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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: March 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 31, 2006US$10 million after, it's the new Westin GrandeWhen you've been around a long time but in various guides, it is often hard for people to accept your new identity. Such is the case, of the Westin Grande Sukhumvit in Bangkok. It’s been carrying that name since February 15, 2003 but some folks still have a tough time remembering that and accepting that it truly is a very different hotel from before. By Yeoh Siew Hoon More... [1080 views] Take to the sky - European fuel prices how are they affecting the tourism industry?Airlines are much more than just people carriers – they are crucial to a country’s competitiveness, taking millions of people to work, business meetings and on vacation. And with every additional cent per gallon slapped on the price of jet fuel resulting in an overall cost to the airlines of US$600m a year, find out how airlines are safeguarding their future. More... [701 views] A Review of South African Hotel Room RatesThe South African hotel industry has achieved a level of growth in recent years that has surpassed other sectors of the economy. The core component of the success of the hotel sector has been the pricing of available rooms More... [825 views] Best WiFi Hotels 2006It's been more than a year since our last investigation of hotels with the Best and Worst WiFi concoctions. What has changed since then is that most hotels have now jumped on the WiFi bandwagon, so most hotels have *some* sort of WiFi solution. The question is what is that solution, and is it any good? Hotels have finally realized that WiFi is a must-have, something that tops the wish list of many potential guests More... [1482 views] Rising rates boost UK hotelsTRI Hospitality Consulting reports London hotels recorded revenue per available room (revPAR) growth of 4.7% to £74.72 last month, compared with just 2.5% to £46.40 in the regions. More... [551 views] 2006 HEDNA Conference: 21 - 23 May 2006 - Frankfurt, Germany Exploring the Advances in Electronic Distribution and the Growing Global ConsumerDistinguished as the authoritative voice on electronic distribution for the hotel industry, HEDNA will bring together a worldwide audience to explore today's most compelling distribution issues at the 2006 HEDNA Conference in Frankfurt, Germany. Shaping the agenda, are a number of significant topics that challenge the industry... More... [585 views] 10 New Ibis Properties Planned For ThailandAsia's Economy Hotel Revolution Gathers Pace As Accor And Thailand's Erawan Group Announce 10 New Ibis Hotels Accor and Thailand's Erawan Group PLC have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a network of up to 10 Ibis economy hotels in six major destinations including Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai and Krabi. More... [665 views] Hotel beds sore point with travellers‘Lack of home comforts’ (27%) and ‘loneliness’ (25%) are the worst aspects of staying in a hotel, according to research published – the poll also showed around one-third of people staying in a hotel for business purposes have had to do work (38%) or eat a meal (31%) from their hotel bed. More... [970 views] Intercontinental Abu Dhabi appoints new general managerIntercontinental Abu Dhabi announced the appointment of Heiner Werdeling as the new General Manager, joining after two years at the InterContinental The Grand, Mumbai, India. . More... [910 views] Another great tourism year for HamburgWith an increase of 8.2 per cent last year Hamburg has managed to cross the “magic” threshold of six million overnight stays and establish a new record. The total number of nights spent by guests in the city during 2005 stood at 6.435 million. More... [619 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 30, 2006Building a Blog Strategy in Hospitality - Grow Customer Relationships and Direct Online RevenueThe ease and ubiquity of blogs and their application in hotel marketing deserves a closer look. Must we act on such bold statements as “blogs are the future” and “a blog is a marketing must”? Also, what are the implications for blogs in hospitality? Should creating a blog become part of your own hotel marketing mix? Does hospitality require a different blog strategy than in other verticals? Are there alternatives to blogs? Can a blog help you differentiate your services and de-commoditize your product? What role does a blog serve if at all and what are the pros and cons of developing a blog strategy? The ideas discussed in this article could help hoteliers conceptualize the creation of a blog strategy. By Jason Price and Max Starkov More... [1308 views] Bachran to leave Jinjiang Hotels after two successful yearsChristopher Bachran, the first foreigner to head a State-owned company in China, lost his job as president of Jinjiang group's hotel management unit after presiding over an eightfold profit increase in two years. Bachran, 56, will leave Jinjiang International Hotel Management Co, which operates Shanghai's famous Peace Hotel, next month after his contract wasn't renewed, the US hotelier said Friday. More... [1266 views] What You Must Do to Create a Hotel Experience Based on Service at the Level of Creating Truly Memorable Experiences?It is inevitable that more and more hotels will try to upgrade their service to the level of creating truly memorable experiences (CTME). Some will succeed better than others. In my opinion, the hotels or hotel groups which succeed the most will be those that focus on ALL four of the following areas, and not just on the first two, and do so the quickest......By Peter McAlpine More... [2486 views] Manchester Grand Resorts names Thomas J.W. Voss PresidentHotel Veteran Tapped to Oversee Manchester’s Four Resort Properties More... [786 views] February lift in long-haul visitors to LondonFebruary 2006 saw the return of high-spending torusits from the USA and Japan to London, reports PKF in its monthly study of the UK hotel industry. More... [638 views] Smaller cities roll out red carpet for big conventionsAfter years of meeting mostly in bigger cities, the main trade group for the rent-to-own industry is considering Memphis, Indianapolis, St. Louis and Columbus, Ohio, for its 2008 convention. Its motive: saving money. More... [569 views] Conrad Indianapolis OpensConrad Indianapolis opens its doors on Monday, March 27, as the city's first true luxury hotel. It is the fourth Conrad hotel in the United States and the first to be constructed from the ground-up. More... [581 views] InterContinental Montréal welcomes new General ManagerGilles Hervieux has been appointed as the General Manager for the InterContinental Montréal, Quebec More... [803 views] Luxury Travelers Wisely Choose Warm Destinations First Part of 2006 According To Small Luxury Hotels of the WorldThe frigid air and grey skies of winter have sent luxury travelers from the U.S. searching for bluer skies and a whole lot of warmth in the first three months of 2006, according to Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the luxury brand featuring over 360 hotels in 60 countries. More... [600 views] Tourism Continues to Boost California Economy in 2005The California travel industry continues to reap the benefits of a rebounding economy as figures for 2005 reflect an upswing in direct travel spending. Total spending in California from visitors was $88.1 billion in 2005, an increase of 7.6 percent from 2004 and the third straight year of positive growth, as well as the largest gain since 2000. More... [535 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 29, 2006Talking Education - The leaders of yesterday are the dinosaurs of today !Part 2 - 'Talking Education' - The last time I stood in front of my students I was asked what they should do when they encounter the “we-have-done-it-like-this-for-25-years“ mentality of supervisors and senior management in the companies they are presently working in, while completing their Master studies. So I asked them to go back to the lectures about the Competing Values Framework Model ( Quinn et all, 1997 ) and the needs for a good manager to be a Mentor and a Director, a Producer and a Facilitator, a Broker and a Monitor, an Innovator and a Coordinator. By Bert van Waldbeek More... [1404 views] India Emerges as Asia Pacific’s Fastest-Growing Market for International Tourist SpendingChina continues as second-largest tourist spending market, while overall regional spending records double-digit growth Singapore, 27 March 2006 – India is the fastest-growing Asia Pacific market for international tourist spending, according to new figures released today by Visa Asia Pacific. Visa’s spending data shows that tourists to India spent US$372 million during the fourth quarter of 2005, which represents a 25 percent increase over the same period in 2004. More... [989 views] Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels Reports U.S. Investors Poised to Conquer the Asian Hotel Investment MarketAccording to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, U.S. investors are set to invest capital into Asia in the coming years as investment into the hotel sector continues to undergo rapid globalization. U.S.