same goal: to increase market share and improve the bottom line. More... [1538 views] MKG Reports Rise Of Revpar For French Hotels Exceeding 3% In 2005After a delicate year in 2003 for the French hotel industry, the engaged renewal of activity in 2004 is confirmed in 2005: all categories included, at a constant sample, the RevPAR records an increase of 4%. At a variable sample, the increase of the RevPAR is of 3% and is supported by a progression of the average price of 2,3%. Over the year 2005, the occupancy rate has slightly increased with a rise of 0,5 points. More... [589 views] Hilton’s first palace hotel appoints senior management teamQasr Al Sharq, Hilton’s first ever palace property is strengthening its senior management team in preparation of an early March opening, two months ahead of plan. The 46-all-suite opulent palace hotel, which is located adjacent to the Jeddah Hilton and managed by Hilton International, recently welcomed Mr. Marc W. de Beer as Manager for Qasr al Sharq and Mr. Akram Sha’ar joins as Director of Business Development for the super luxurious property. More... [1098 views] Hotels wake up to urban blight as tourists desert Spanish resortsExcessive urban development of Spain's Mediterranean resorts is driving away foreign visitors and damaging the vital tourist industry, the country's leading hotel conglomerates have warned. Over-development of top tourist regions risks alienating holidaymakers, according to Exceltur, which represents Spain's biggest tourist companies. More... [737 views] I win, and an unlucky girl losesYeoh Siew Hoon did a terrible thing over the Christmas period. She turned down a prize she had won in a lucky draw on the street and, in the process, she deprived a young girl of her $150 commission. More... [1151 views] Accor: Change in Corporate Governance Structure Approved by the Combined Meeting of Accor ShareholdersAt the Combined Meeting of Accor Shareholders, held yesterday under the chairmanship of Serge Weinberg, all of the resolutions were approved by a significant majority. More... [731 views] Jan Kirstein Appointed General Manager of Sheraton Grande Laguna PhuketSheraton Grande Laguna Phuket announced today the appointment of Jan Stefan Kirstein as General Manager of the 346-room luxury hotel. In his new role, Mr. Kirstein will report to Wayne Buckingham, Vice President & Area Managing Director of Starwood Hotels & Resorts in Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. More... [1723 views] Yahoo! and Sheraton Hotels & Resorts Help Guests Stay Connected with Yahoo! Link @ SheratonIndustry-first relationship enables guests to stay in touch while out of town with free Wi-Fi and broadband Internet access, localized online information, and 30-day free Yahoo! service trials More... [676 views] HSMAI Gets New Chair as Industry Executives Jack Schmidt Assumes Post for 2006-2008 TermHospitality sales and marketing executive Jack Schmidt, chief marketing officer of Benchmark Hospitality, has been elected Chairman of the Americas Board for the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI). More... [526 views] Indonesian Tourism Target for 2006 SetIndonesia's Minister of Culture and Tourism, Jero Wacik, has announced a "moderate" foreign tourist arrival target of 5.5 million for 2006. That total, projected to generate US$5 billion in foreign exchange earnings, would represent a 7.8% improvement over 2005 arrivals expected to end the year at 5.1 million. More... [572 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 10, 2006Who's in charge and who will lead the way?We continue to bemoan the obvious – the decline of Service and the devaluation of Product in the Hospitality Industry. We do not hire for Talent – warm bodies will do. We do not pay for that talent – minimum wage and tip credit promote ill-equipped “Ambassadors”. We do not develop our talent – training is seen merely