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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: February 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 28, 2006Kiosks: Serving the hospitality businessHospitality technology combined with marketing strategy has evolved to provide for an enhanced guest service experience through self-service options. Sudip Mukherjee describes how hoteliers can enhance their business through kiosks More... [1128 views] Mate, it’s a bloody ripper adWarning: Yeoh Siew Hoon’s article is rated PG. Profane language is used liberally throughout, so reader discretion is advised. More... [1690 views] The Maverick: The boutique hotels that risk going out of fashionThe boutique hotel industry has finally come of age. Twenty-one years after it was invented by Ian Schrager, a nightclub entrepreneur, in New York, his business is going public. But the company he created, Morgans Hotel Group, will have to cope without him; he resigned as chief executive last June. It will be interesting to see if the group can retain its cutting edge, especially as the segment has become steadily more crowded. More... [1033 views] Branding with History: Historic Hotels Find Ways to Build a Competitive AdvantageOwners and operators of historic hotels have become more creative in their efforts to develop and maintain long-lasting competitive advantages for their properties. Recent operating data shows above-market performance for historic hotels in the U.S. More... [843 views] Hotel boom hits Malaysian capitalNew hotels are shooting up around the Malaysian capital's iconic Petronas Twin Towers, in a building boom fuelled by a bullish outlook for the economy and tourism industry, industry experts say. At least four new hotels are under construction in Kuala Lumpur, which is seeing inner-city property prices surge for the first time since the regional economic crisis of the late 1990s. More... [961 views] Check In, Check Out: Hanoi: Hilton Hanoi OperaThe infamous "Hanoi Hilton," where Senator John McCain spent five and a half years during the Vietnam War, has been largely demolished. Only a small museum remains of the Hoa Lo prison, involuntary housing for 300 American pilots captured in the conflict. The Hilton Hanoi Opera, open since 1999, takes pains to not celebrate a connection to Hoa Lo, even if the hotel's Web site is hanoi.hilton.com. Tourists still drop in to ask if the prison was located there, or at least nearby — but none of the guests, the concierge assured during a recent stay, confuse the hotel with a prison. More... [674 views] HSMAI, NYU, TIG Global Offer Free On-line Report on Internet Marketing and DistributionAn insightful online survey of sales and revenue managers explores how Internet marketing and distribution is being handled by the U.S. Presented by the HSMAI Foundation, NYU and TIG Global, the “Survey of Attitudes and Approaches: Hotel Internet Marketing and Distribution” is a free, comprehensive overview of the current attitudes about costs and benefits of online distribution from a unit level perspective in the hotel industry. More... [632 views] Langham Hotels International Wins 2006 PATA Gold AwardLangham Hotels International (LHI) has won the prestigious 2006 PATA Gold Award, organised by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), in the Travel Advertisement - Electronic Media category for the group's first TV commercial titled "The Butler", first released in November 2005. More... [649 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 27, 2006Finding Your Dream JobBerch Parker traded pixels for a pistol, quitting his job as a vice president at an educational software company to become a sheriff's deputy. Many people fantasize about chucking it all to follow their heart, launch a new career and begin a better life. Parker did it. He'll soon move from his current assignment at the county jail to the patrol division, fulfilling his dream of being a street cop. By Scott Reeves, Forbes.com More... [1139 views] How do hotels reward loyal guests?While really discerning hotel guests prefer to be treated like a special guest, many travelers relish the idea of harvesting points, miles and other prizes for staying at certain hotels. By Alfred Borcover, Special to the Chicago Tribune
More... [2116 views] Festive Bonus Ball For ExecutivesIt is that time of year when everyone is eagerly awaiting their bonus. HVS looks at what bonus awards are based upon and at how closely they fall in line with set targets. More... [950 views] Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter 2005 ResultsRevPAR Increased 11.8% Driven By Solid U.S. and International Performance More... [539 views] CUBE is everything – except ordinary: functional design and simplicity of form define the CUBE hotel architecture.CUBE – The Homebase for young and young-at-heart sport enthusiasts. CUBE – an innovative hotel concept combining sport, entertainment, design and community. CUBE stands for unconventional architecture and urban design in the middle of a vast mountain landscape. More... [1240 views] Aruba Invests Over $230 Million in TourismThe Aruba Tourism Authority, together with its private sector partners, is forging ahead in 2006 with major investments in its tourism product totaling over $230 million. Expansions and renovations encompass virtually every sector of the travel industry, from the airport and cruise terminal to hotels, spas and restaurants. More... [748 views] I repeat, no more Cheney jokes pleaseI have never been one to follow the crowd but what the heck, there’s always the exception. By Yeoh Siew Hoon More... [898 views] InterContinental Hotels Group to Manage World’s Tallest Hotel in NanjingInterContinental Hotels Group announced the signing of four new management contracts with Shanghai Greenland Group, one of the top three real estate and property management companies in China. The deals include an InterContinental hotel in Nanjing which will be the world’s tallest hotel, one Holiday Inn property in Xi’an and two Express by Holiday Inn hotels in Shanghai, representing a total of more than 1,400 rooms. More... [1305 views] US Hotel Supply Growth In CheckBarring an unforeseen catastrophic event, our PKF Consulting/Torto Wheaton Research Fall 2005 Hotel Outlook forecast calls for growth in demand each year from 2005 through 2008 at a 2.5 percent compound annual growth rate. Changes in supply and demand patterns are the two factors that cause shifts in the hotel industry cycle. Currently, most hotel owners, operators, and analysts are bullish with regards to the short- and intermediate-term outlooks for the lodging industry. By Robert Mandelbaum, PKF More... [635 views] Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco Appoints Doug Housley As General ManagerFour Seasons Hotel San Francisco recently welcomed Mr. Doug Housley as General Manager, to oversee the daily operations and management of the 277-room, five-star property, located in the heart of the city's Yerba Buena District. More... [1308 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 24, 2006When Will The Bubble Burst?This past year as I have attended many hotel investment conferences around the world, the feelings of hotel owners, lenders and operators were euphoric. Occupancies are up, room rates are growing faster than inflation, hotels are making profits, money is cheap and the industry is having fun again. Even with this upbeat outlook, it is human nature to wonder: When Will The Bubble Burst? More... [1222 views] Web travel bookings cut out middlemenInternet savvy travellers are increasingly researching travel agency websites and then booking directly with airlines and hotels, a survey shows. Internet monitors Hitwise said although website visits to online travel agents remained stable in 2005, visits to hotel and airline websites grew almost 20 per cent. More... [866 views] Sri LankaAmanresorts never fails in its judgment of location and the point of a journey, two strengths that ensure wherever the group goes the move is watched with interest by travel and hotel players. Its idea in southern Sri Lanka, where it opened its first hotel, Amangalla, in Galle Fort, followed soon after by Amanwella in Tangalle, hits the nail on the spot yet again. By Raini Hamdi More... [883 views] Nakheel to launch global hotel & resort companySultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman Nakheel announced the formation of Nakheel Hotel & Resorts, a new hotel and resort investment company which will acquire and develop a dynamic portfolio of properties in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Russia and the CIS. The Company's initial portfolio of projects will include The Trump Hotel & Tower Palm Jumeirah (800 unit condo-hotel development), a 150 room Boutique Hotel & Spa with 100 private villas and beach condos on The World, a 400 room Hotel & Resort in Djibouti, and a 200 room hotel with 200 luxury serviced residences on The Palm Jumeirah. More... [869 views] The flying luxury hotel of tomorrowCruise ship will sail through the air, not the water. This is not a Blimp. It's a sort of flying Queen Mary 2 that could change the way you think about air travel. It's the Aeroscraft, and when it's completed, it will ferry pampered passengers across continents and oceans as they stroll leisurely about the one-acre cabin or relax in their well-appointed staterooms. By Joshua Tompkins, CNN More... [1278 views] Jumeirah appointed to manage Shanghai's most prestigious new luxury hotel developmentJumeirah, the dynamic and rapidly growing luxury hospitality group, manager of the world famous Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai, has been appointed by Shanghai Lixing Hotel Limited, a joint venture between Shanghai Hotel Investments Limited and Shui On Private Group, to manage Shanghai's most prominent and prestigious new hotel development in the downtown Luwan District. More... [1025 views] InterContinental Hotels Group appoints new Area Director of Sales and Marketing, UAE & QatarInterContinental Hotels Group announces the appointment of Sean Walwyn as the Group’s new Area Director of Sales and Marketing, UAE and Qatar. More... [744 views] Super 8 Hotels China Chief Executive Named Top Leader in Chinese Hospitality IndustryThe Super 8 Hotels China chief executive officer, Mitchell Presnick, was honored this month as one of 2005's "10 Most Influential People in the Chinese Hospitality Industry" at a ceremony in the prestigious Diao Yu Tai State Guest House in Beijing. More... [653 views] Choice Hotels International Promotes Dan Couture to Regional Vice President, Extended Stay DevelopmentChoice Hotels International recently announced the promotion of Dan Couture to the position of regional vice president, extended stay development. In his new position, Couture will oversee the company’s newly created national extended stay franchise sales force and be responsible for overseeing the strategic growth of both the MainStay Suites and Suburban brands in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. More... [621 views] San Francisco Bay Hotel Collection Presents Holiday Donations to Local Non-ProfitsFor the second year running, the San Francisco Bay Hotel Collection has presented local non-profits with thousands of dollars on
behalf of the Collection's clients.