-based investors are expected to continue to dominate the market and explore the world for new opportunities. More... [620 views] Singapore Visitor Arrivals for February 2006In February 2006, Singapore welcomed 727,000 visitors, registering a 15.9% growth over the same period a year ago. Visitor days were estimated to reach 2.4 million, an increase of 7.8% in comparison to February 2005. More... [617 views] Shangri-La Hotel, Hangzhou Blazed Path for Joint VenturesIn 1985 It Was First Chinese Hotel Partly Owned and Managed by a Private Company. The Hangzhou Hotel, the first in China partly owned and managed by the growing Hong Kong-based Shangri-La chain, has been leading the way for a long time with information about running a joint venture in China. More... [1316 views] Carlson Companies appoints Sara Lee Execuitve Lee A. Chaden to Board of DirectorsDuane R. Kullberg retires from Carlson board after 10 years of service; Scott Gage to replace Geoffrey Gage on board as part of rotation plan. Lee A. Chaden, executive vice president of Sara Lee Corporation and chief executive officer of Sara Lee Branded Apparel, has been appointed to the Carlson Companies Board of Directors, Carlson Chairman and CEO Marilyn Carlson Nelson announced today. More... [704 views] Award- Winning BITTM Brings Together Chinese Tourism ExpertsBITTM, the Beijing International Travel and Tourism Market taking place 3-5 April this year, has today announced the support of a range of high-profile speakers for its packed conference program More... [537 views] Meritus launch new global reservation networkAsian luxury brand Meritus Hotels & Resorts has launched its new global reservations network to support its global distribution strategy. More... [856 views] Spain Feb hotel occupancy 46.3 pct, down 0.9 pct; prices up 1.2 pctHotel occupancy in Spain fell 0.9 pct in February from a year earlier to 46.3 pct, the National Statistics Institute (INE) said More... [656 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 28, 2006Do I Dare Say Something?As every company knows, employees are its greatest resource. It's more than a shame, then, that many workers are either not encouraged or afraid to speak up and communicate ideas at work. Employers are losing valuable knowledge and experience, and their companies are weaker for that loss. More... [1797 views] Marriott VP: 'Engaging the customer in a changing market place'Early last week, two vice presidents of brand research from Marriott International presented on the topic of brand management; this to an intimate group of 35 brand managers throughout the Washington D.C. area. Their speech titled, “Engaging the customer in a changing market place” touched on the concept of a brand being a promise, a relationship and an experience. More... [1751 views] China, India Leading Asian Hotel Performance GrowthThe outlook for the Asian hospitality industry remains positive for 2006 as a surge in arrivals and domestic travel has driven up occupancy rates and prices in hotels. With business and conference traffic increasing, negotiated rates have been blown out of windows, and hotels in major cities no longer follow seasonal patterns, being full year-round. More... [1111 views] New Chief Operating Officer for InterContinental Hotels Group in Australia, New Zealand and South PacificInterContinental Hotels Group has appointed a new Chief Operating Officer, Keith Barr, to oversee its portfolio of hotels in Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific and to drive the expansion of its global brands in the region. More... [879 views] Gold Medal for the Torino hotel industry in FebruaryIn February the hotels have posted record performances: + 222% growth of the RevPAR with an occupancy rate in the neighborhood of 92% during the month of February. More... [557 views] Vail Resorts' new CEO sets uphill courseWhen Rob Katz got the call about taking over as CEO of Vail Resorts last month, he was happily ensconced in Boulder with a part-time consulting gig that left him plenty of time for leisure pursuits. More... [874 views] Hotels bet on budget in India, but land costs worryIndian luxury hotel operators and foreign chains are rushing to expand in the budget segment, where demand from domestic business and leisure travellers is soaring, but the rising cost of land could spoil the party. More... [721 views] Rezidor SAS Hospitality receives Russian Travel Industry Award as Best International Hotel CompanyRezidor SAS Hospitality received a prestigious Russia Travel Industry Award at the MITT2006 fair in Moscow. The company has been awarded the ”Best International Hotel Company”. This prestigious award will take a prominent place among numerous awards received by Rezidor SAS. More... [622 views] HKTB releases 2005 Visitor Spending and February 2006 Visitor Arrival FiguresHong Kong's 2005 tourism expenditure figures show that the Total Expenditure Associated to Inbound Tourism registered a double-digit growth of 14.1% compared with 2004, reaching a total of HK$105.66 billion. More... [522 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 27, 2006How to use the web to capture high-flyersWhen it is used correctly, the internet can be an invaluable tool in meeting hotels’ recruitment needs. HVS looks into the process of online recruitment and gives a few pointers to ensure maximum effectiveness. More... [1000 views] Travelodge’s £1bn checkoutThe budget hotel group Travelodge could be about to change hands for £1 billion. The chain’s owner, Permira, the private-equity firm, held a beauty parade last week of potential advisers to handle a possible sale or flotation of the business. More... [823 views] Blackstone in new bid for hotel group De VereThe American private-equity firm Blackstone has made an 800p-a-share bid approach to De Vere, which runs 35 hotels such as the Belfry, the Ryder Cup venue, valuing the company at pounds 670m More... [989 views] Thistle Hotels of UK firms up India plansUK-based hospitality chain Thistle Hotels is firming up plans to enter the Indian market with its premium international brand, Guoman Hotels. More... [930 views] Cornell Center For Hospitality Research Presents 2006 Hospitality Industry Relevance AwardsThe Center for Hospitality Research at Cornell’s School of Hotel Administration has presented 2006 Hospitality Industry Relevance Awards for the Center’s most relevant Research Report and for its most relevant Research Tool. In both categories, the awards were presented to teams comprising academic and industry leaders. More... [677 views] Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Continues its Dynamic Growth and Profitability in 2005Focus on Swiss Quality and Service Drives Positive Results. More... [743 views] Hampton on Place to open 90 to 100 hotels in 2006Hampton, the national brand of more than 1,300 mid-priced Hampton Inn® and Hampton Inn & Suites® hotels, today announced that it is on pace to open between 90 and 100 hotels during 2006 and possibly set a record for openings in 2007. More... [596 views] Mexican Government Fines Sheraton HotelA U.S.-owned hotel that expelled Cuban guests under pressure from the Treasury Department must pay $112,000 in fines for violating Mexican commerce law, the Mexican government said Friday. More... [876 views] Radisson SAS to take over InterContinental Hotel DubaiRadisson SAS Hotels & Resorts, the first-class brand of the leading hospitality company Rezidor SAS Hospitality, will take over the management of the InterContinental Hotel Dubai, the first five-star hotel in the emirate located in the heart of the city’s business district, from 1 October this year. More... [1197 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 24, 2006Great service, personifiedIf only they were the norm - not the exception - says Yeoh Siew Hoon More... [1617 views] Lifetime Achievement Award for Reto Wittwer, President & CEO of KempinskiThe American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (AAHS) based in New York has awarded this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award to Reto Wittwer, President and CEO of Kempinski. Joseph Cinque, President and CEO of AAHS, praised Wittwer’s vision and commitment in all areas of international luxury hospitality. More... [1117 views] Rezidor SAS Hospitality: 2005 And 2006 On Course For Explosive Growth15 new hotels opened at the turn of the year alone More... [864 views] Chris von Imhof Honored as Resort Executive of the YearAlaska tourism industry professional Chris von Imhof has been honored as the Resort Executive of the Year (2005) by hospitality and resort industry leaders convening at the 2006 Resort Management Conference. Alaska tourism industry professional Chris von Imhof has been honored as the Resort Executive of the Year (2005) by hospitality and resort industry leaders convening at the 2006 Resort Management Conference at the Pinehurst Resort in the Village of Pinehurst, North Carolina. More... [620 views] UNWTO Announces A New Human Rights Initiative For The Tourism IndustryThe World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Tourism Partnership of the Prince of Wales International Business Leaders Forum (IBLF) announced today a joint initiative on human rights, the Tourism and Human Rights Initiative. The initiative will create a framework to assist the tourism industry address human rights within their own business operations. More... [753 views] eCornell Partners with the Cortiva Institute to Target the Wellness SpaceParties see great demand for online management courses More... [783 views] Hotel charges guests by the kilo for lodgingA hotel in northern Germany has started charging its guests by the kilo for an overnight stay. In the town of Norden, close to the Dutch border, guests now have to step onto the scales before moving into their rooms and fork out half a euro ($0.61) per kilogram. More... [1523 views] Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces partner with Korea's Shilla HotelsA union to promote strategic marketing. More... [983 views] Millennium Hotels and Resorts launches Millennium On View, a new marketing initiative in hospitality and travelMillennium on View, The Visual Arts Program is a Partnership with North America’s Leading Museums and Cultural Organizations More... [795 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 23, 2006Accor to focus on brandsParis-based Accor, under new CEO Mr Gilles Pelisson, is set to develop its individual hotel brands like never before, a departure from the past, when its focus has been more on developing Accor as the umbrella group, particularly in Asia-Pacific. By Raini Hamdi, Editor, TTG Asia, TTGmice, BTN Asia-Pacific More... [1324 views] Poor results "put Accor on the Marriott shopping list"French hotels giant Accor could become a takeover target for US rival Marriott after recent disappointing results, say analysts. More... [1740 views] You got web site traffic? Now turn those visits into dollars…I see all kinds of wild figures thrown around from 0.5% to 20.0% of site visitors that book then and there; this is broadly referred to as the conversion factor. I’m not going to tell you what it should be for your web site because I don’t believe in it. I use RevPOV – Revenue Per Online Visit - this is the RevPAR alternative for web site revenue benchmarking. It’s an easy sum; take your total DIRECT online revenues and divide it by the total number of visits to your site. By Keith Paulin More... [950 views] Hotel Energy Costs Surge - Shock Absorbed by RevenueThroughout 2005 we all heard the news of oil prices lingering above $50 a barrel and gasoline exceeding $3.00 a gallon. For long-term lodging industry participants, vivid