as a cost, not an investment. We do not have consistent Standards – we present an uneven delivery. We do not collaborate to present that favorable Brand. By John R. Hendrie More... [1249 views] Expanding Minor gets SagildThailand’s Minor Group, which is expanding rapidly, is bringing on board veteran hotelier Mr Michael Sagild as chief operating officer. Mr Sagild left Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts at the end of December. He headed the chain in Asia for the last six years out of Hong Kong. Meridien was sold to Starwood Hotels & Resorts recently (see From The Top with Miguel Ko, page 5) and its management team in Asia has all but crumbled. By Raini Hamdi, Editor, TTG Asia More... [964 views] Hilton hotels - Together againParis Hilton, an American socialite and heiress, makes a living out of exploiting a famous name. Her great grandfather, Conrad Hilton, built one of the world's best-known hotel chains. He also made some odd decisions, including cutting all of his children out of his will (which Paris's grandfather challenged successfully) and breaking up his company: in 1964 he sold its international division. But in an age when global brands are more important than ever, the two Hiltons are now finally being reunited. More... [1328 views] ITC, Starwood may part ways after 30 yearsThe 30-year-old marriage seems to be on the rocks. ITC Hotels and Starwood Hotels & Resorts, the holder of Sheraton brand, after one of the longest associations in the hospitality sector have not yet extended the current contract which expired on December 31. ITC Welcomegroup and Sheraton Hotels & Resorts jointly manage 10 properties in India. More... [931 views] Foreign hotels take on giants in TokyoA tourist or businessperson visiting Tokyo may be surprised to see so many upscale foreign-owned hotels springing up in the heart of the capital. In December, Hong Kong-based Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group International Ltd. opened a new luxury hotel in a redeveloped area of Nihonbashi, in Tokyo's Chuo Ward. More... [753 views] MHI Hospitality Corporation Announces Appointment of David R. Folsom to Chief Operating OfficerMHI Hospitality Corporation (AMEX:MDH) , announced today that David R. Folsom joins the company as Executive Vice President in the newly created position of chief operating officer. More... [555 views] Gulfood 2006 is already cooking up a stormThe region is gearing up for its most successful food and hospitality event yet, as applications continue to pour in for exhibition space at Gulfood 2006. The 11th Gulf Food, Hotel and Equipment Exhibition and Salon Culinaire, organised by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), will be held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC) from 19th to 22nd February 2006. More... [541 views] InterContinental Riyadh gets new general managerInterContinental Hotels Group has announced the appointment of Nassir Abdullah Al Dossari to the role of General Manager for the InterContinental Riyadh. Awarded for the fourth consecutive year as the best business hotel in Riyadh by readers of Middle East Business Traveller and Al Iktissaad Wal Aamal magazines, the InterContinental Riyadh has more recently undergone significant upgrades with recent room renovations. More... [844 views] Barceló Hotels & Resorts Adds 21 New Hotels in 2005During the course of 2005, Barceló Hotels & Resorts has added a total of 21 new hotels, which, along with existing holdings, increases the company’s portfolio as of December 31, 2005 to 115 hotels and 29,278 rooms, distributed throughout 13 countries. More... [664 views] HVS International Announces Organization of Board of DirectorsSteve Rushmore, President and Founder of HVS International has announced the formation of a Board of Directors, a step taken to continue the growth and expansion of HVS services and office locations.