More... [701 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 23, 2006Selling Up! Taking Group Room Revenue To A New Level!2006 is the year for hotels to maximize their revenue opportunities. Demand is high and new supply is low - new supply currently in the pipeline will begin entering the market in late '06 and '07. It is clearly a 'sellers' market this year! Hotel sales departments clearly have an opportunity! By Carol Verret More... [1375 views] MeriStar to be acquired by Blackstone Group for $2.6BMeriStar Hospitality Corp. Tuesday agreed to be acquired by an affiliate of The Blackstone Group for roughly $2.6 billion. More... [710 views] Ten Things That Will Change The Way We LiveThere are inventions that people can all benefit from, and then there are inventions that have truly altered the course of history. In the former category, the automatic coffee maker, for example, is a wonderful device: ingenious and capable of brewing some fine java. But had it never existed, it would not have really mattered. The same might be said for the microwave oven, the hair dryer, laser keratotomy, REITs, the Xbox and the ATM machine. All of which are very nice, but we could have gotten along just fine without them. By Breckinridge Ely, Forbes.com More... [1524 views] Loews CEO downplays IPO or sale of Loews HotelsLoews Corp Chief Executive James Tisch on Thursday downplayed speculation the conglomerate might spin off or sell its Loews Hotels unit. "There is an awful, awful lot that goes into any decision to take any company public, or to sell it," Tisch said on a conference call, in response to an analyst's question. "At this point in time, we just don't see the benefits of monetizing our hotel interest." More... [638 views] Premiere at the ITB Berlin 2006: ITB Hospitality DayInnovative concepts for the hotel sector at the ITB Convention Market Trends & Innovations on 9 March 2006 – all-day event for the first time More... [807 views] Bali to host PATA Travel Mart 2007PATA Travel Mart 2007 (PTM07) will take place in Bali, Indonesia. September/October 2007 dates will be announced soon. Bali hosted PTM in 1985 and 1989 and the 53rd PATA Annual Conference in 2003. Jakarta hosted PATA Annual Conferences in 1963 and 1974. Indonesia is keen to once again host a world-class travel trade event. More... [547 views] The Ritz-Carlton Beijing, Financial Street To Open This FallAt 50 Square Meters, Guest Rooms Are The Most Spacious Among Luxury Hotels More... [1104 views] InterContinental Hotels eyes growth in Latin AmericaInterContinental Hotels Group Plc -- the world's largest hotelier -- plans to take advantage of economic stability in Latin America and the Caribbean this year by opening 20 hotels, a top company executive said. More... [734 views] New Mexico & Delaware receive their first Staybridge Suites hotelsInterContinental Hotels Group, the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms, announced today that Staybridge Suites has opened the doors of its 88th and 89th all-suite hotels in Las Cruces, N.M. and Newark, Del., the brand’s first entrée into these markets. More... [511 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 22, 2006Online Travel Gets PersonalA Tripadvisor.com user posted a picture of himself posing in the bathroom of his London hotel room. Despite how that might sound, there's nothing dirty about it, unless you count the fact that in the picture he's filling up a bucket with water to help him flush the toilet. See, in his review of the Garden View Hotel, the user from Barcelona says that the toilet wouldn't flush without pouring a bucket of water on top to get the plumbing moving. By Matt Rand, Forbes.com More... [1023 views] Four Star vs Mobil Four StarWhat do these terms really mean? Are they synonymous, or is there a significance difference? I chose to publish this article because of several recent inquiries and requests for help and clarification. These calls and emails have come from hotel operators, attorneys, and members of the media; apparently not all the media is involved in the 'mystery shooting' investigation surrounding Vice President Cheney. More... [887 views] Hilton retains 'Leading Hotel Choice' crown in 2005 BDRC Middle East Business Guest SurveyHilton International has once again confirmed its market leadership with two accolades; the 2005 BDRC Middle East Business Guest Survey, where it has retained its top ranking for the second consecutive year as 'Leading Hotel Choice' for the Middle East region, and 'Best Hotel Chain in the Middle East' at the Business Traveller Germany 2005 Awards for the fourth year running. More... [645 views] It’s minus five and you get a sleeping bag, so why is Sweden’s Ice Hotel so popular?H alfway through my night in Sweden's famous Ice Hotel I got up to go for a pee, hit my head on a frozen archway and felt a spray of snow trickle shockingly down my exposed neck. You wouldn't normally expect this from a £230-a-night room, yet 12,000 people fetch up here each winter, 100 miles beyond the Arctic Circle, for exactly this kind of experience. By Nicholas Roe, The First Post More... [937 views] InterContinental Hotels & Resorts continues global expansion in 2006 - Nine new hotels scheduled to open in key markets around the worldInterContinental Hotels Group, the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms, continues to increase global distribution of its premium brand – InterContinental Hotels & Resorts. In the coming year, nine new InterContinental Hotels & Resorts are currently scheduled to open around the world in the United States, China, Europe and the Middle East. More... [941 views] Hilton Garden Inn Announces Best of the Brand Awards for 2005Hilton Garden Inn saluted its top hotel performance award winners for 2005 during a presentation held at the brand's General Manager Conference on February 8-10, 2006, in Houston, TX. More... [693 views] HSMAI Sets Date For 6th Travel Internet Marketing Strategy Conference In New York City, April 19, 2006The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International’s (HSMAI) Travel Internet Marketing Strategy Conference, one of the most successful events on the annual event roster, will be held for the sixth time in New York City on April 19, 2006 at the Hilton New York. More... [528 views] PATA Announces 2006 Gold Awards WinnersThe Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2006 PATA Gold Awards. This year the awards honour the achievements of 28 travel-related organisations and individuals. The winners will receive their awards during the 55th PATA Annual Conference in Pattaya, Thailand, April 23-27, 2006. More... [628 views] Four Seasons Posts Historical Breakdown of its Management OperationsFour Seasons Hotels Inc. announced that it has posted a breakdown of its management operations revenues on a historical basis on its website. More... [1295 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 21, 2006If you build it, they will come…not!About twice a week now I am contacted by a hotel General Manager or Marketing Director who has seen some of the recent research figures for hotel internet revenues that says something like “In 2005 hotel revenues from the internet were 25.0% of all hotel room revenues…”. The conversation very quickly gets to “I’ve just checked my on-line revenues and they are nowhere near that. What can we do?” By Keith Paulin More... [1578 views] Robert Johnson makes history with hotel deal following 1.7 billion transactionBET founder is now largest black owner of hotels following 1.7 billion transaction. BET founder Robert L. Johnson has again entered history books. The first African American to own a cable network has just become the country's largest African American owner of hotels following a $1.7 billion deal involving his investment firm. More... [783 views] Check In, Check Out: Hong Kong: Four SeasonsOpened in September, the 399-room Four Seasons Hong Kong caps the final phase of development for the city's International Finance Center (IFC), a grand business and shopping complex parked on the Central neighborhood's waterfront. The hotel isn't the company's first foray here — Four Seasons managed the Regent before InterContinental Hotels bought it out in 2001 — but it is the first major new hotel to open in Hong Kong in 15 years. More... [1047 views] The Great Indian Hospitality Boom - Is it for Real?Has India reached its peak in terms of hospitality development project potential and are most cities in India now in an oversupply situation? What is a prudent market positioning and entry strategy for India? By Siddharth Thaker, HVS International More... [968 views] Indian Hotel Industry Survey 2004-2005The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations (FHRAI) - Indian Hotel Industry Survey is an annual publication, and is India's most comprehensive and, indeed, most authoritative report on operating and financial data for the hotel industry By HVS International More... [818 views] Hotel won't rue its policy on looA Transvestite has claimed discrimination by a Melbourne hotel for a ban on using the women's toilet. More... [843 views] Hotels corner market on online bookingsHotel companies have gained control of online sales despite fears years ago that independent Web sites would take the majority of business. Hilton Hotels and Marriott International executives, speaking this week at the Reuters Hotels and Casinos Summit held in Los Angeles, said they are not dependent on travel agencies for sales but find such outlets helpful to