memories of the gas lines and high inflation of the 1970s resurfaced. Understandingly, hotel owners and operators feared that a fall off in travel would cause occupancy to decline, and rising utility costs would kill profits. By Robert Mandelbaum, PKF More... [995 views] Kerzners take resorts private in $3.6bn buyoutSol and Butch Kerzner are at the head of a group of investors that is taking Kerzner International private in a deal worth $3.6bn (£2.1bn). More... [755 views] General Manager of the Renaissance Tulsa Hotel arrested - was concerned about guest's privacyA hotel manager who was concerned about guests' privacy was arrested Monday night on complaints alleging that she violated a municipal ordinance that requires hotels to provide registration information about guests when police request it. More... [1958 views] InterContinental Hotels Group Expands Wireless reservation Capability Across Its Seven BrandsGuests of IHG brand hotels can now book reservations and get hotel directions using virtually any wireless device. InterContinental Hotels Group today unveiled enhanced wireless capabilities, offering its guests greater convenience and reservations access when planning their travel to any of IHG’s 3,600 properties worldwide. More... [672 views] Carlson Hotels Promotes Steve Mogck to EVP of Select Service Hotels - Country Inns & Suites and Park Inn BrandsCarlson Hotels Worldwide today announced the promotion of Steve Mogck, formerly senior vice president of Legal, to the position of executive vice president of Select Service Hotels for Carlson Hotels Worldwide. More... [637 views] The Ritz-Carlton Millenia Singapore wins human resource awardThe Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore won the coveted “Employer of Choice” award which recognised the company for demonstrating commitment to the human capital and also widely regarded as Employer of Choice by the employees and the industry. More... [2188 views] Six Month Old HSMAI Asia Pacific Names Leadership & Board of Directors, 2006 AgendaContinuing the momentum from its launch in October 2005, HSMAI’s new Asia Pacific Chapter has announced key events and initiatives for 2006, including the debut of two regional strategy conferences, industry forums and the hugely successful AsiaConnect industry meeting. More... [483 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 22, 2006Welcome to the New Majestic, a hotel unlike any othersI’ve never been a big fan of design hotels, says Yeoh Siew Hoon. More... [1647 views] Raffles set for grand China entryRaffles International Hotels & Resorts is going to lengths to ensure its first Raffles in China, Raffles Beijing, will showcase the brand properly when it debuts this June. The entry is significant for the group as it is the foothold to further expansion in China for the brand, according to executive vice president marketing and managing director of the Raffles brand, Ms Diana Ee-Tan. By Raini Hamdi, Editor, TTG Asia, TTGmice, BTN Asia-Pacific
More... [1157 views] Small-Business Travel Guide: Fifteen ways to travel on the cheapFifteen ways to travel on the cheap - No one likes to pay too much to travel. But for entrepreneurs who need to spend their own limited funds to make a crucial business trip, snagging a free airline ticket or a discounted rental car can sometimes mean the difference between making payroll and having a lot of cranky employees. By Sophia Banay, Forbes.com More... [926 views] Starwood announces integration of Le Meridien into sales and marketing systemsStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced the completion of a major milestone in the integration of the Le Méridien which Starwood acquired 16 weeks ago. As of today Le Méridien’s reservations, distribution, loyalty and sales functions have been fully integrated and these hotels will now be able to harness the power of Starwood’s global infrastructure and sales and marketing systems, giving it a solid foundation for growth. More... [1052 views] Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels Reports Trend in Hotel Investment Window Shrinking by 50%According to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, private equity firms are shrinking the traditional window for hotel investments from three to seven years to, in some cases, two to four years, or by as much as half of the traditional investment window. More... [877 views] PricewaterhouseCoopers Forecasts U.S. Lodging Industry Will Generate Record $1.6 Billion In Fees And Surcharges In 2006PwC forecasts that about half of the increase will result from a 3.1 percent increase in occupied rooms in 2006. More... [547 views] Bahrain unveils US$100m resort master planAs part of a major tourism infrastructure development initiative in Bahrain, the master plan of the US$100 million Al Waha Resort was unveiled by Bahrain-based Enshaa Development Real Estate Company. More... [787 views] Thailand launches 'Visit Thailand' campaignThe Tourism Authority of Thailand is to spend THB 15 million supporting the Visit Thailand Campaign to support travel to Thailand. The campaign is aimed specifically at boosting visitor arrivals to Thailand as a major tourist destination, with particular emphasis on the Andaman Sea tourist resort areas, such as Phuket Island and Krabi. More... [671 views] Hong Kong to stage new Mega Event – the Culture & Heritage Celebration in April 2006To showcase Hong Kong’s unique culture and heritage to global visitors during 2006 Discover Hong Kong Year, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will stage a brand new Mega Event – the Culture & Heritage Celebration – this April. More... [605 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 21, 2006Boutique hotels, boutique distributionUK-based boutique tour operator Tropical Locations is urging Asian hoteliers to be more selective in their distribution of contracts. Partner & head of product Mr David Kevan said as many of the more specialist operators had become more selective in their product range, hotels should try to be equally discerning, rather than adopt a scattergun approach to distribution. By Raini Hamdi. Editor, TTG Asia, TTGmice, BTN Asia-Pacific More... [858 views] As airlines cut menus, luxury hotels step upMany take dining sky high offering takeout meals for weary travelers. Pistachio-crusted blue fin tuna topped with shaved fennel and blood oranges. Prosciutto and burratta mozzarella on bone bread, garnished with arugula. Grilled chicken with avocado and chipotle aioli. Luxury hotels around the country serve such gourmet entrees in their dining rooms. More... [1435 views] Pass the bricks - when it's time to make a break in the hotel businessIs it better to separate the business of running the hotels from owning the bricks and mortar, or to keep them together under one enterprise? This is a question that has occupied the hotel industry for decades. By Neale Redington and Pete Hac, Deloitte More... [1054 views] InterContinental eyeing new brands, regionsInterContinental Hotels Group would like to add an economy brand to its portfolio of properties, but for now the world's largest hotelier is focused on its growth targets, Chief Executive Andrew Cosslett said. More... [1022 views] IHG appoints new regional Director of DevelopmentInterContinental Hotels Group has appointed a new Director of Development Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific, Todd Wynne Parry to drive continuing expansion of the Group’s hotel brand portfolios in the region. More... [1132 views] Cornell Study Says: How To Make Money In The Hotel Business - Keep Your Prices StrongDiscounting doesn’t work as a strategy for hotels that are trying to earn more revenue than the other hotels in their immediate competitive set. A new study from the Cornell Center for Hospitality Research revisited the question of whether discounting works to bring in more money, compared to direct competitors. More... [1650 views] Seattle hotels adopt EcoRooms from Green Suites International to save money, help protect environmentTwo area hotels have been saving money and the environment, thanks to a host of environmentally enhanced products from Green Suites International, a California-based supplier of environmental products and programs to the lodging industry. More... [745 views] David Horowitz Named General Manager For The New Hyatt Regency Century PlazaHorowitz to oversee immediate reposition; includes multi-million dollar renovation David Horowitz has been appointed General Manager for the new Hyatt Regency Century Plaza in Century City, California. More... [993 views] New York the centre of US incoming tourismNew York continues to attract more visitors each year. According to first figures released for 2005, the Big Apple received some 41 million visitors including 6.7 million international visitors. For 2006, the city administration predicts an all-time record of 43.3 million. More... [555 views] Marriott International, Inc. Receives the 2006 Ronald E. Harrison AwardMarriott International, Inc. received the 2006 Ronald E. Harrison Award, by the International Franchise Association (IFA), for its significant contributions to minorities in franchising. More... [632 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 20, 2006Understand What Motivates Your BossWhat to do if I'm not allowed to be productive because of my manager's own self-interest? Should I just buckle down and try not to get noticed? By Stever Robbins More... [2369 views] Meritus aims to be the next Shangri-LaTour operators at ITB updating themselves on Meritus Hotels & Resorts will have plenty to chew on as the slew of changes at the Singapore-based group in the last six months begins to show effect. The group probably has not seen such rapid change in its 30-year history. While in recent years its hotels were almost exclusively run by Asian hoteliers, its key ones today, including The Mandarin Singapore, Marina Mandarin Singapore and JC Mandarin Shanghai are run by, respectively, Mr Gerhard Kropp, Mr Tony Cousens and Mr Gerhard Hecker, familiar names to the Asian hotel industry. By Raini Hamdi, Editor, TTG Asia, TTGmice, BTN Asia-Pacific More... [1400 views] Meeting/Convention planners rule!If audacious, they will change the landscape of Hospitality. If trends are any indicator, the State of Hospitality, undergoing a recent boom, has a very weak seam. Standards, whether in quality or performance, are low; the product has significant highs, a modest middle ground, and an