More... [733 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 9, 2006Where We Want To Go In 2006With the new year comes the inevitable tide of resolutions, remorse (for overdoing it during the holidays), anticipation for the 12 months ahead and, for many people, a bad case of the winter blahs. By Sophia Banay, Forbes.com More... [1082 views] Today's hotels: Check in, turn on, tech outBloody Mary on draught... optical scan door keys... and rooms that remember your name - as Rob Waugh reveals, they are all realities in today's sci-fi hotels. More... [1220 views] Goodbye mini bar, hello mini roomWhile executive class plane seats are getting bigger, hotel rooms it seems are getting smaller. The coming year will see the launch of Yotel, a new chain of budget hotels which, although not quite as diminutive as Japan's capsule hotels, will see business travelers crammed into 10-square-meter cabins. More... [1325 views] New Vice President-Development at Dusit Hotels & ResortsDusit Hotels & Resorts has appointed Duncan Jamieson, a senior hospitality professional for almost 30 years, as Vice President-Development More... [949 views] Italian hotel performance continues to improve slowlyLatest results from the HotelBenchmark Survey by Deloitte show that the sluggish performance of the Italian economy has not cast a shadow on hotel performance. Italian hoteliers have managed to grow revenue per available room (revPAR) by 2.8% year-to-October 2005 - the second year of revPAR growth following two years of decline. More... [574 views] Glass very full: Hawaii hotelsHawaii hotels are running so full that they can't add much more volume in 2006, predicts Joe Toy, CEO of Hospitality Advisors LLC. But to the extent that they can, they will, Toy said in an informal but comprehensive forecast this week for Pacific Business News. More... [552 views] Word of Mouth: Advertising 2.0Enter word of mouth and the equally relentless push of technology. Like some great, agnostic liberator, technology offers opportunities for marketers and consumers alike. More... [766 views] Bermuda Hoteliers upbeat on 2006Bermuda’s hoteliers are hopeful that additional flights to Bermuda from Europe and the United Kingdom, as well as future branding of the Island in North America will pay off in 2006. So much so, that many hotels are investing heavily in their physical infrastructure. More... [548 views] Buoyant tourism in Phuket during New Year festivalTourism in Phuket hit a record high during the New Year`s festival , which was believed to have generated more than Bt500 million in revenue, while Phangnga remains low-key, according to Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officials. More... [599 views] Vera Wang Boutique at Halekulani opensHalekulani, Hawaii's leading luxury hotel and home of the globally acclaimed Vera Wang Suite, is pleased to announce the unveiling of the new Vera Wang Boutique at Halekulani. The boutique, which opens tomorrow, offers Vera Wang's luxurious lifestyle collections. More... [711 views] All systems go for host ASEAN Tourism Forum 2006Philippines Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano on Tuesday assured that Davao City is ready to host the 25th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) on Jan. 13-21, and is poised to make a grand entrance in the global tourism stage as an international tourist destination able to compete with its counterparts in Asia, a report from Philippine paper Manila Bulletin said. More... [532 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 6, 2006Hotelier’s 2006 Top Ten Internet Marketing ResolutionsIn 2006, 27%-29% of all revenues in hospitality will be generated from the Internet (25% in 2005, 20% in 2004). Another 27% of all hotel bookings will be influenced by the Internet, but done offline (call center, walk-ins, group bookings, etc). By the end of 2007, 39% of all travel sales will be online (Merrill Lynch). Are hoteliers taking full advantage of this dramatic channel shift? Has the shift increased commoditization of hotel rooms and the overall experience? By Max Starkov and Jason Price More... [1457 views] Addicted to TravelOnce a travel addict, always a travel addict. Yeoh Siew Hoon caves in to the nature of her beast. More... [711 views] New General Manager Appointments At Accor Hotels In AsiaAccor Asia Pacific is pleased to announce 5 new General Manager appointments in its Asia hotel network. More... [1921 views] CNL Hotels & Resorts to Acquire Grande Lakes Orlando Resort's Two Distinguished Properties, The Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott, for Approximately $753 MillionAcquisition Marks Company's First Ritz-Carlton and First Luxury Asset In Orlando. CNL Hotels & Resorts, Inc. today announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire the 500-acre Grande Lakes Orlando resort, comprising a 584-room Ritz-Carlton, a 998-room JW Marriott, a 40,000- square-foot spa and an 18-hole Greg Norman-designed championship golf course. More... [747 views] PKF