unload last-minute bookings that otherwise would have gone unsold. More... [724 views] Move to cut hotel group staff by 40%A voluntary severance package aimed at reducing the workforce at Great Southern Hotels (GSH) by more than 40% could be a key step in selling the loss-making hotel group, according to government sources. More... [677 views] Rezidor SAS Hospitality Opens First Park Inn in AzerbaijanRezidor SAS Hospitality, the Brussels-based multi-brand hospitality company, announces the opening of its first Park Inn hotel in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), Park Inn Azerbaijan, located in the city of Baku. More... [571 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 20, 2006Most Dangerous Destinations 2006The world has always been a dangerous place. From the black plague to avian flu, Attila the Hun to Osama bin-Laden, Mount Vesuvius to the Indian Ocean tsunami--and let's not even mention biological or nuclear warfare--people and cultures are eternally prone to natural disaster, social upheaval and just plain killing each other. Some places have it worse than others. By Sophia Banay, Forbes.com More... [2102 views] The Truth Is…Busting Through The Barriers To WOWThe moments of truth are so precious in every interaction with your guest. The ones which cut across most businesses are: Hello - Welcome - I will do what it takes to WOW - Thank You - Good Bye; The human component elevates these above mechanical ‘Moments of Truth”, even as those have great impact. I was in Denver recently and stayed at a respectable mid-price property. More... [1402 views] Howard Johnson appoints Peter L Herweck as Director of Operation – China regionPeter L Herweck has joined Howard Johnson Hotels & Resorts as Director of Operation – China, based in Shanghai and responsible for all operational affairs in the region. More... [1015 views] Hilton to return £4bn to shareholdersHilton Group, the hotels and betting company, is set to return around £4bn to shareholders in the wake of the sale of its hotels arm to its US sister company. The board will meet tomorrow to sign off the cash bonanza, which will be announced along with its full-year results on Thursday. More... [733 views] Middle East hotel performance wins goldWith an impressive 21% growth in revenue per available room (revPAR), the Middle East region was, for the second year in a row, the best performing region in the world during 2005, according to the HotelBenchmark™ Survey by Deloitte. More... [692 views] South Africa's popularity drives double-digit hotel growthSouth Africa is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. As a holiday destination it has it all – an exotic combination of landscapes, people, history, wildlife and culture – making it increasingly popular. Even over recent years, which have been amongst the most difficult ever experienced in world tourism, South Africa’s international arrivals have continued to grow. More... [745 views] Dieter Gamper Appointed General Manager of Howard Johnson All Suites Hotel ShanghaiDieter Gamper has been appointed General Manager of All Suites Hotel Shanghai, announced Wilburt Chang, Chairman and CEO of Howard Johnson Hotels and Resorts. More... [998 views] China, India to lead Asia Pacific business travel marketChina and India will lead Asia Pacific business travel market, according to Carlson Wagonlit Travel survey released Monday. The survey showed that business travel is expected to grow this year. Some 45 percent Chinese interviewees said they will travel more frequently than the previous year. More... [739 views] The Evolution of the Meritus Corporate IdentityMeritus Hotels and Resorts corporate identity evolves in conjunction with its recent renovations and new project developments. The new look and feel is part of a robust growth plan to re-position the Meritus brand into the 5-Star arena. It is aiming to capitalize on its Asian heritage and to aggressively compete against international brands. More... [654 views] Benchmark Hospitality Launches "Chairman's Award of Excellence"Benchmark Hospitality International has launched a new company-wide initiative to recognize extraordinary employee contributions to their communities and the organization -- the "Chairman's Award of Excellence." Burt Cabanas, chairman & chief executive officer, made the announcement. More... [517 views] The Leading Hotels of the World Adds 37 New MembersThe Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd., the preeminent luxury hospitality company representing the finest hotels, resorts and spas in the world, has announced the newest members accepted into its organization. More... [1317 views] Host Marriott Selling the Fort Lauderdale Marina Marriott and the Swissotel The Drake, New YorkHost Marriott Corporation announced that in two separate transactions it has sold the Fort Lauderdale Marina Marriott hotel and that it has reached a definitive agreement to sell the Swissotel The Drake, New York. The total gross sale proceeds from both transactions are expected to approximate $586 million. More... [696 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 17, 2006Hilton sees growth in China, IndiaHilton Hotels Corp. will look for partners in China and India who are willing to do large scale development of branded hotels as the company seeks to expand into those markets, its president said on Tuesday. More... [1007 views] J. David Greydanus Named Senior Vice President - Waldorf=Astoria Collection Brand Management for Hilton Hotels CorporationJ. David Greydanus has been named senior vice president - brand management for Hilton Hotels Corporation's recently unveiled The Waldorf=Astoria Collection(R). He most recently served as senior vice president - brand management for Embassy Suites Hotels. More... [778 views] Spain, the World's Second Most Popular Tourist Destination Accounted for over 53 Million Visitors.Spain is, after France, the second most popular tourist destination in the world. In 2004, its arrivals market rebounded after a difficult 2003 to exceed well over 53 million, leaving the US in a somewhat distant third place worldwide. Above average growth in 2004 has strengthened the Spanish position, although an over dependence on the UK and Germany (the source of half of all its incoming market) remains. More... [985 views] Celadon International Hotels takes over Management of a new luxury hotel in Hue, VietnamVietnam ’s first international hotel management group, Celadon International Hotels, has signed an agreement to manage a new luxury hotel in Hue, the ancient capital and UNESCO-listed World Heritage city. The new Celadon Hotel Hue, the first hotel to come under the new company’s branding, will be a superb 5-star property when it opens later this year. More... [772 views] Dubai to host largest ever gathering of Food and Hospitality professionalsOver 1,800 companies represented and 30,000 visitors set to attend GulfFood 2006. More than 30,000 trade visitors from over 120 countries will gather in Dubai for the 11th Gulf Food, Hotel and Equipment Exhibition and Salon Culinaire next week, making it the largest-ever gathering of food and hospitality professionals in the region, it was announced today. More... [784 views] The UK Has the Largest Market for Gap Travel - Accounting for an Estimated GBP 2.5 Billion a YearThe global gap year travel market involves around 1 million to 1.5 million trips per year. The biggest market for gap travel is the UK, which is estimated to spend in the region of GBP 2.5 billion annually. More... [620 views] Rendezvous Hotels & Resorts announces completion of major re-branding initiativesRendezvous Hotels International Pte Limited trading as Rendezvous Hotels & Resorts International (“Rendezvous”), a subsidiary of the Singapore listed public company, The Straits Trading Company Limited, has competed its 12 month re-branding project to better reflect the organisation’s strong positioning and growth strategies. More... [893 views] World-Class Chefs to Perform at Cornell Hotel SchoolA select number of Cornell Hotel School students will work side-by-side with three distinguished chefs this semester to create exquisite dining experiences at Ristorante Banfi in Cornell's Statler Hotel. More... [670 views] Le Meridien Continues Expansion in Asia Pacific with Announcement of a New Hotel in PattayaFirst Le Meridien Hotel Signing in Asia Pacific since Starwood's Recent Acquisition of the Brand. Le Meridien Pattaya Resort will be Starwood's 17th hotel in Thailand More... [952 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 16, 2006The grass is always greener - good retention strategies can break the mythThere have been a slew of articles recently about the crisis of Human Capital. Advisory Boards, Associations, pundits all decry the turnover figures within Hospitality (50%), point to the changing and contracting labor pool, note the Unions cranking up enlistment activities, and government on the local, state and national stage legislating “living” wage and benefits. By John Hendrie More... [935 views] Macau, the 'Las Vegas of the East' Targeting 60,000 More Hotel Rooms in Ten YearsOnce a backwater for hardcore gamblers, the former Portuguese colony of Macau is rising fast as Asia's entertainment and casino capital. Some now call Macau the "Las Vegas of the East," and Macau's gaming revenues are on par with those of the Las Vegas Strip. More... [725 views] InterContinental Hotels Group signs 4,500 rooms in landmark China dealInterContinental Hotels Group signed a landmark