enormous, disappointing base. Service delivery is spotty, the attitude is careless, and the reception is disinterested. Only the Consumer can change this. Enter the Meeting/Convention Planner, who must navigate the unsure landscape we present. By John R. Hendrie, Hospitality Performance More... [906 views] Global expansion for Regent HotelsRegent, one of the most respected brands in the luxury segment of the lodging industry, will add a total of nine hotels over the next two years to its existing luxury portfolio. More... [1353 views] Hong Kong & Shanghai Hotels profit up 39% on strong business fundamentalsAnnouncing its audited results for the year ended 31 December 2005, The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited (owner of Pensinsula Group) said that the underlying strong performance of its businesses during the year was reflected in significantly improved profit before non-operating items of HK$688 million, up 39% as compared to 2004. More... [589 views] Cendant’s Hospitality Spin-Off to be Named Wyndham WorldwideWyndham Worldwide will become the name of the new hospitality company expected to be created by Cendant Corporation later this year in the previously announced spin-off of its lodging, vacation exchange and rental, and timeshare resorts businesses, it was announced today More... [751 views] Availability of Smoking Rooms ShrinkingHotel rooms are among the few remaining redoubts for cigarette smokers whose habit increasingly is relegated to benches on the peripheries of parking lots. More... [785 views] Thai travel trade express concerns over political conflictThailand’s tourism business organizations have expressed concern over an extended political conflict, indicating that the tension could adversely affect their business. More... [583 views] Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts Moves to Makkah: A New Hotel in the Holy City to Open in 2007In keeping with its expansion objectives across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and following the successful operation of two hotels in Madinah and two in Jeddah, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts (MH&R) now moves to Makkah: More... [654 views] Horwath reports high incentives for Dutch hotel managersDutch hotel managers received an average bonus of € 6,500 last year. This is show in research by Horwath Consulting. The General Managers, the highest position in hotels, received an average bonus of € 18,000. The monthly salaries increased by 2.5% in 2006. The high bonuses are in direct relation to the improved results of 2005 More... [633 views] InterContinental Hotels Group begins conversion of first Hotel Indigo in DallasInterContinental Hotels Group’s lifestyle branded boutique grows by 170 rooms. IInterContinental Hotels Group, the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms, began conversion on its second Hotel Indigo in Texas deep in the heart of downtown Dallas. The hotel is scheduled to open in mid-June 2006. More... [727 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 17, 2006Talking Education - Building bridges between the private and the academic sectorsEvery time I stand in front of groups of students to lecture on Marketing, MICE & Events Management, Crisis Management and/or Managerial competencies I am jealous of those students …. Comparing my education at a Dutch Hotelschool, 40 years ago, with the present levels of education shows me how far the academic world has come in grasping the complexity of the tourism and hospitality education. By Bert van Walbeek , The Winning Edge More... [998 views] Serve the person, not the processTo Yeoh Siew Hoon, there’s only one basic rule to good service. More... [1762 views] Australian Hotel Investment Market to Remain Buoyant in 2006According to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, hotel investors in Australia are likely to see a continuation of the favourable conditions for purchasing hotels throughout 2006. The firm’s recently released Hotel Investment Outlook 2006 also reports that with limited new hotel supply, competition will remain fierce and hotel assets strongly contested. More... [584 views] Hilton Hotels Set to Join with Las Vegas Sands in Asia's Las Vegas™Las Vegas Sands Corp. and Hilton Hotels announced today the addition of plans for a 1,200-room Hilton Hotel and a 300-room Conrad Hotel to the Cotai Strip(TM) currently being developed by Las Vegas Sands in the People's Republic of China Special Administrative Region of Macao. The parties have entered into a non-binding letter of intent and expect to enter into binding definitive agreements before the end of the second quarter of 2006. More... [632 views] The Suite Life: Cloud Nine ZeroUntil it is explained to you, the name of one of Boston's newest luxury-boutique hotels, "Nine Zero," could leave you guessing. Does it have something to do with the number of zeros in a billion? The tally of a unanimous Supreme Court verdict? Something that happened in 1990--perhaps the freeing of Nelson Mandela or the first Three Tenors World Cup performance? By Dan Lienert, Forbes.com More... [799 views] Golden Tulip Hospitality takes over 5 hotels in Germany and AustriaGolden Tulip Hospitality announces its expansion in Germany and Austria through the taking over of the hotel lease agreements for five hotels previously managed by German based RIMC. More... [714 views] Peabody Hotel Group announces appointment of Craig Marshall to Regional Director of OperationsThe Peabody Hotel Group (PHG) has appointed Craig Marshall to Regional Director of Operations at its’ Brand Management Division. Marshall has been with the Peabody Hotel Group since 1999 in a highly successful role as the General Manager of the award-winning Hampton Inn and Suites at Beale Street in Memphis. More... [573 views] Rezidor SAS Hospitality: 2005 and 2006 on course for explosive growth15 new hotels opened at the turn of the year alone. Rezidor SAS Hospitality is on course for success: in 2005 the company generated Group earnings of Euro 587 million, up 17.7% from the year 2004. Some 37 new sites were opened, including the architecturally unique Radisson SAS Hotel Frankfurt, which was been furnished by star designers Matteo Thun and Adam D. Tihany. More... [1208 views] Westin Hotels stirs the senses with new multi-million global ad campaignBeginning this week, millions of consumers will experience “This is How It Should Feel” - Westin Hotels & Resorts’ new multi-million dollar experiential advertising campaign that brings to life the brand’s new positioning of personal renewal. In a departure from the genre, Westin’s new global television, print and online campaign is devoid of room shots, sunsets or fluffy beds. More... [1168 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 16, 2006Hotelier for a dayHis hotel lights up the stars. Turning thumbs up or down on such pleas was longtime general manager Ali Kasikci. The 50-year-old Turkish-born Kasikci (Ka-seek-ee ) is known as a top performer who has elevated The Peninsula's profile in his 14-year tenure. Its February occupancy was 85%, vs. 62% for the average U.S. lodging, according to preliminary figures from Smith Travel Research. More... [1228 views] Starwood Capital Launches New Residential and Resort Development CompanyFormer CEO of Arvida Company, Jim Motta, Hired as President of Starwood Land Company More... [1545 views] Consumer Groups Pushing For Round-the-Clock Check-In / Check OutOnce again standardization is raising its head,” is the response of IH&RA CEO David McMillan to consumer advocacy groups calling for regulation that would force hotels to offer flexible check-in and check-out times and rates for their clients. At the last meeting of the of the International Organization for Standardization Consumer Policy Committee (ISO - COPOLCO) held in Toronto, Canada in 2005, COPOLCO called for the hotel industry to abandon its fixed check-in and check out times indicating that consumers should be charged only for the amount of time spent in a hotel room. More... [919 views] Cendant Hotel Group To Acquire Baymont Inn & Suites Lodging SystemCendant Hotel Group today announced it will bolster its commitment to limited-service, midscale lodging by acquiring the Baymont® Inn & Suites brand and system of 115 franchised properties. More... [596 views] Hoteliers predict where, how long growth will continueHow long the resurgence of the limited-service segment will last and where the growth is taking place are important considerations for hoteliers in the segment. "It'll last until the backlog of these hotels get open and usually when they do, the economy will start to recycle again," said Mike Leven, president and c.e.o. of US Franchise Systems. More... [730 views] Top destinations at World Travel Fair 2006 in ShanghaiFrom March 30th till April 2nd, 2006 the Shanghai Exhibition Center will open its doors for the third annual edition of China’s leading outbound travel show. World Travel Fair (WTF) the ultimate business-to-business and business-to-consumer platform for the Chinese outbound travel industry will attract travel officials from across the globe and high-income consumers from the Greater Shanghai Region. More... [1178 views] Res-Expo - Three Top Travel Industry Trends for 2006At Res-Expo in Dallas last week, nearly every presentation, breakout session and panel focused on marketing strategy. Highlights were: marketing to women who have money; marketing to the 111 million Chinese who do not have credit cards and are not allowed to travel outside their own country; and discussing how airlines and hotel chains are lifting global online group pricing strategies above one-property tactics. More... [702 views] HSMAI Announces Impressive Attendance Registered for 6th Annual Resort Management Conference, March 19-21 At Pinehurst, NCTop executive and senior level professionals from prestigious companies and leading hospitality entities will be on-hand for the 6th Annual Resort Management Conference, the yearly gathering of intensive learning and networking for resort professionals. Presented by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI), the University of Denver School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management (HRTM) and the International Resort Managers Association (IRMA), the 2006 event will take place March 19-21 at Pinehurst in North Carolina. More... [489 views] Starwood Hotels & Resorts continues expansion stride in China with 5th signing of the yearStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc (NYSE: HOT) and Guang Dong Teem Holdings Limited have announced an agreement whereby Starwood will manage the Sheraton Guangzhou Hotel in the Guangdong province of China. The newly built 450-room Sheraton Guangzhou Hotel is scheduled to open in late 2008. More... [722 views] New Zealand: Hotel occupancy fallsThere are worrying signs for the country's large hotel chains. A survey by the New Zealand Hotel Council has found there was a 3.2 percent drop in occupancy last year, compared with 2004 More... [781 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 15, 2006The 80/20 Volume ParadoxHere's why tapping your top-volume clients for further growth doesn't always work. In most marketing circles, the principle behind the 80/20 rule applies to the relationship between your revenue and your customers. That is, 80% of your business results are being driven by 20% of your clients, or pretty close to it. By Geoff Dillon, MarketingProfs.com More... [1441 views] The Ascott Group Announces Senior Appointments For Its Europe OperationsWith brands The Ascott, Somerset and Citadines, The Ascott Group is reorganizing and consolidating its presence in Europe Paris, The Ascott Group, the leading international serviced residence company, has appointed Mr Sym Lee Managing Director for Europe with effect from January 2006. Ascott owns and manages serviced residences in Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East countries under three brand names: The Ascott, Somerset and Citadines. More... [1204 views] Hotel groups move in on ChinaInternational chains are aggressively extending their reach to the mainland's second-tier cities. China has become the world's fastest-growing major hotel market in recent years. Primary cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou have seen rapid development, but this year an abundance of new hotel projects are planned for the country's lesser-known cities. More... [1141 views] Hotels empty minibars to fill desire for fridgesTurns out the perfect hotel minibar — the sort guests might actually appreciate rather than disdain — might simply be an empty refrigerator. The hotel minibar, repository of the $5 Coke and the $12 jar of nuts, has long been an object of scorn among value-conscious travelers. In a 2005 hotel guest-satisfaction study, the marketing information firm J.D. Power and Associates found that an in-room refrigerator ranked third among the desired amenities (after free continental breakfast and an in-room coffeemaker). By Jayne Clark, USA TODAY More... [1575 views] Hilton International Plans Introducing Another Brand in Bulgaria, Others to FollowHotel chain Hilton International intends to bring to Bulgaria more of its international hotel brands, said Poli Karastoyanova, executive director of the Bulgarian Convention and Visitors Bureau . More... [981 views] What is Customer Service Like at the Level of Creating Memorable Experiences and How Do You Create It?There is now growing recognition in the hospitality industry that providing customer service at the level of customer satisfaction is no longer acceptable, and that creating truly memorable experiences (CTME) is the minimum standard. But what does service at this level look like, and how do you create it? By Peter McAlpine, Renaissance Consulting More... [2023 views] Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts strengthen sales presence in EuropeWorking in co-operation with H.T.M.S. International, the international hotel chain with Swiss roots recently opened two new regional sales offices in Madrid/Spain and Milan/Italy. More... [996 views] Choosing the right Hotel, Hospitality or Tourism School – 10 Basics you need to coverChoosing the right Hotel, Hospitality or Tourism School – 10 Basics you need to cover. A guide for students and parents interested in hotel, hospitality and tourism schools or universities, by Jitendra Jain More... [1422 views] NY history on sale in auction of Plaza hotel itemsNostalgic New Yorkers, film fans and Eloise enthusiasts can buy a little piece of history next week when Christie‘s auction house sells select items from The Plaza hotel to the public. More... [798 views] Asean members agree on a joint marketing approachAsean’s ministers of tourism – who represent Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam – have agreed to speed up visa-free access for Asean citizens and to work towards the development of a single Asean visa for foreign visitors. More... [577 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 14, 2006Increase revenue, reduce costs - go "Green", and market your commitmentTree Huggers, Hippies, woodchucks, back to earth, planet earth - the derogatory labeling is staggering. How about savvy, successful Hospitality business people? By John R. Hendrie More... [1178 views] Training on external e-mail communications becomes a top priority for hoteliersNot so long ago in the lodging industry, returning from a long meeting or rare day-off would mean coming back to a stack of pink message slips. Then came the age of voice-mail, and the pink slips were replaced by a flashing light indicator on the phone. Now, the dozens of daily voicemails have dwindled to a few, and quickly, we struggle with more than 100 daily e-mails daily-and that's not counting spam. It kind of makes you wish you'd have signed up for that typing class in high school doesn't it? By Doug Kennedy More... [1255 views] Travel industry improves communication with online usersAirline and travel companies are doing a better job of answering questions from online users, but the overall quality of e-mail responses declined, according to a new survey by The Customer Respect Group Inc., a research and consulting firm in Ipswich, Mass. More... [639 views] European Hotel Transactions 2005The signs in late 2004 that investor confidence in the hotel sector was high proved correct, with 2005 witnessing an upturn in trading and a colossal amount of investment capital across the majority of European markets. More... [728 views] InterContinental Hotels Group: Sale of 24 hotels in Continental Europe for €352 million (£240m)InterContinental Hotels Group PLC announces it has sold a portfolio of 24 hotels (4,903 rooms) to a subsidiary of Westbridge Hospitality Fund LP. More... [1156 views] Deal of the Year Awards Presented at the International Hotel Investment Forum in BerlinHosts of the 9th International Hotel Investment Forum (IHIF) have announced the winners for the prestigious Deal of the Year Awards. The Awards were presented 8 March 2006 at the InterContinental Hotel in Berlin, Germany, in the categories of Single Asset Deal of the Year, Portfolio Deal of the Year and Best New Development of the Year. More... [1073 views] Rendezvous Hotels International Appoints New General ManagersRendezvous Hotels International (“RHI”) is pleased to announce two new General Managers to their key executive team. Alan Featherby, Chief Executive Officer of RHI says: “I am very pleased to welcome Jeremy Yap and Karl Unterfrauner to their new positions. More... [1107 views] Rezidor SAS announces first three Missoni HotelsRezidor SAS Hospitality, the Brussels-based, multi-brand hospitality management company, is pleased to announce the first three Missoni hotels – Kuwait, Edinburgh and Dubai. Rezidor SAS signed a license agreement with the Italian fashion house Missoni in November 2005 to develop the Hotel Missoni brand worldwide. More... [757 views] The Global Hotel Alliance welcomes Omni Hotels, Appoints CEO, Prepares for expansionAs the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) this month celebrates its second anniversary, the alliance partners Kempinski, Pan Pacific and Rydges are delighted to welcome Omni Hotels as its new North American member. More... [634 views] International Tourism Heads to China Next MonthBITTM, the Beijing International Travel and Tourism Market taking place 3-5 April this year, is announcing the participation of exhibitors from South America and the Caribbean. The China outbound tourism event is welcoming nearly 40 countries from around the world. More... [609 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 13, 2006Do What It Takes To WOW: Orchestrating ‘Branded Moments of Truth’In recent articles, I’ve considered the prime importance of ‘Branded Moments of Truth’. These points of interaction between your guest and your experience are the essential determiners of success, more so than price or physical appearances. If, as Malcolm Knapp suggests, ‘living well’ is everyone’s goal, then creation of that feeling and achievement of that ‘aspiration’ happens only through successful & powerful management of your ‘Branded Moments of Truth’. By Rick Hendrie More... [1360 views] The Top Ten Hotel Brands in the European Union on January 1, 2006The 10th Hotel Makers Forum, organized by MKG Consulting has confirmed the recovery of the growth of the European hotel chains supply, carried out especially by the leaders. The Accor group maintains its European supremacy with a growth of its supply superior to 4500 rooms. Four other groups also exceed the 4000 new rooms available on the market. The year was rich in financial operations : sale of assets, transfer of ownership, massive contribution of capital. Investment funds are increasingly active in the sector. More... [1728 views] Growth in India - Kempinski and Leela expand their agreementKempinski Hotels and The Leela Palaces & Resorts announce the extension of their Management Alliance in India. In addition to The Leela Kempinski hotels in Mumbai, Bangalore and Kovalam, a further five hotels in New Delhi - Gurgaon, Udaipur , Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune will be included in the agreement in the next four years. More... [772 views] Accor to build French tourism market to AustraliaA pioneering French travel trade group is on its way to Australia for a fact-finding tour to encourage more French travellers to come and experience the attractions of Western Australia, the Northern Territory, north Queensland and New South Wales. More... [673 views] US: Foreign tourists' spending hits recordForeign visitors spent more than ever in the USA last year despite their numbers continuing to be held down partly by the war on terror. Government figures out Wednesday show people from other countries spent a record $104.8billion on lodging, meals, entertainment and other travel expenses, up 12% from 2004. The