Consulting Launches Golf & Resort GroupOfficials of PKF Consulting, a consulting and real estate firm specializing in the hospitality industry, today announced that it has launched a new Golf & Resort Group to provide consulting and planning services to these two unique hospitality segments. The company also announced that it has named Tim Wyman as director of the new division. More... [670 views] Wealthy Clients rate Mandarin Oriental #1 Among Top Luxury Hotels in Customer ExperienceAccording to the new Luxury Customer Experience Index survey (LCEI) from the New York-based Luxury Institute, www.luxuryinstitute.com, Mandarin Oriental earned top honors as the luxury hotel brand that delivers "the best customer experience" as rated and ranked by their own wealthy customers. Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons tied for second place and St. Regis was a close third. More... [1600 views] Extended-stay hotels extend gainsExtended-stay hotels, the lodging of choice for traveling consultants, new hires and the recently divorced, are the hottest properties in the hotel industry. Measured by the number of room-nights sold, demand for the hotels in the USA soared 7.3% in the first nine months of 2005. More... [579 views] Indian hospitality sector bounces back in 2005Lower airfares and an increased focus on infrastructure development kept the Indian hospitality industry busy in 2005, as room rates hardened and occupancies soared to new highs, thanks to increased foreign tourist arrivals and domestic travellers. More... [651 views] Leading by Design Member Wins “Best Hotel Design” Award at IH/M&RS Gold Key Awards CeremonyLeading by Design Member Wins “Best Hotel Design” Award at IH/M&RS Gold Key Awards Ceremony. Richmond International, one of the inaugural members of Leading By Design, captured the Best Hotel Design honor at the 25th annual International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show® Gold Key Awards for Excellence in Hospitality Design. More... [621 views] Restaurant Performance Index Signals Optimistic Outlook for the Restaurant Industry In the New YearThe outlook for the restaurant industry remains optimistic going into 2006, as the National Restaurant Association's comprehensive index of restaurant activity held steady in November. More... [572 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 5, 2006Human Capital Crisis in HospitalityEvery year the pundits and hospitality leaders project challenges for the coming year, and, like clockwork, one issue is always TURNOVER OF EMPLOYEES. How do you attract and retain employees, your Human Capital, your Ambassadors to the Visitor and Guest? By John R. Hendrie, Principal, Hospitality Performance More... [1607 views] Gulf region to house 80 new hotels by year 2008As many as 80 new hotels are being developed in the Gulf to accommodate an increasing flow of inbound traffic for business and leisure travellers. More... [1105 views] Boyd Gaming Unveils Las Vegas Strip Development PlanFour Hotels, ExpoCenter and Retail Promenade Will Anchor Extensive Complex - - Bob Boughner to Lead Experienced Development Team - More... [720 views] The corporate apartment alternativeDo you get tired of the hotel life? I do. Don't get me wrong; I love room service and maid service. But after a while, I miss the comforts of home even if I have to prepare my own food, do the dishes and pick up after myself. I miss a refrigerator stocked with my favorite foods and a comfortable place to sit and work. For travelers who have extended stays in a single locale, there are alternatives to hotels. More... [1053 views] Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts to open luxury hotel on the Las Vegas StipThe Shangri-La Hotel, Las Vegas will be part of Boyd Gamingfs recently announced 63-acre masterplanned Echelon Place development on the Las Vegas Strip. More... [873 views] Pelican System Introduces Product ConceptPelican - Hotel Reservation System, introduces its New Product Concept: Booking Engine, Central Reservation system, and Call Center Reservation System ~ delivering efficient reservation management into the limelight. More... [683 views] Vienna International appoints Roman Straub to the Management BoardVienna International appointed Roman Straub (39) as a new member of the Group's Management Board effective January 1, 2006. More... [1124 views] Thai tourism operators fear 2006 targets unlikely to be metThai tourism operators have warned 2006 targets are unlikely to be met after the government cut its tourism arrivals projections to 13.6 million people from an original 15 million. More... [657 views] Britain's tourism deficit soars despite record visitor numbers25 year review by VisitBritain reveals changing face of Britain’s visitor economy. VisitBritain, the national tourism agency, has today published a 25 year review of inbound tourism, which for the first time reveals the trends that have seen the sector moving from a surplus to a £17 billion deficit even though visitor numbers