deal with Chengdu International Exhibition & Convention Group to manage six hotels in Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou in China’s Sichuan province. This deal significant enhances the group’s market dominance in China. The six hotels – two InterContinental properties, three Holiday Inn properties and one Express by Holiday Inn – comprise a total of more than 4,500 rooms. More... [835 views] John Caparella Promoted to COO of Gaylord Hotels; Rich Maradik Joins Gaylord Entertainment as CIOGaylord Entertainment Co. today announced that John Caparella, senior vice president and general manager of the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center, has been promoted to chief operating officer and executive vice president of Gaylord Hotels. The company also announced that Rich Maradik joined the company as senior vice president and chief information officer More... [734 views] RLJ Development qcquiring 100 hotels from White Lodging Services Corp.Privately held RLJ Development, LLCcontrolled by Robert L. Johnson, founder of BET and owner of the NBA Charlotte Bobcats, announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100 hotels from White Lodging Services Corporation (“WLS”) and its affiliates for approximately $1.7 billion. More... [780 views] 5 star brand revealed by MeritusMeritus Hotels and Resorts, who boast some of the best located properties in Asia Pacific, is rolling out a new identity in conjunction with its recent renovations and new project developments. The new look and feel is part of an aggressive growth plan to re-position the Meritus brand into the 5-Star arena More... [828 views] Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa del Mar Select TravelCLICK’s iHotelier CRS for Enhanced Website Booking SolutionCutting-Edge Booking Engine Complements Website Branding, Increases Online Revenue and Enhances the Guest Experience for Luxury Independent Hotels. TravelCLICK Inc., a leading provider of hotel business process management (BPM) solutions, announced today that Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa del Mar-two of Santa Monica’s premier beachfront properties-have implemented the TravelCLICK iHotelier Central Reservations System (CRS) for website reservations. More... [555 views] Kerzner Announces Fourth Quarter ResultsThe Company reported net income in the quarter of $7.1 million, compared to net income of $8.4 million in the same period last year, resulting in diluted net income per share of $0.19 compared to diluted net income per share of $0.23 in the same period last year. Adjusted net income for the quarter was $13.2 million compared to $9.7 million in the same period last year. Adjusted net income per share in the quarter was $0.35 compared to $0.26 in the same period last year. More... [538 views] Hyatt, JER to acquire London's Great Eastern HotelGlobal Hyatt Corporation and JER Partners today announced the joint acquisition of London¡¦s Great Eastern Hotel from Conran Holdings and the Blackstone Group for an undisclosed price. The transaction is expected to close in March. More... [775 views] James McBride appointed Regional Vice President of Rosewood Hotels & ResortsRosewood Hotels & Resorts, the premier manager of ultra-luxury hotels and resorts throughout the world, is pleased to announce that James McBride has been promoted to Regional Vice President, effective immediately. Mr. McBride will be responsible for overseeing the operations of The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, in New York City; Inn of the Anasazi, A Rosewood Hotel, in Santa Fe, New Mexico; and Little Dix Bay, A Rosewood Resort, in Virgin Gorda. More... [830 views] BITAC Brings Top Hospitality Technology Buyers and Suppliers Together in a Unique ForumHospitality eBusiness Strategies (HeBS), a leading Internet, eMarketing and eDistribution consulting firm for the travel and hospitality industry, announced today the firm has been appointed a leadership role on the steering committee of the Hospitality Technology Buyers Conference (BITAC). More... [854 views] Rockresorts honored with 16 Adrian Awards by HSMAILuxury hotel brand RockResorts was recognized with 16 Adrian Awards by The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI), a prestigious honor bestowed to the best of the best in the hospitality industry for excellence in advertising, direct mail, collateral, public relations, and e-commerce marketing. More... [524 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 15, 2006Latest MasterIndex of Travel Forecasts More than 67.5 Million Outbound Travelers from Asia Pacific in 1H 2006MasterCard International has announced the results of its MasterIndex of Travel report, forecasting continued growth of outbound travelers from across the Asia Pacific region in the first half of 2006. Of the 12 key markets covered, outbound travel from the Philippines and Malaysia is predicted to show the strongest year-on-year growth at 13.5% and 11.2% respectively. Strong growth is also expected from Australia (9.5%), China (9%), Japan (8%) and Korea (7.8%). More... [677 views] Macdonald confirms ‘serious approaches’Macdonald Hotels has appointed Deloitte to advise it on the £200m+ sale of about 20 properties, reports the Times. A spokeswoman for the Scottish group, which is headed by founder and executive chairman, Donald Macdonald, told the paper the move followed ‘some serious approaches from a number of institutional investors looking to buy different portfolios’. More... [690 views] The Hilton Family of Hotels Offers Nine Distinct Hotels with One Simple Philosophy: 'be hospitable(TM)'Conrad Hilton's Philosophy - 'Fill the Earth With the Light and Warmth of Hospitality' - is Behind the Company's Commitment to Genuine, Personalized Service More... [1036 views] Love? That rings a bell…Yeoh Siew Hoon is a bit depressed this week and it’s not on account of the wet weather they’ve been having in Singapore of late. More... [798 views] Starwood Hotels & Resorts in Asia Pacific win rave reviews from readers of Conde Nast Traveler MagazineReaders of Condé Nast Traveler magazine have given the thumbs up to Starwood hotels and resorts in Asia Pacific, by voting them to the Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List 2006. More than 28,000 Condé Nast Traveler subscribers voted for their favorite hotels, resorts and cruise lines around the world to make up the winners in the magazine’s annual Gold List. More... [902 views] Pete Sears Named Senior Vice President Field Operations, Hyatt Hotels CorporationPete Sears has been promoted to senior vice president, field operations for Hyatt Hotels Corporation. In his new role, Mr. Sears is responsible for owner relations, financial performance and standardization of product and services in Hyatt’s 22 hotels in the Midwest region. More... [788 views] Rezidor SAS announces 15 new openings in just 2 monthsRezidor SAS Hospitality, one of the fastest growing and most dynamic hospitality companies in the world, has announced the opening of 15 new hotels across Europe and the Middle East from December 2005 to January 2006. More... [909 views] Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai launches Innovative Dining Experience for Single TravellersThe Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai has launched “Interactions” a new dinner-time experience aimed specifically at individual business travellers looking for conversation and company over dinner. “Interactions is one of the most innovative, yet simple concepts to be introduced in to the Dubai hotel scene, adding another service for our valuable guests.” said Sharon Garrett, director of communications for Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai. More... [1245 views] Senior-level travel executives meet in Las Vegas to discuss the latest trends in online marketingOn 3-4th May at the Venetian in Las Vegas, EyeforTravel will be holding its annual Sales and Marketing in Travel 2006 conference. This event will address the issues that are critical to any sales or marketing professional: getting the right marketing mix, email marketing, content, comparison shopping, CRM and destination marketing are all on the agenda. More... [564 views] Club Med names new Germany MDMed UK and Ireland managing director Chris Woodbridge-Cox is relocating to Frankfurt to head up the company’s German operations. More... [645 views] Monaco - 2005: a year of growth and modernisationThe Tourist & Convention Authority of Monaco (DTC) has published a dynamic and upbeat 2005 Overview Report on tourism in the Principality following its half yearly meeting with its overseas representation offices. The 2005 indicators are excellent, and the results are virtually comparable to those achieved in 2000 (within 7%), which was the best year ever for tourism in Monaco. More... [527 views] Luxury up in lights: Conrad Bangkok to host star-studded awards gala dinner as official Film Festival sponsorThe Conrad Bangkok is set to host the 2006 Bangkok International Film Festival's glittering Awards Gala Dinner, featuring a cavalcade of international and local stars.
More... [663 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 14, 2006Most Romantic Hotels 2006Valentine's Day may ostensibly be about love, but we all know it's really about commerce. It's a time when retailers and restaurants look for a little midwinter lift from lovers of all ages and sexes--and too many of us are too in love, cautious or guilty to have the sense to keep our credit cards in our pockets.