number of foreign visitors -- 49.4 million -- was up 7% from 2004, according to the U.S. Commerce Department. The number of foreign visitors continues to lag behind the recent peak of 51.2 million in 2000. More... [547 views] German hoteliers report revPAR growth for the second consecutive yearAfter an impressive 4.7% increase in revenue per available room (revPAR) during 2004, German hoteliers had high expectations for 2005. However, year end results from the HotelBenchmark Survey by Deloitte reveal that hotel performance slowed markedly during 2005. RevPAR grew only marginally, up 1.6%, with average room rate declines being offset by an improvement in occupancy. More... [756 views] First Hotel In China Awarded By Boutique Hotels & Resorts International®Delegates and officials from around the world gathered for the ceremony at City Hotel Shanghai, the first hotel in China, awarded certified membership with Boutique Hotels & Resorts International®. City Hotel Shanghai is renowned for being the first deluxe hotel in Shanghai and currently aims to be the best business hotel in the center of Shanghai. More... [758 views] Women Lead the Way in Travel Purchasing DecisionsThere is a common stereotype that men are more web savvy than women, but a new survey conducted by the european company ArgusCarHire shows that when it comes to booking travel online, women take a backseat to no one. Both Stateside and in Europe, women are now taking charge of making travel decisions and purchasing travel. More... [709 views] Hong Kong's Island Shangri-La and Bombardier Skyjet International join forces to introduce the ultimate in luxuryIsland Shangri-La and Skyjet International today joined forces to introduce a duo of elite travel packages for business and leisure travellers in search of the highest standards of luxury and personalized service. The alliance marks the first time a hotel in Asia teams with a private jet charter provider to offer customers an exemplary level of service both in the air and on the ground. More... [1069 views] Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa OpensHilton International today signed an agreement with Crowne Company to manage the Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa. The 5-star, 40 villa resort on the island of Mahé is now open and operating as a Hilton Worldwide Resort. More... [774 views] Woman sues Catskills resort for $20M over bedbug attacksA Chicago booking agent and her husband sued a Catskills resort Tuesday for $20 million, saying her body and mind were scarred after she suffered some 500 bedbug bites while staying at the hotel last summer. More... [1325 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 10, 2006InterContinental Hotels Group Reports the Largest Hotel Development Pipeline in the IndustryAs reported in the IHG Plc. full year results (to December 31, 2005) stock exchange announcement issued on March 2nd, InterContinental Hotels Group, the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, reported the largest global pipeline in the industry. With 108,500 rooms (over 880 hotels) in its global pipeline, IHG is optimistic it will achieve its target of 50,000 to 60,000 net room additions by the end of 2008. More... [1273 views] Four Seasons checks into the red in fourth quarterFour Seasons Hotels Inc. reported a fourth-quarter loss on Thursday, due partly to a one-time loss related to its retirement plan, write-downs and the impact of foreign exchange. More... [934 views] The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. Posts All-Time Record Results for 2005The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. enjoyed its most successful year ever in 2005. Roomnight sales climbed to nearly 1.7 million – representing an increase in production of 14.4% over 2004, the previous banner year for the company. More... [743 views] Carlson Companies bolsters commitment to luxury with launch of Global Regent brand for hotels and cruisesSignaling its enduring commitment to the luxury business and its Regent brand, Carlson Companies, one of the world’s leading hospitality, travel and marketing companies, today announced an evolutionary step: the merger of Regent Hotels and Radisson Seven Seas Cruises under its global Regent banner. More... [687 views] Accor plans 200,000 new roomsFrench hotel group Accor has reported a pre-tax profit of €603m (£414m) on revenues of €7.6bn (£5.2bn) for 2005. On a reported basis the figures were ahead of 2004 by 17.6% and 7.9% respectively. More... [838 views] The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. and TRUST International to Launch The Private Label CompanyThe Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. is working to form The Private Label Company LLC (PLC) in partnership with TRUST International, part of Cendant’s Travel Distribution Services (TDS) division. The new company is designed to give a global presence to a hotel group or chain in the luxury marketplace by leveraging the existing infrastructure and reservations volumes of The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. More... [861 views] ITB Berlin 2006: Record number of participants10,856 exhibiting companies from 183 countries. ITB Berlin continues to grow - India, Arab states, South America have larger display areas - New: “ITB Supply“ and “Immovest“ – ITB Convention Market Trends & Innovations includes Hospitality Day and TRAVDEX @ ITB for first time – Five Business Travel Days – Many attractions for the public More... [800 views] Kempinski announces Simon Coombs to join Kempinski's top management teamKempinski announces the appointment of a new Chief Financial Officer, Simon Coombs, who will also hold the position of Executive Vice President in Europe’s oldest luxury hotel management group. In line with Kempinski’s continued growth, the top management team at Kempinski is being reinforced with Coombs’ arrival. More... [1209 views] Membership Demand Continues For Small Luxury Hotels of the WorldIndependent Hoteliers Line Up Seeking Brand Recognition and Increased Reservations. Since its inception in 1991, Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) has grown ten fold and now boasts a current membership of 365 of the best, small, luxury properties in almost 60 countries. More... [624 views] Omni Hotels Extends Its International ReachOmni Hotels aims to broaden its international coverage with plans to join the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), a network of luxury brands with hotels and resorts in more than 150 destinations in 55 countries. More... [584 views] Hilton named number one hotel brand in AustraliaThe BDRC Asia Pacific Hotel Business Guest Survey has ranked Hilton Hotels as the number one hotel brand in Australia ahead of Hyatt and Sheraton. The annual independent survey launched in 2003 surveys 1434 business guests throughout Australia and the Asia Pacific region. More... [764 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 9, 2006Emirates Hotels & Resorts launchedExpanding its quality ethos across the international leisure management sector, Emirates has launched Emirates Hotels & Resorts, a new premier hospitality management division containing a portfolio of award-winning luxury conservation resorts, spas, and fully-serviced upscale apartment accommodation. More... [1442 views] Hotel Spas as Independent Profit CentersThe spa industry has become a major player in the hospitality sector with spas appearing at resort and hotel properties at a remarkable rate. The International SPA Association (iSPA) cited the existence of over 1,662 resort/hotel spa properties as of 2004, a number which has continued to grow into 2006. As the industry continues to develop, spas are becoming independent profit centers, responsible for providing detailed cost accounting to the hotel property and justifying their existence with bottom line income. By Andrea Foster and Adam Wohlberg More... [1292 views] Hilton Family of Hotels Announces Multiple Website Enhancements with Rollout of New Portals and Search SpecialsEnhancements to Brand Websites Empower Guests to Research and Book Specialized Stays. More... [964 views] Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya named ‘Hard Rock Hotel of the Year’The first-ever “Hard Rock Hotel of the Year” has been awarded to the Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya due to its “exemplary representation of the Hard Rock brand and culture through selfless community involvement, Stars (guests) service, commitment to excellence, and best practice of Hard Rock’s guiding principles.” More... [751 views] Jones Lang Lasalle Hotels reports U.S. hotel transaction volume for 2005 tops previous records at $21 BillionJones Lang LaSalle Hotels reported today that the transaction volume of hotels grew to more than $21 billion for the full year 2005, reaching a new all-time high, outpacing last year’s record-breaking $12.9 billion by 63%. More... [618 views] Ho Chi Minh City welcomes double-digit increaseHo Chi Minh City attracted over 428,000 foreign tourists in the first two months of this year, a year-on-year increase of 22 percent. The city earned an estimated revenue of US$50.7 million from hotel and travel services in January and February, a 38.8 percent year-on year increase. More... [603 views] Days Inns Offer Free High-Speed InternetFree high-speed Internet access is now available in nearly every guest room at all Days Inn locations in Canada. Additionally, many Days Inn hotels offer wireless high-speed Internet access in the lobby, breakfast room and meeting areas. More... [605 views] Open World Creates New HEDNA WebsiteThe hotel electronic distribution community gained a valuable new resource this month created by Open World, an award-winning eCommerce solutions company. More... [628 views] Hyatt announces Quadriga Worldwide Limited as their preferred and recommended supplier in Europe for in–room entertainment and communication servicesHyatt International Divisional Office for Europe, Africa and Middle East based in Lausanne, Switzerland have announced to all European Hyatt branded hotels in the group that the preferred and recommended supplier for in-room entertainment is Quadriga Worldwide Limited, More... [830 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 8, 2006Robert Riley gets Armani CEO jobEmaar Properties today announced the appointment of Robert Riley as the new CEO of Emaar Hotels & Resorts. He will drive the ambitious development of Armani branded hotels