have more than doubled over the period. More... [797 views] A Burgeoning Number of New Hotel Brands Being Rolled Out in ChicagoIt is one of a burgeoning number of new brands being rolled out in Chicago and across the nation as the hospitality industry moves solidly into expansion mode. More... [883 views] Malaysia launches Visit Malaysia Year 2007Aiming to attract 20 million tourists, Malaysia unveiled its 2007 campaign. With the tagline “Malaysia Welcomes the World,” the country’s New Year celebrations and revelry coincided with the official launch of the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 campaign. More... [767 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 4, 2006Revenue Management 2006 - The Risk and RewardsI know that you are out there – the ones who will address that nagging worry in the back of their mind after the holiday hoopla is over – can we really achieve that budget in 2006? The answer is yes and no – there is no reward without risk. If ever there ever was a year with a little wiggle room for taking risks in your revenue management strategy, this is it. By Carol Verret More... [2085 views] For Hotel Staff, Competent Trumps CuteWhen your boutique hotel is as gorgeous as a supermodel, the last thing you want is to muck it up with employees who aren't runway material. Or at least that was the thinking behind the chic hotels that materialized during the go-go 1990's. Who cared if the doorman couldn't be bothered to open the door, or the bathroom attendant was too busy checking herself in the mirror to hand you a towel? What mattered was that the staff could complement the hip décor like creatures from a Calvin Klein ad. By Denny Lee, The New York TImes More... [1095 views] Victoria Hotels & Resorts appoints new Managing DirectorMr. Eric Simard has been named the new Managing Director of Victoria Hotels & Resorts effective July 1, 2006. More... [632 views] New York hotels set wallet-busting recordHotel prices set wallet-busting records in New York City in 2005 after a long, slow recovery from the 2001 terrorist attacks. The average daily price of a room in the city hit $292 in November, according to the hospitality industry analysis firm PKF Consulting. Figures for December weren't yet available, but the city is a lock to break its previous record yearlong average of $237 per night, set in 2000. More... [595 views] This is a new recording: Souped-up wake-up callsYou're in a strange bed when the phone rings, rousing you from sleep. You pick it up and hear a slow drawl saying, "Good morning, this is Tom Bodett using one of mankind's greatest inventions, the telephone, to deliver one of the worst: the wake-up call. Sorry 'bout that." Indeed, the wake-up call is one of those necessary, if not always welcome, hotel amenities. By Jayne Clark, USA TODAY More... [1058 views] CDL Hotels NZ chairman retiresTsang Jat Meng, the 72-year-old chairman of CDL Hotels New Zealand and CDL Investments New Zealand, has announced his retirement after only six months in the post. More... [774 views] Harrah's, Starwood and Baha Mar Resorts Ltd. Announce $1.6 Billion Joint Venture for Development of Baha Mar,Baha Mar Resorts Ltd. announced an unprecedented joint venture with two of the world's best-known gaming and hospitality companies -- Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. -- to create the Caribbean's largest single-phase destination resort. Baha Mar will establish a new blueprint for resort development, representing the largest, single hospitality investment in the region, and creating a unique resort metropolis in terms of its setting, design, operation, and services. More... [792 views] Thai Spa Gears Up For The World Market In ISPA 2006A selection of Thai world-class spa products and concepts are set to be unveiled to the global spa marketplace during the ISPA 2006 Thailand International Spa & Wellness Conference and Exhibition to be held on May 3-5, 2006 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand. More... [662 views] Marriott Sells $246 Million of LandMarriott International Inc. said Friday it has closed the sale of $246 million worth of land that underlies 75 Courtyard by Marriott hotels, creating a pretax gain of $17 million for the year. More... [640 views] Condo hotels hot in lodging industryWith the U.S. hospitality industry still recovering from the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, condo hotels are a hot component of the lodging industry. More... [735 views] design hotels announces 11 new membersdesign hotels(TM) is delighted to announce an expanded 2006 portfolio, featuring 11 new members. The portfolio, composed of 137 members in 41 countries now offers an even more colourful palette of destinations and experiences for the independent traveller. More... [1034 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 3, 2006Hilton Boss David Michels to leave end of February; Hotels disposal earns him a £6m windfall;Hilton Group's outgoing chief executive David Michels stands