Yet as any Valentine's veteran can attest, you don't always get the best value for your money on cupid's big day. By
Sophia Banay, Forbes.com
More... [1380 views] How Should I Compensate My Sales Manager?Owners and operators have several variables to think about as they determine appropriate salaries, increases and bonuses for their sales managers and team. This is a very common question, and yet one which typically has a complicated answer. But should it? More... [2368 views] Asia Pacific Travel in 2005 - a Year of Robust GrowthThe Asia Pacific travel industry put the shocks of the previous two years firmly behind it in 2005, with record numbers of travel bookings, according to figures released by Abacus International. More... [608 views] DEPA ME Hotel Awards adds new category for 2006 eventThe fifth edition of the DEPA Middle East Hotel Awards has announced the addition of a new category for this year’s line up. The new Award will be given to any owner or developer of a Middle East based mixed use development which includes 4 or 5 star hotel components. More... [533 views] Two Sonnenblick-Goldman Hospitality Transactions Nominated for Single Asset Deal of the Year Award at ALISAt the 2006 Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS) this month in Los Angeles, two of the three finalists in the Single Asset Transaction category of a field of ten submissions were transactions advised by Sonnenblick-Goldman’s Lodging and Leisure Group. More... [571 views] InterContinental Hotels Group Offers Ways to be Extraordinarily Romantic This Valentine’s DayFrom chocolate festivals and complimentary roses to peaceful dinner cruises, InterContinental Hotels Group – the world’s most global hotel company - announces its efforts in ensuring you the perfect valentines. More... [781 views] Starwood Hotels & Resorts sets up regional office in IndiaStarwood Hotels & Resorts announces that it will set up a regional office in New Delhi, India starting this month, led by the newly appointed Vice President, Area Managing Director Stephen Ford. Stephen Ford overseas hotels in India, Nepal and Bangladesh. More... [1610 views] Orient-Express Hotels Acquires 75% Shareholding in Casa de Sierra Nevada, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, its 50th PropertyOrient-Express Hotels Ltd. announced its latest acquisition, a 75 per cent interest in Casa de Sierra Nevada in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, for US$8.4 million. Orient-Express Hotels will manage the property. More... [623 views] Japanese hotel fights pollen with "air shower"With Japan's pollen allergy season about to set in, a Tokyo hotel is setting up a special floor to ease the suffering for sneezing guests. More... [692 views] Buying a hotel room and profiting in BaliIf you are an avid lover of Bali, you have literally limitless alternatives to enjoy the "island of gods". You can visit the island casually as a tourist without any hassle, or, if you are to be part of it, you can buy some property there. If you want a combination of the two, one alternative is open for you now. More... [963 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 13, 2006Balancing mind, body and spirit: why the current spa explosion is still the tip of the icebergThe past decade has seen exponential growth in luxury hotel spas and spa resorts, due mainly to significant customer demand, and the fact that margins on spa operations are among the largest in the hotel industry. So what explains this dramatic rise in customer demand? Although many reasons are often cited, many link the growth primarily to aging baby boomers, and the global growth in high net worth individuals, whose stress levels and need for self-actualisation have increased along with their net worth. By Robert Zimmer and Angela Clarke More... [1225 views] Truce! Ending the War Between Sales and MarketingMost companies we know of have a serious problem: Sales hates marketing, and marketing despises sales. Marketing is having great success generating leads and uncovering opportunity. But sales has no respect for what marketing accomplishes. They take leads grudgingly and when the leads turn into real opportunities they claim those opportunities were already on their radar. There seems to be an unbridgeable gulf between these teams—they have separate goals, separate cultures, and different fears and motivations. By Bill Babcock, Bill Koss and Bill Rozier, MarketingProfs.com More... [1205 views] Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group appoints Liam Lambert as Operations Director, EuropeMandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced the appointment of Liam Lambert as Operations Director, Europe. In his new capacity as Operations Director, Europe, Mr. Lambert will oversee the Group’s current and future portfolio in Europe and the Middle East. More... [1241 views] Overall Satisfaction with Hotels Mixed According to Market Metrix Hospitality IndexKimpton Hotels, Independence Air and Enterprise Rent-A-Car Take Top Industry Categories - Ritz Carlton Recognized for Best Hotel Restaurants; Four Seasons Wins Best Room Service; and W Hotels Voted Favorite Hotel Bar 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 fourth quarter of 2005. Kimpton Hotels, Independence Air and Enterprise Rent-a-Car ranked number one in hotel, airline and rental car industry customer satisfaction, respectively. More... [827 views] Christoph Mares appointed General Manager of Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, LondonMandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced the appointment of Christoph Mares as General Manager of Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. He replaces Liam Lambert, who has been appointed Operations Director, Europe for the Group. More... [1134 views] Accor appoints new General Managers for Australian hotelsAccor hotels in Melbourne, Launceston and the Barossa Valley will welcome new General Managers as part of a series of internal appointments. More... [963 views] Rezidor SAS Hospitality Announces 2005 Financial ResultsRezidor SAS Hospitality, which operates Radisson SAS Hotels & Resorts, Regent International Hotels, Park Inn, Country Inns & Suites and Hotel Missoni in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, announced its results for 2005. The company generated group wide revenue of 587.0 MEUR (approx. $702 million U.S.) as compared to 498.7 MEUR (approx. $596 million U.S.) in 2004; an increase of 17.7 percent. Earnings Before Taxes (EBT) was 31.6 MEUR (approx. $37.8 million U.S.) versus 4.2 MEUR (approx. $5 million U.S.) in 2004. More... [525 views] Strong tourism boosts Marriott hotel chain's earningsMarriott International Inc., one of the world's largest hotel chains, boosted fourth-quarter profit by 25 per cent thanks to a strong global economy driving tourism and business travel, the US-based company said Thursday. More... [562 views] Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts Continues Global Expansion in 2006InterContinental Hotels Group , the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, continues to increase global distribution of its premium brand - InterContinental Hotels & Resorts. In the coming year, nine new InterContinental Hotels & Resorts are currently scheduled to open around the world in the United States, China, Europe and the Middle East. More... [857 views] Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts return to YemenThe international hotel group based in Switzerland continues its expansion into the Middle East with the opening of a new and luxurious 5-star Mövenpick hotel in the Yemeni capital of Sana'a. More... [569 views] Singapore's Royal Plaza on Scotts Hotel conferred Hotel of The Year Asia Pacific AwardIn it’s recent Quality Audit by the Preferred Hotel Group, Royal Plaza on Scotts achieved a remarkable score of 95.2% to perfection. The hotel was evaluated on the organisation’s customer service, Summit service standards, facility cleanliness and facility conditions. More... [934 views] Carlson Hotels Worldwide adds eight new properties to its global portfolio of brands in JanuaryCarlson Hotels Worldwide today announced that the company has added eight new franchise locations to its portfolio of brands in January. These include a new Radisson SAS property in Brussels, Belgium, a new Park Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre in Ontario, Canada, and a new Country Inn & Suites By Carlson in Grand Rapids, Mich More... [526 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 10, 2006Hotel Reviews Online: In Bed With Hope, Half-Truths and HypeAs Web sites that publish guest hotel reviews become more influential, some hotels — from bed-and-breakfasts to large resorts — are going to greater lengths to ensure that their properties are rated highly. Their efforts, analysts say, range from encouraging guests to write flattering reviews to, in extreme cases, submitting bogus recommendations to Web sites. More... [1059 views] You Can't believe Everything You Read - Watch-out for Hidden MotivesThanks to electronic online newsletters and other media, we have access to news and articles from all over the world. This is how we stay current with travel industry trends and learn new ideas. Whether or not we agree with everything that is said, these online publications have become a necessity to those who want to stay informed. By Neil Salerno More... [766 views] Best Bets For Business TripsBusiness trips are like pornography: overpriced, exploitative and highly repetitious. Over time, the red-eye flights, 4 A.M. wakeup calls and indigestion from expense-account dinners tend to blur one trip into the next. Beijing looks a lot like Berkeley--or Berlin or Boston--especially when all one sees of a city is from a hotel meeting room. But breaking the monotony of huddling over spread sheets and pounding at a BlackBerry is possible, even if you only have an afternoon, or a few hours, to spare before your flight home. By Sophia Banay, Forbes.com More... [837 views] International visitors continue to flock to BritainNational tourism agency, VisitBritain, has welcomed international visitor figures for the full year 2005. Almost 30 million international visitors in the UK spent over £14 billion during 2005 – a new record. More... [551 views] U.S. Jumps In To Capture Big Spending Chinese Outbound TouristsTexas is off to China and so is Florida, along with dozens of other proactive tourism offices, tour operators, hotels, resorts and providers of travel from around the globe to participate at the Beijing International Travel and Tourism Market (BITTM) 2006. More... [735 views] Choice Hotels hires Elaine Clancy, Vice President, Corporate & Real Estate DevelopmentChoice Hotels International, Inc. today announced that it has hired Elaine Clancy as vice president, corporate and real estate development. In this new position, Clancy will identify and assess development opportunities in key markets for Choice's hotel brands, with an emphasis on evaluating and recommending investment strategies for the company’s new, select-service upscale brand, Cambria Suites. More... [653 views] InterContinental Dubai gives new meaning to Hands-On ManagementMany employers talk about the importance of employee well-being, but few really put their theories into practice. Until now. InterContinental Dubai has just announced a new initiative that will take the feel-good-at-work factor to new heights. Throughout the month of March, the hotel has teamed up with reflexology and massage specialists Feet First based in Dubai, to offer a