and resorts that will open around the world. More... [1747 views] 8 Essentials For Building Your Online RevenuesI’ve always wanted to write a headline like “10 Lessons Guaranteed to Improve…”. You see these all the time and they attract an incredible number of readers and eyeballs…but then I almost changed my mind. Usually, when you read through the article you discover that the “lessons” are generally a sales blurb for the company. By Keith Paulin More... [1830 views] Al Sondos Suites by Le Meridien Bullish on Future with StarwoodFollowing the November 2005 acquisition of Le Meridien hotels by Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Inc, the Al Sondos Suites by Le Meridien hotel in Dubai is looking forward to strong growth in 2006. More... [746 views] Accor sells 76 properties in Europe for 583 mln Euro; 6 US hotels for 370 mln USDAccor said it has signed a preliminary agreement to sell 76 properties, mostly hotels, in France and Belgium to Fonciere des Murs for 583 mln eur. More... [699 views] New Accor CEO signs 6 Hotel Ibis agreement in ChinaAccor has signed a landmark agreement for 6 new Ibis hotels in Sichuan province, the largest single expansion of Accor’s economy brand in one province of China. The six hotels will be developed at a cost of US$150 million. More... [875 views] Middle East’s First W Hotel Comes to Dubai Festival CityThe world’s fastest-growing luxury hotel brand, W Hotels Worldwide, is to operate a 350-room luxury hotel at Dubai Festival City, the ‘city-within-a-city’ being built on the banks of Dubai Creek. The W Dubai Festival City will be the brand’s first Middle East property. More... [734 views] The Leading Hotel Schools of the World Hosts Second International Leadership SeminarThe Leading Hotel Schools of the World, a joint venture of The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd. and a number of hospitality institutions from around the world, successfully completed the second in its series of International Leadership Seminars. More... [810 views] New York City Hotels play a major role in increasing 2005 profits for Millennium & Copthorne HotelsThe Millennium Broadway, Millennium UN Plaza and Millenium Hilton saw increased earnings in 2005. This contributed to boosting parent company, Millennium & Copthorne Hotels plc’s (M&C) profits by 45%. More... [514 views] Great Hotels and HMC sign MoUHospitality Marketing Concepts, (HMC) the solution provider of travel industry membership and database management programs, announced a ground-breaking new agreement with Great Hotels Organisation. More... [543 views] WORLDHOTELS Announces Further Growth in 2005WORLDHOTELS, one of the leading global hotel groups for independent hotels and regional hotel brands, reports significant growth in 2005 in its year-end figures released. More... [558 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 7, 2006Global Staff Movements - Who is In and Who is OutThe latest update on international Executive staff movements....check it out. More... [3695 views] A destination under scrutiny - Aruba - one happy island?A jewel in the Caribbean crown of memorable Destinations, Aruba delivers a wonderful Visitor Experience. You do feel very safe and welcome; the islanders are joyous, sparkling with enthusiasm and hospitality. Yet, Visitors still must balance perception with the reality. By John R. Hendrie More... [772 views] Are you Keeping Up With Your Public Relations?It’s the most cost-effective method for promoting your travel product, establishing third-party credibility, and getting your name in front of the trade and the public. But in addition to obtaining editorial content by placing stories with traditional press releases or with bylined articles and columns, today’s public relations practitioners have a whole new promotional network at their fingertips. By Leora Lanz and Barbara Wiener-Fischhof
, HVS International
More... [996 views] Companies keep an eye on workers' Internet useA large percentage of companies are monitoring Internet use by workers, but many still allow at least some personal use of the Web. By Stephanie Amour, USA TODAY More... [979 views] A Hotel Bigwig Tries On a Chef's HatIt was almost like old times last week for Simon F. Cooper, president and chief operating officer of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, when he played host at an event for travel agents at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York. More... [694 views] Hong Kong - Serviced Apartments Offer Hotel-Style LivingThe concept of a furnished apartment with cleaning services is nothing new. Picture a college dormitory room with mismatched chairs and second-hand table lamps - most people's first taste of living on their own. But over the past decade, the serviced apartment and the features that come with it have become increasingly more luxurious and sophisticated, particularly in Asia. More... [756 views] Executive movements at Six SensesSix Senses Spas has appointed a new Managing Director, a Director Development and a new General Manager for its Evason resorts in Hua Hin. More... [1436 views] Executive Recruiting Within The Chain Restaurant IndustryWhat Should You Expect From The Executive Search Firm/Process To Secure The Best And The Brightest? By David Mansbach, HVS International More... [636 views] Boston Hotel Market Review - 2006The Boston lodging market outlook remains positive, with some uncertainty associated with new 4 star inventory and a sluggish commercial segment. However, the city is fundamentally sound and is expected to remain attractive for hotel investment. By Erich Baum and Thomas Dolan, HVS International More... [594 views] Rodeway Inn Brand Finishes Year with a Fourth Quarter FrenzyChoice Hotels International, Inc. recently announced record-breaking growth for its Rodeway Inn brand. A total of 75 new Rodeway Inn hotel contracts were executed in 2005 — the best year ever for the brand according to Kevin Bradt, senior director, brand strategy for the Choice economy brands. More... [458 views] Hotel guests take home sleek, clean style ideasWhen Shari Savitch stays at the fashionable W Hotel in Chicago, she feels remarkably at home, and it's not just because of the pillow-top mattress or the crisp linens. Not unlike the guest rooms at the W, Savitch's two-bedroom Beacon Hill condominium possesses all the earmarks of a posh boutique hotel. Her clutter-free bedroom is a study in sleek minimalism, and the living room is a meticulously planned gathering area that could very well be located in a secluded nook off a swank lobby. All that's missing is the cocktail lounge with a DJ spinning records. More... [782 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 6, 2006Andrew Cosslett: 'Emotional contracts': at his hotels, the shareholders aren't disturbedMore... [1310 views] Nearly A Third Of The Hotel Chain Supply In France Changed Owners In 2005The 10th Hotel Makers Forum, organized by MKG, was the occasion to look back at the evolution of the French hotels supply. It posts a light growth of 0,1% at the beginning of 2006, masking the continuation of a more intense reorganization. The supply of independent budget hotels is shrinking a little more every year whereas corporate hotel brands located in the 0-1* categories are clearly progressing. More... [658 views] Starwood Hotels & Resorts Names Chad Waetzig Senior Vice President of Marketing for Sheraton HotelsEx-Marriott Executive to Spearhead Sheraton's New Marketing Strategy More... [854 views] Hotel chain in smoking ban actionThe chairman of one of Britain's biggest hotel and pub groups has begun a legal challenge against the planned smoking ban in Scotland. More... [792 views] The New Rules of PRThe Web has changed the rules for press releases. The thing is, most old-line PR professionals just don't know it yet. More... [1603 views] A First Step Towards India: Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts to Open Business Hotel in Bangalore in 2008In keeping with its expansion objectives Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts (MH&R) is now also breaking into the Indian market. A management contract for a Business Hotel in Bangalore has just been signed with the owning company MS Ramaiah Hotels, a member of the MS Ramaiah Group. The 5-star hotel is scheduled to open in 2008 More... [1300 views] Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo celebrates Grand OpeningThe Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo celebrated its entry into Tokyo society Tuesday with a private lavish gala attended by more than 300 celebrities, dignitaries and society guests. More... [945 views] Thayer Lodging Group Closes on the Sale of the 1,582-Room Grande Lakes Resort in Orlando, Florida for $753 MillionThayer Lodging Group, an Annapolis, Maryland based private equity real estate investment firm, announced that it has completed the sale of the 1,582-room Grande Lakes Resort in Orlando, Florida to Orlando-based CNL Hotels & Resorts, Inc. for $753 million. The closing of the sale occurred on Friday, Feb. 24. More... [690 views] Meritus to open fourth hotel in ChinaLuxury Asian brand Meritus Hotels & Resorts will open Meritus Wanjia Spa Resort, Sanya, Hainan China, its fourth hotel in the People’s Republic of China in July 2006. It offers a unique intimate contemporary Chinese therapeutic experience that will allow you to relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. More... [570 views] Hong Kong Visitor Arrivals in January 2006Hong Kong's visitor arrival numbers reached 2.18 million in January 2006, 15.6% more than in 2005. The increase reflects Hong Kong’s growing appeal during the Lunar New Year period, which is becoming a more and more popular time to visit for leisure. More... [561 views] Largest hotel college in US to open campus in SingaporeThe University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), the largest hotel college in the US, is establishing its first international campus in Singapore on the 10th and 11th storeys of the National Library Building, Todayonline.com reported. More... [835 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 3, 2006Managing risks in an uncertain world - a brand promise?When news of terrorist attacks, hurricanes or other natural disasters first breaks, the initial reactions around the world are shock and outrage, then sympathy with the tragic loss of life and destruction of property. Next the insurers start to take stock and everyone in the tourism, hospitality