to make up to £6m from share options after the group finally clinched the long-awaited sale of its hotels arm to the US business Hilton Hotels for £3.3bn in cash yesterday. Chris Bell, the head of Ladbrokes, will take over from Mr Michels when the deal completes at the end of February More... [1230 views] Top Ten Global Issues and Challenges In the Hospitality Industry for 2006At the recent ISHC (International Society of Hospitality Consultants) Annual Conference held in San Diego, California, ISHC Members participated in a series of roundtable discussions to identify the ISHC Top Ten Global Issues and Challenges in the Hospitality Industry for 2006. While there were many issues discussed, in the final voting the membership identified the following top ten issues as the ones that can be expected to potentially have the greatest impact on the industry in 2006. More... [2095 views] Top Destinations 2005We stay at great hotels the way most other people eat home-cooked meals: We do it all the time. But don't think we are blasé about it or take our good fortune for granted. We don't. In fact, the only tough part, aside from convincing our editors that it's worthwhile to pay to send us to five-star resorts in the Caribbean, is coming up with our list at the end of the year in which we are compelled to pick those hotels or resorts we liked most.
We suppose it is our editors' way of getting back at us...
By
Sophia Banay, Forbes.com
More... [1731 views] Hospitality has sex appealWhether it be comely lasses, gliding along the beach, or a catch phrase for Las Vegas, "shussing" the mountain, or Brooke Shields and her Calvin Kleins, we know that sex sells. In our business, we showcase the senses, stimulate the expectations and hopefully deliver the goods — the measure of your Hospitality Performance. Sex appeal comes in many forms. By John Hendrie More... [1121 views] Hilton COO Sees 7% Growth For Combined Co In 2007Hilton Hotels Corp. expects a 7% growth rate for the company starting in 2007 presuming it completes the acquisition of the lodging business of Hilton Group PLC for about $5.7 billion. Executives with the lodging giant also said the company will continue to focus on management and franchise fee revenue and reduce its property ownership. More... [1007 views] Hilton boss eyes new horizons after sale of hotelsThe sale of Hilton International to Hilton Hotels Corporation (HHC) of America for £ 3.3 billion will bring down the curtain on David Michels's 40-year career in the hotel industry. Although Hilton Group, where he is chief executive, will be left with Ladbrokes, the bookmaker, once the hotel sale goes through, the business already has a more than capable boss in Chris Bell, and Michels is surplus to requirements. More... [804 views] Singapore: Hotel room rates set to rise by up to 25%Conditions looking good as occupancy stays high and as Singapore prepares for a string of international conferences More... [1377 views] St. Regis Hotel, Shanghai Named One of the Best Companies to Work For in ChinaSt. Regis Hotel, Shanghai was named “Best Companies to Work For – China” in WorkChina™ 2005 survey conducted jointly by Watson Wyatt Consultant Ltd.and Fortune China Magazine. We were the only hotel in China winning the award under the category of “International Companies”. More... [936 views] Hong Kong: Closed Mandarin Confident In Luxury MarketThe Mandarin Oriental hotel - which closed last week for an eight-month, US$140 million facelift - is optimistic the market for luxury hotel rooms will remain buoyant, allowing it to take advantage of renewed demand when it reopens next year. More... [679 views] 
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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: January 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 31, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 30, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 27, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 26, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 25, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 24, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 23, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 20, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 19, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 18, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 17, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 16, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 13, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 12, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 11, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 10, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 9, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 6, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 5, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 4, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: January 3, 2006
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