foot, head, neck and shoulder massage service to all its staff. More... [978 views] Indonesia Tourism Set To Recover This Year Says UNWTOIndonesia's tourism should start to show signs of "definite improvement" by the second half of 2006, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary-General Francesco Frangialli said following a meeting with the country's president in Jakarta. More... [496 views] Kenya Poor Regulation Hurting Standards in Hotel IndustryThe Government should regulate the number of hotels to avoid oversupply of the services and maintain high standards. Nairobi Serena Hotel general manager Mark Gathuri said more hotels would overshoot demand and reduce rates More... [638 views] Tourism films compete for travel industry’s “Oscars”Short movies on film and video are growing in importance for promoting tourism. The travel and tourism industry has its own "Oscars" and film-makers are competing for awards for the best tourism promotion movies being screened at next month's ITB Berlin travel fair. More... [1242 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 9, 2006Travelers work around fast-rising hotel ratesFaced with the prospect of a record increase in hotel rates, travelers are seeking ways to trim travel costs. A report from consultant PricewaterhouseCoopers issued Monday projects the biggest yearly dollar increase ever in average daily U.S. hotel rates in 2006 — to $95.92 this year, vs. $90.84 in 2005. More... [727 views] Silver nomads on the marchYeoh Siew Hoon caught up with an old friend in Penang – one of those once-in-a-couple-of-years reunions where you try to catch up on each other’s lives in a couple of hours. More... [657 views] Hospitality Media Leaders to Make Up Keynote Panel at Cornell Hotel School's Annual Industry Conference81st annual Hotel Ezra Cornell to be held April 6-9. Who better to answer the hospitality industry's urgent questions than the media leaders who are among the industry's most knowledgeable insiders? Attendees at the 81st Hotel Ezra Cornell will find out on April 7, when these leaders convene a panel to address pressing issues in the industry. More... [562 views] The End Of E-Mail?What's worse than spam, the junk e-mail no one wants yet no one can stop? Perhaps the methods e-mail systems use to fight it. Today, e-mail users already have to delete spam daily from their in-box, then root through a separate folder their e-mail filter has already classified as junk: Better hope your cousin didn't use the word "Viagra" in that last note he wrote. Now Time Warner's America Online and Yahoo! plan on charging marketers who send bulk messages to their users, arguing that the fee will cut down on the come-ons. By Chris Kraeuter, Forbes.com More... [679 views] MBI plans new luxury hotel chain following £63m Scotsman acquisitionA new standalone luxury hotel group is set to be launched in Europe following the acquisition of The Scotsman Hotel Group by MBI International for £63m. More... [683 views] French budget hotel chain soldOne of the largest privately-owned hotel chains in France, Marmotte, has been sold to Didier Ferre, who owns numerous hotels franchised under both the Accor and Louvre Hotel brands. More... [765 views] Southern California-based Kor appoints Carter Donovan new General Manager of landmark property on Union SquareJohn Arnett, President of the Los Angeles-based boutique-hotel operator Kor Hotel Group, is pleased to announce that Carter Donovan has been appointed General Manager for the newest property to join Kor's distinctive boutique portfolio. Donovan began her tenure at the renowned, four-star Campton Place on January 4th of the new year. More... [711 views] Mandarin Oriental to open luxury resort and spa on Hainan Island, ChinaMandarin Oriental Hotel Group today announced that it will manage an exclusive resort currently under development on China’s second largest island and most southern province, Hainan Island. The 292-room resort will open in the second half of 2006. More... [848 views] Benchmark Appoints Robert Zappatelli Vice President of Food & BeverageBenchmark Hospitality International has announced the appointment of Robert Zappatelli as vice president of food & beverage for the leading hospitality management company. He is the first executive to hold this newly created position at Benchmark, and the appointment represents a promotion for him. Sam Haigh, president and chief operations officer, made the announcement More... [627 views] Banyan Tree reveals plans for two more resortsSingapore-based spa and resort operator Banyan Tree has added two new sites as part of its ongoing plans to expand its portfolio of resorts. More... [1184 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 8, 2006Who is In and Who is Out - Global Staff MovementsThe latest update on international Executive Staff Movements... check it out.... More... [3775 views] 2006 Hotel Chains Classification In The 25 European Union CountriesIn preview of the detailed results of the European hotel industry, which is carried out every year by MKG Consulting and published in the February/ March edition of HTR, here is the ranking list of the first 10 chains and the first 10 brands among the 140 chains and the 200 brands established in the European Union. More... [1365 views] Putting out The Ritz: When hotels go condoHoteliers in New York are converting grand old inns to condos. Now Washington has joined the trend, and more will follow suit. More... [970 views] How Much Should Hotel Web Access Cost?Sometimes it's free. Sometimes it's $20 a day. Why? More... [1224 views] The Rules of "Green" MarketingIf you think your customer isn't concerned about environmental issues, or won't pay a premium for products that are more eco-responsible, think again. You may just find an opportunity to enhance your product's performance and strengthen your customer's loyalty—and command a higher price. More... [931 views] Hilton's first Palace Hotel set to offer guests unparalleled luxury and hospitalityGuests will experience unimaginable luxury and traditional Arabian hospitality in the exclusive Qasr al Sharq, Hilton International's first palace hotel, and the first of its kind in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The palace, set to open in Jeddah next month (March 2006), is currently taking delivery of an array of furnishings, accessories, and artwork that is sure to be admired by connoisseurs from around the world. More... [804 views] TIG Global Wins Four HSMAI Adrian Awards for Website Design and Accompanying Online Marketing ProgramsTIG Global also Recently Honored by Washingtonian Magazine and the Washington Business Journal. TIG Global announced receipt of four Adrian Web Marketing Awards from the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI). The 2005 competition recognized the best hospitality and travel websites worldwide based on overall design and functionality and statistical performance objectives, such as ROI and conversion rates. This year's competition attracted more than 1,200 entries from over 35 countries and was judged by a team of experts representing all sectors of the hospitality industry. More... [484 views] InterContinental Hotels Group Strengthens Brand Management and Communications Functions with New HiresInterContinental Hotels Group Asia Pacific has appointed Maria Nakpil as director of brand management and Birte Sebastian as director of corporate communications and public relations. More... [929 views] Horwath reports Dutch hotel industry recoveringThe Dutch hotels report positive news for the first time in years. The occupancy rates have increased in the past year, from 66.7% to 69.1%, and the outlook is that this will continue in the coming year. This is shown in new research by Horwath Consulting. The average room rates remained stable in the past year, but are expected to increase this year. More... [531 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 7, 2006FRONT! Your means to establish the Guest Relationship – guaranteed!We are in the Experience Era. Hospitality businesses, a vibrant segment of Retail, must reconsider how they frame their product and service for the Guest in a sensory fashion. Starbucks is not about coffee. Lexus and Harley Davidson are not about their “wheels”. Some hoteliers lead the way, as do a number of restaurants. Consider Kimpton and W. But, an engaging Experience is in the reach of everyone. By John R. Hendrie More... [1374 views] Dubai hotels keep top slotDubai's hospitality industry continues to boom, despite fears that Dubai's hotels are becoming too expensive and that too many five-star hotels are being built. The average hotel room occupancy levels for the month of December 2005 was 91.5 per cent, up from 85.1 per cent compared with the corresponding month in 2004, according to figures released by the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM). More... [852 views] Whitbread may bid for Travelodge late 2006Leisure group Whitbread is working on a 1 billion-pound bid for privately-owned budget hotel chain Travelodge, The Sunday Times reported. More... [638 views] Perth, Australia - Market OverviewPerth is the Capital of Western Australia (WA), arguably the largest state in the world, covering one-third of the Australian continent and spanning 2.5 million square kilometres. It is also one of the world’s most remote tourist markets. More... [732 views] Hotels in Europe continue to move in the right directionFull year results from the HotelBenchmark™ Survey by Deloitte reveal that revenue per available room (revPAR) across Europe grew 4.5% in 2005 – with all but four European markets reporting an improvement compared to 2004. Although Europe experienced the lowest revPAR growth compared to other regions of the world, absolute revPAR was the highest at €69, primarily due to the strength of the Euro particularly to the US dollar. More... [638 views] For Hawaii hotels, a $3 billion yearHawaii hotels, never fuller, and never before charging so much, raked in $3 billion in room revenue in 2005. That surpasses the previous record year of 2004, when room revenues topped $2.73 billion, by 9.8 percent. More... [531 views] Philippine hotel personnel named number one in worldwide survey on serviceWhen it comes to contentment of guests at hotels around the globe, the Philippines is currently achieving the highest levels of service. The finding, reported in a Market Metrix Hospitality Index (MMHI) survey for the third-quarter of 2005, is based on some 10,000 interviews relating to non-U.S. hotel stays. Philippine hotels and resorts ranked number one with a mark of 89.9 percent in delivering a premier level of satisfaction. More... [972 views] Marriott ExecuStay Introduces New Bedding and Personalized Services to Launch Its New TaglineMarriott ExecuStay, the temporary- housing brand of Marriott International, Inc. , is inviting guests coast-to-coast to experience its new ELITE DREAMER(TM) luxury bedding collection and several personalized touches that help them make their temporary communities their own. More... [786 views] Days Inns - Canada Recognizes Exceptional Hotels and StaffDays Inns - Canada recently presented 24 awards to its top hotels at its conference in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The prominent Awards of Recognition and Chairman’s Awards are presented annually to the leading Days Inns in Canada. “Our owners and their teams continue to excel, and we’re proud to celebrate their success and the continued strong, positive growth of the Days Inn brand,” said Irwin Prince, President & COO, Days Inns - Canada.