and leisure industry begins the painful task of calculating the immediate and long lasting damage. More... [864 views] Hotel-to-plane transition easedThe transition from hotel to plane is getting easier as hotel operators pump billions of dollars into technology that streamlines the travel experience for their best customers. More... [858 views] Move over – Doha, Hanoi and Istanbul make an entranceFor the third consecutive year Venice held on to its crown as the best performing market in terms of revenue per available room (revPAR), according to the HotelBenchmark™ Global Ranking Index (GRI). The GRI compares the performance of 165 global cities outside North America on an annual basis. More... [872 views] UNWTO to hold Avian Influenza briefing at ITB 2006The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) will use the world's largest travel fair ITB Berlin next week to hold its first in a series of briefings on avian influenza and preparedness planning. More... [507 views] Steigenberger Hotels Resist Trend Towards Global ConsolidationRunning counter to recent deals that brought U.S.'s Hilton Hotels Corp. together with Hilton International and led U.S.'s Starwood Capital to acquire France's Concorde Hotels, Germany's luxury Steigenberger Hotel Group AG plans to remain independent. More... [672 views] Cornell Study Highlights The Importance Of Intellectual Capital In Franchising SuccessFeatured article from the Cornell Hotel and Restaurant Administration Quarterly Franchising can be a growth mechanism for restaurant companies, but it works best for those that are seeking management talent. On the other hand, selling franchises to gain financing has not been as successful a strategy. More... [659 views] Eric Lepleux Joins Accor As Executive Vice President, Hotel MarketingEric Lepleux, 40, graduated from the Institut Commercial de Nancy (ICN), France and earned an MBA from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (USA). He began his international career in the telecommunications industry, when he joined Thomson Multimedia in 1991 More... [695 views] Welcome to the Sheraton; Ignore the Red StickersMexico City closes a U.S.-owned hotel that evicted Cuban officials amid pressure from Washington, but guests continue to check in. More... [925 views] St. Regis Hotel, Shanghai enables Complimentary Wireless Internet Access throughout HotelThe St. Regis Hotel, Shanghai recently upgraded its wireless Internet access system. Now, all in-house guests can experience complimentary wireless access throughout the hotel, including all the guestrooms. More... [662 views] Rocco Forte's Villa Kennedy in Frankfurt opens its doorsVilla Kennedy is the first of Rocco Forte Hotels’ three German properties currently under development to open its doors, the other two being Hotel de Rome in Berlin (due to open autumn 2006) and a yet to be named Munich property More... [720 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 2, 2006InterContinental hotels sale speeds aheadThe £3 billion asset sell-off by InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) is set to gather pace amid indications that America’s Westmont Hospitality Group is in advanced talks to acquire 25 Holiday Inns and Crowne Plazas in continental Europe for up to £250 million. More... [996 views] European hotel deals hit €16 billion in 2005 – 2006 expected to continue at the same paceLast year saw a record €16 billion in single asset and portfolio hotel transactions representing the strongest figures to date; comfortably surpassing 2004’s total by 42%. A report produced by Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels showed that the sale of large portfolios by international hotel chains in 2005 gave private equity groups, high net worth individuals and institutions the opportunity to acquire highly desirable and rarely traded real estate. More... [576 views] BentleyForbes enters luxury resort and hotel investment marketBentleyForbes, a national commercial real estate investment and operations company, is expanding its investment focus to include resort and hotel assets with the formation of an independent operating affiliate, BentleyForbes Hospitality Group, LLC. More... [775 views] Swire flags boutique hotel plans in Europe: reportHong Kong's Property-to-airlines conglomerate Swire Pacific is on the lookout for boutique hotels in Europe as it expands its hospitality business outside Asia. More... [685 views] Whitbread dashes hopes of break-up as hotels shineWhitbread's budget hotels and coffee shops have traded strongly over the last year and although its pubs and restaurants are still struggling, nothing is up for sale, Chief Executive Alan Parker said on Wednesday. More... [508 views] Ken Dittrich Appointed Managing Director of Paradisus Puerto RicoAndre Gerondeau, vice president of Central and North America for Sol Melia Hotels & Resorts, announced the appointment of Ken Dittrich as the new managing director of Paradisus Puerto Rico. More... [639 views] Thakral reckons Australian hotel sector is ready for a trotAustralia's Thakel Holdings and its tourism and leisure competitors are gearing up for a hotel resurgence after all unveiled better returns for the past six months. More... [668 views] Golden Tulip announces expansion into Morocco with 5 hotelsGolden Tulip Hospitality announces its expansion into the Kingdom of Morocco through the signing of a hotel management agreement for the five existing Farah Hotels. The Superior First Class and Luxury hotels are all located in strategic Moroccan destinations and have all been under operation by parent CMKD for the last 5 years. More... [526 views] Travelocity and TravelCLICK Collaborate to Provide Data for Rate Shopping ToolTravelCLICK, Inc., a leading provider of hotel business process management solutions, today announced that an agreement for web services has been reached with Travelocity, the fifth-largest travel agency in the U.S. The agreement will allow RateVIEW, TravelCLICK’s hotel rate shopping tool, to interface with the Travelocity system. More... [916 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 1, 2006Deluxe Suite, Tub ViewsBoutique hotels tear down wall between bed and bathroom - case of the ill-timed omelet. Hotels have added a new place to see and be seen: the bathroom. Embracing a phenomenon that started in Europe, some boutique-hotel designers are exposing a corner of the room long deemed private -- plopping tubs down next to the bed, installing glass walls between the bathroom and sleeping area, even removing parts of the dividing walls altogether. By Hannah Karp, The Wall Street Journal More... [1245 views] Case Studies Prove Hotel Search Engine Optimisation Delivers ResultsI have a favourite analogy about hotels and how they should view their website and online marketing initiatives; it usually strikes a nerve pretty close to home… By Keith Paulin , Hotel Marketing Workshop More... [967 views] PwC sees private equity boosting hotel 2006 M&AHotel mergers and acquisitions are likely to accelerate this year on record industry profits and growing private equity fund interest, according to a PricewaterhouseCoopers forecast to be released on Monday. Hospitality companies could see between seven and 12 takeovers this year, according to a report by PwC hospitality and leisure analyst Bjorn Hanson. The company had forecast five to 11 deals involving both listed and private companies in 2005 and five to 10 in 2004. More... [604 views] Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group appoints Christoph Zbinden as Corporate Director of Food and BeverageMr Zbinden will be based at Mandarin Oriental’s corporate offices in Hong Kong, and will represent Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s food and beverage interests on a global basis. More... [1201 views] Accor continues hotel expansion in ChinaFrench hotel giant Accor plans to open 10 to 20 hotels in the southwestern province of Sichuan in five to six years, a step forward to expand business in China. More... [703 views] Choice Hotels announces franchise sales and development award winners for 2005Choice Hotels International, Inc.,recently honored its franchise sales and development team for their performance in 2005 at the group’s annual awards dinner at The Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. More... [669 views] NH Hoteles 2005 net profit rises 13 pctSpanish hotel company NH Hoteles said on Monday its 2005 net profit rose 13 percent as strong hotel business offset lower real estate sales. More... [528 views] Best January for London hotels since the MillenniumLondon hoteliers enjoyed the best-performing start to the year since the heady days of 2000 with daily rooms yield up by nearly ten per cent, according to figures released today by PKF hotel consultancy services. More... [588 views] Sylvain Ercoli Appointed New General Manager Of Claridge’sMaybourne Hotel Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Sylvain Ercoli as General Manager of Claridge’s. More... [1314 views] 
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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: March 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 31, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 30, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 29, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 28, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 27, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 24, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 23, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 22, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 21, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 20, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 17, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 16, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 15, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 14, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 13, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 10, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 9, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 8, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 7, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 6, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 3, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 2, 2006Global Hospitality Newsletter: March 1, 2006
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