More... [654 views] Ice hotel in Romanian wildernessTucked away in a remote valley in Romania's Carpathian mountains, a tiny ice hotel has opened to try and attract tourists and their cash to the unspoilt forests of some of Europe's greatest wilderness. A refuge for brown bears, wolves, bison, lynx and a wealth of other wildlife and plant species found nowhere else, the region needs money to tackle the poverty that environmentalists say could threaten the mountains. More... [697 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 6, 2006Another impressive year for hotel performance across Asia PacificFinal year-end 2005 results from the HotelBenchmark™ Survey by Deloitte show that despite the unsettling start to the year, with the aftermath of the Indian Ocean tsunami, Asia Pacific recorded a healthy increase in revenue per available room (revPAR) of 9.2%. More... [835 views] Tokyo no longer world’s most expensive cityOslo has overtaken Tokyo as the world’s most expensive city in the latest worldwide cost of living survey from the Economist Intelligence Unit. The biannual survey of 130 cities in 90 countries is based on the cost of more than 160 items and services including food, toiletries, clothing, transport, utility bills and domestic help. More... [1520 views] Korea Now a Tourism 'Superpower'The number of Koreans travelling abroad passed the 10 million mark for the first time in 2005, growing at a rate of 14.2% for the year. The upturn helped drive arrivals figures to new heights in popular Korean destinations such as China (PRC), Japan and the USA. The outbound surge was particularly strong in the Korean summer with more than one million Koreans travelling abroad in both July and August, the country's peak outbound season. More... [613 views] ENTER 2006 Technology And Consumer Trends: How Tourism Reacts To Rapid Innovation Strategies“Olympian Innovation” was the overall topic of ENTER 2006, an international conference for Information Technology and Tourism, which took place from January 18-20 in Lausanne/Switzerland., 25.01.2006 More... [692 views] Cornell Tipping Expert advocates industry-wide educational effort to promote Restaurant Tipping NormsDisparities in Tipping Between Blacks and Whites Seen as an Educational Challenge for the Industry. The U.S. restaurant industry has long maintained that there is a disparity in tipping behaviors between black and white patrons. Some servers of both races would rather not wait on tables of black customers, however no one in the industry wants that situation to continue. More... [696 views] MKG Reports An Excellent Winter Season Start For The Main World Leisure DestinationsIn France, the excellent snowfall levels have supported the hotel occupancy level. One year after the tsunami, Indonesia and Thailand record encouraging results. Mauritius, French Polynesia and the Caribbean record good performances. After a record 2004 season, the Egypt destination maintained itself in spite of the attacks. More... [569 views] Taj Hotels opens BLUE in SydneyThe Indian Hotels Company Ltd officially opened and launched its newest acquisition BLUE, Woolloomooloo Bay, Sydney. The 100 room, five-year old hotel, located on The Finger Wharf at Woolloomooloo Bay, was formerly known as the W. The hotel is among the top hotels in Sydney and is Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces' first foray into Australia. More... [826 views] Waldorf=Astoria Collection Launches Web SiteThe Waldorf=Astoria Collection(TM), which was introduced recently with four world-class hotels, announced today that its hotels can be booked online More... [819 views] Intercontinental Hotels Group Launches Industry's First Comprehensive Virtual Concierge Service for Holiday Inn(R) Hotels and ResortsInterContinental Hotels Group the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, today announced implementation of the industry's most comprehensive virtual concierge service, "eHost(TM)," for its Holiday Inn(R) Hotels and Resorts brand. The move, which is the first by a major hotel chain, is part of the Holiday Inn brand's commitment to developing consumer-enabling technology for the ever-growing community of guests who seek products and services online More... [969 views] Omni Hotels to Purchase San Antonio's Acclaimed La Mansion del Rio and Watermark Hotels; Kennedy to Develop Watermark Hotels NationallyPatrick J. Kennedy, Chairman and CEO of La Mansion del Rio, Inc., and Jim Caldwell, CEO of Omni Hotels, have announced the sale of San Antonio's La Mansion del Rio Hotel and the Watermark Hotel and Spa to Omni Hotels, with the transaction expected to close March 16, 2006. More... [573 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 3, 2006Starwood to relaunch brandsStarwood Hotels & Resorts will be relaunching all its brands, including Le Meridien which it has just acquired, throughout this year. The Westin brand, for example, will position itself around the concept of renewal, according to Starwood Asia-Pacific’s vice president sales & marketing, Mr Oliver Bonke. It will offer signature experiences that encapsulate its renewal values. These include Westin Breathe (no smoking in a Westin hotel, not even in the bar, now in practice in the US) and Westin Unwind, a renewal hour ritual at all Westin hotels to symbolise the transition to from day to evening, in order to renew guests’ spirit and put them in the mood to relax. By Raini Hamdi More... [1667 views] Westin touches match to smoke-free trendA move this month by Westin Hotels & Resorts to go smoke-free may open the door to similar policies by competitors. "I think it will be the start of a trend," says Joe McInerney, president of trade group American Hotel & Lodging Association. He says other chains are considering the move to smoke-free hotels. In some instances, he says, the growing tide of state and local anti-smoking regulations may force the move. More... [780 views] Starwood reports fourth quarter and full year 2005 resultsStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. today reported EPS from continuing operations for the fourth quarter of 2005 of $0.70 compared to $0.51 in the fourth quarter of 2004. Steven J. Heyer, CEO, said “I am very pleased with our results this quarter. We beat our top and bottom line expectations and for thirteen quarters in a row our market share has increased. We are moving full speed ahead with all of our strategic initiatives and with the brand building initiatives rolling out across our system, we expect our momentum to continue More... [692 views] Saudi's Kingdom hotel group to launch IPOSaudi group Kingdom Hotel Investments (KHI) said on Wednesday it would launch an initial public offering, which would list on the Dubai International Financial Exchange and the London Stock Exchange. The company, majority owned by Saudi billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, will use the money raised to buy hotels, some of which may be managed by Fairmont Hotels and Resorts. On Monday, Prince Alwaleed and Colony Capital agreed to buy Fairmont for $3.9 billion (2.2 billion pounds). More... [797 views] Blinkers of the world, uniteYeoh Siew Hoon dares you to read this article without blinking, sorry, thinking. More... [769 views] Hotel Andaludia, Santa Barbara's newest luxury property welcomes world class General ManagerLuxury hotel operator Edward Thomas Hotels announces the appointment of Manfred Timmel as general manager of Hotel Andalucía, the 97 room boutique luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. More... [857 views] Hotels are on alert for guests who pilferGuarding against losses. It may be OK for guests to take those little bars of soap and bottles of shampoo. But hotels have to draw the line on most other items, everything from robes to remote controls to lamps and clocks and bed linen, as they try to cut down on losses in an era of ever-rising insurance costs. Loss prevention has always been a problem for the hotel industry. But since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and recent natural disasters, hotels have been forced to pay more for insurance. Couple that with losses from less travel in the wake of Sept. 11 and Hurricane Katrina, and hotels have had no choice but to become even more diligent in curbing losses from theft. More... [964 views] Tight market to choke Australian hotel sales volumesHotel sales volumes this year are unlikely to match the record $1.4 billion chalked up in 2005, despite the healthy outlook for the sector and strong demand from investors. Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels chief executive officer David Gibson said hotel sales volumes were expected to be up to 20 per cent lower this year because assets were tightly held. More... [598 views] MBI International acquires Scotsman Hotel GroupMBI International, a $3.8 billion multinational company with strong interests in the Middle East and Europe, acquires The Scotsman Hotel Group (SHG) in a deal worth £63 million. SHG comprises three boutique hotels; The Scotsman in Edinburgh, 42 The Calls in Leeds and the Hotel de la Tremoille in Paris. SHG was originally launched in 1999 with £90 million ($159 million) invested. More... [677 views] Joie de Vivre Hospitality Named E-Marketer of the Year by TravelCLICK and HSMAI at 49th Annual Adrian AwardsTravelCLICK Inc., a leading provider of hotel business process management (BPM) solutions, in conjunction with the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI), named Joie de Vivre Hospitality as the 2005 E-Marketer of the Year last night at the 49th Annual Adrian Awards Gala. Charlotte St. Martin recognized as Industry Achievement award recipient More... [563 views] International Association of Conference Centres elects Australian Peter Stewart as Global PresidentApproaching the silver anniversary of the International Association of Conference Centres, the IACC-Global Board of Directors has elected Peter Stewart as President. Stewart concurrently serves as Chairman of the Australian Chapter of IACC and is Director of Operations of Macquarie Graduate School of Management, one of Australia’s leading business schools, recognised for its award-winning facilities in North Ryde and the Sydney CBD. More... [494 views] 290 Hoteliers from 38 Countries Joined WORLDHOTELS’ Annual Conference for 2006 in PragueWORLDHOTELS, one of the world’s leading global hotel groups for independent hotels and regional hotel brands, held its Annual Conference 2006 from January 20 to 23, 2006 in Prague, Czech Republic, at the WORLDHOTELS’ property, Corinthia Towers Hotel. The conference attracted 290 hoteliers -including 28 from the Asia Pacific region - representing 90 percent, or 450 hotels, of WORDHOTELS’ membership overall - from 38 countries, which is an increase of almost 30 percent compared to last year, and sets a new record as the largest conference in the company’s history More... [568 views] Horeca 2006 is Set to Kick Start Lebanon’s Hospitality SectorThe 13th edition of Horeca, the leading annual hospitality forum in the Middle East scheduled to take place at BIEL from March 21-24, is set to host 6 international pavilions, 69 international exhibitors and is expecting more than 12,000 visitors varying from locals to foreigners. More... [481 views] Hotel chain pays man to sleepA man is being paid to sleep by a leading hotel chain to test how comfortable their beds are. Travelodge said director of sleep Wayne Munnelly will take a nap in as many of the firm's 25,000 beds as he can in the coming months. More... [963 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 2, 2006Détente in the Hotel Bed WarsThe hotel "bed wars" are over. But are business travelers the winners? Most frequent travelers would probably say they are, citing the remarkable evolution of hotel beds from the no-nonsense affairs of the late 1990's — just mattresses, sheets and bedspreads — to the superpremium sleep "experiences" of today. More... [1070 views] Great Opportunity for Independent Hotels Cash-in on Electronic SalesFor many independent hotels, electronically generated sales are the only viable means to compete in today's hotel business environment. Yet, there are still many independent hoteliers who think that volume electronic sales are out of reach, too costly or too complicated to implement. Perhaps the most frequently asked question I hear is 'I know about electronic sales, but where do I start?' More... [875 views] Hotel Capitalization Rates Continue to PlungeUS Realty Consultants, a national real estate appraisal and consulting firm specializing in the hotel industry, has released its Winter 2006 hotel investor survey. The survey has historically been released annually, but will now be released every six months More... [778 views] Chain Restaurant Industry Pay TrendsThis article discusses executive pay trends within the chain restaurant industry. Recently, HVS completed its annual study of industry pay trends within the Chain Restaurant Industry, the 2005 Chain Restaurant Corporate Annual Report©. Listed below is a selection of our findings that I believe chain restaurant executives will find of interest. By David Mansbach, HVS International More... [1076 views] Hilton Reports Strong Fourth Quarter, Fiscal 2005 ResultsHilton reported fourth quarter 2005 net income of $105 million compared with $65 million in the 2004 quarter. Diluted net income per share was $.26 in the 2005 fourth quarter, versus $.16 in the 2004 period. Two non-recurring items in the 2005 quarter impacted earnings per share by $.04: 1) a net gain of $.06 per share from asset dispositions, and 2) a $.02 per share hedging loss. EPS in the 2004 fourth quarter was impacted by $.01 as a result of an impairment charge on a Red Lion hotel and the sale of two Doubletree properties. More... [490 views] Armani and Emaar plan to build more hotelsItalian fashion designer Giorgio Armani and Dubai's Emaar Properties planned to triple to as many as 30 the number of luxury hotels they developed together on greater-than-expected demand, Emaar's chairman, Mohamed AlAbbar, said yesterday. Armani's Milan-based company last year granted Emaar, the world's largest property developer by market value, the right to build at least 10 luxury hotels and resorts during the next decade for about $1 billion (R6.08 billion). That may triple to $3 billion. More... [820 views] Hotel Leela net up 100% at Rs 32 crores in Q3Hotel Leelaventure Ltd has posted an impressive performance with the net profit for the nine months ended 31st December, 2005 at Rs 63 crores as against Rs 20 crores in the corresponding period in the previous year leading to an increase of 215%. The net profit for the quarter ended 31st December, 2005 is Rs 32 crores as against Rs 16 crores in the corresponding quarter in the previous year, an increase of 100% . More... [571 views] Cendant Hotel Group International Offers Training Through Cornell UniversityCendant Hotel Group International today announced an alliance with Cornell University to provide its international franchisees and their hotel employees with specially priced classroom-based and online hospitality management courses. Traditional classroom courses will be offered through the Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration's Professional Development Program, and Web-based courses will be accessible through eCornell. More... [597 views] New Development Projects for Four Seasons in Barbados, Shanghai, Taipei and MacauFour Seasons Hotels and Resorts has entered into letters of intent for four new development projects in Barbados, Shanghai, Taipei and Macau. “Now with 68 luxury hotels and resorts in 31 countries and more than 20 properties in development, Four Seasons continues to strengthen its position for the present and future,” says Kathleen Taylor, President, Worldwide Business Operations, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “Our strategy continues to focus on obtaining long-term management contracts with owners and investors who share our vision, and who are ready to invest in our future.” More... [1064 views] HCIMA Launches Chip & PIN Website for Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure IndustryA major website designed to give regularly updated guidance and advice to the UK hospitality, tourism and leisure industry on Chip & PIN, has been launched by the Hotel & Catering International Management Association (HCIMA), in conjunction with Northampton-based Kilrush Consultancy – leading specialists in new card payment systems, under the direction of Chip & PIN expert Connie Penn. More... [539 views] South African hotels impressSouth African hotels beat their European, Asian and Middle Eastern counterparts last year by increasing their occupancy rates, a Deloitte survey has found. The Hotel Benchmark Survey found South Africa's hotel occupancy rates had increased to 69 percent last year. This represented growth of 4.4 percent in occupancy rates compared to a negative 1.1 percent in the Middle East, a negative 0.4 percent in Asia and 2.3 percent growth in Europe. More... [608 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 1, 2006Fairmont deal may raise hotel valuations: analystsThe takeover of Canada's Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Inc. could raise valuations of other hotel companies' stocks, as investors speculate there could be more takeovers in the sector, analysts said on Monday. Fairmont said on Monday that Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal and Colony Capital will pay $3.9 billion to buy the company -- a deal that richly values the Toronto-based chain and could do the same for its counterparts elsewhere. More... [866 views] InterContinental to sell $1 bln of hotelsBritain's InterContinental Hotels Group said on Tuesday it was putting two more portfolios of hotels up for sale with a total book value of about 600 million pounds ($1.06 billion). More... [1158 views] Chuck Floyd Appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Hyatt Hotels Corporation25-year Hyatt Veteran Chuck Floyd, 45, has been promoted to Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer for Hyatt Hotels Corporation, based in Chicago. In his new role, Floyd assumes the responsibilities of Hyatt Hotels Corporation's departing president and longtime company executive Ed Rabin, who retired in December. More... [854 views] Hilton Hotels Corporation Announces Appointment of Robert M. La Forgia to EVP & CFOThe Board of Directors of Hilton Hotels Corporation has approved the appointment of Robert M. La Forgia to executive vice president and chief financial officer. La Forgia is located in the Beverly Hills World Headquarters office and reports to Stephen F. Bollenbach, co-chairman and chief executive officer. More... [611 views] Hilton Hotels Corporation Announces Appointments of David A. Thompson to Senior Vice President & Controller and W. Steven Standefer to Senior Vice President - TaxThe Board of Directors of Hilton Hotels Corporation has approved the appointments of David A. Thompson to senior vice president and controller and W. Steven Standefer to senior vice president - tax. Thompson and Standefer are located in the Beverly Hills World Headquarters office and report to Robert M. La Forgia, executive vice president and chief financial officer. More... [745 views] Business travel: A growth yearBusiness travel is on track for another year of modest growth as executives shrug off bomb attacks, avian flu and the demands of airport security, according to a survey of 2,100 executives released Monday. More... [656 views] Demand for Hotel Rooms Expected To Outpace Supply for Some Time"New York, New York, it's a wonderful town. The Bronx is up and the Battery's down.The people ride in a hole in the ground," goes the song from the 1953 Broadway show, "Wonderful Town." Our wonderful town is expecting about 43.3 million visitors this year, which is fueling the demand in the hospitality industry. A report by NYC & Company says the city will be adding more than 4,900 new hotel rooms to its current inventory of 70,639 by the end of 2007. It further says that last year, "the occupancy rate rose to approximately 87% and 22 million room nights booked, an increase of one million over 2004." More... [599 views] Scotland outperforms England and Wales hotel industryHotels in Scotland outperformed both Wales and England in 2005, generating the highest percentage increase in revenue per available room (revPAR), up by 7.1% on 2004 figures according to the HotelBenchmark™ Survey by Deloitte. Occupancy in Scottish hotels remained steady, gaining 1.4% and the average room rate increased from £65 to £68 (5.6%). Aberdeen performed particularly well recording 17.5% growth in revPAR. According to the survey England and Wales recorded 3.4% and 3.2% revPAR growth respectively More... [523 views] Hospitality eBusiness Strategies (HeBS) wins three Prestigious HSMAI Golden Click AwardsHospitality eBusiness Strategies, (HeBS), NYC, today announced receipt of two Silver and one Bronze Merit Award in the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Golden Click and Adrian Web Awards Competition. More... [544 views] ITB Convention - Market Trends and InnovationsDelegates to this year's ITB Berlin will have even greater opportunities than usual to learn about Germany, which is the world's most important outbound travel market, as well as being an increasingly prominent tourism destination. Already in 2004, Germany attracted more than 20 million international tourist arrivals and 45.4 million foreign bednights – an increase of 9.5% over the previous year, which was almost double the European average. More... [695 views] Singapore Tourism Board sets targets for 2006The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) announced its targets for 2006 – to achieve S$12 billion in tourism receipts (TR) and attract 9.4 million visitor arrivals (VA). These targets were announced by Mr Lim Hng Kiang, Minister for Trade and Industry at the Tourism Industry Night, held in one of Singapore’s newest nightspots, Ministry of Sound, to some 300 partners from the public sector, trade and media. More... [547 views] BBC TV series reminds Britons of rich range of quality B&B'sWhat makes a good B&B stand out? Is it the typically English garden, countryside views and full English breakfasts or maybe comfy pillows, extra blankets and cotton sheets? Next week VisitBritain and the BBC will remind the nation of the appeal of England’s quality accommodation in the new series, “B&B the Best”. More... [901 views] 
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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: February 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 28, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 27, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 24, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 23, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 22, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 21, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 20, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 17, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 16, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 15, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 14, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 13, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 10, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 9, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 8, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 7, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 6, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 3, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 2, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 1, 2006
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