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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: October 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 31, 2008Limited service hotels…get in the internet game!Limited service hotels have become indispensable to the hospitality industry, but they share a common dilemma when it comes to staying competitive on the Internet. They often have limited marketing funds and limited human resources to implement online marketing programs. The universal challenge is that, when they look to assign a new marketing responsibility, they usually have to look in the mirror and choose the first person they see. By Neil Salerno More... [1018 views] Home sweet hotelThe increasing popularity of condo-hotel developments has put within reach a lifestyle previously reserved for the rich and famous: living in a hotel. Having been living in a hotel for the past few months, I've discovered that it's not always as glamorous as it sounds. For any aspiring Donald Trumps out there, a cautionary tale. By Daniel Edward Craig More... [1221 views] 10 Green ways to deal with a tough economyAlong with the rest of the economy, the lodging and hospitality industry has reason to be concerned with the current financial crisis. When times are tough, one of the first things that gets cut from personal and business budgets is travel expenses. By Ray Burger More... [1754 views] America's haunted hotelsWe check out some ghostly apparitions at 10 of America's most haunted hotels. These include The Equinox in Vermont, said to be haunted by former First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln; San Antonio's Menger Hotel, whose owners say there are 32 ghosts in residence; and Connecticut's Homespun Farm, an inn with a haunted blueberry patch. Spooky! By Jessica Wakeman More... [1018 views] Vacation ownership properties 101: What are they? How do they work? How are they regulated?Hospitality Lawyer with the fundamentals of vacation ownership. Vacation ownership, timeshare, fractional and clubs have increasingly important roles in hotel and resort development, and repositioning, but as the Panic of 2008 has gone global, we may also find ourselves addressing these projects in workouts, receiverships and bankruptcies. It's time for all of us to dust off the cobwebs and be sure we understand this critical component of our industry. By Jim Butler & David Sudeck More... [1120 views] Reacting to the financial crisis while ensuring sustainabilityThe Sixth International Tourism Forum for Parliamentarians and Local Authorities (Cebu, Philippines, 22-24 October 2008) brought together almost 400 representatives from 78 countries. The participants reviewed the key factors affecting tourism and how national and local governments can contribute to respond to the current economic challenges while not losing sight of long-term sustainability goals. More... [750 views] Hilton hotels corporation accelerates expansion plans for TurkeyHilton Hotels Corporation (HHC) has revealed that Turkey is its most successful international development market and now boasts the largest pipeline of any global hotel group. Over the next two years the company is set to more than double its Turkish estate, following the signing of 11 new hotel contracts in 10 months. More... [805 views] Banyan Tree’s first North American propertyAward-winning Asian hospitality brand, Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts marks its entry into North America with Banyan Tree Mayakoba, located on Mexico's pristine Riviera Maya, amidst the exclusive and ecologically-sensitive Mayakoba development. More... [866 views] Raffles Olympia resort to open in 2011 at the ancient birthplace of the Olympic GamesRaffles Hotels & Resorts continues its global expansion with Raffles Olympia resort, its first property in Greece, which is located near the ancient city of Olympia. The luxury resort is the centrepiece of the stunning 30-hectare beachfront development, and will feature 124 guestrooms and suites, up to 120 Raffles Residences for private ownership, a conference centre, RafflesAmrita Spa and a water sports centre. Guests and owners of Raffles Residences at Raffles Olympia will also have access to a Nick Faldo Signature 18-hole championship course and a nine-hole executive course neighbouring the resort. Residents will have the privilege of playing golf on these spectacular courses, a rarity in Greece. More... [949 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 30, 2008Thinking about buying an island or remote resort?After a relatively quiet 10 months in hotel and resort property deals, Baker & McKenzie's global hotels team is starting to see an upturn in activity. Whether this new transaction flow reflects balance sheet driven disposals, or opportunistic buyers taking advantage of price reductions (or corrections), it is a certainty that buyers and their lenders operating in the hotel and resort industry will be more cautious in the way they conduct transactions. By Robert Williams and Caroline Ho More... [1337 views] Lessons from the Field: A common sense approach to success in the hospitality industry
Greatness is not in where we stand, but in what direction we are moving. We must sail sometimes with the wind and sometimes against it -- but sail we must and not drift, nor lie at anchor. ~ Oliver Wendell Holmes, one of the most widely cited United States Supreme Court justices in history. By Dr. John Hogan More... [1194 views] Latin America's 20 best hotels
From rowdy music to rebellious politics, and even the way they play soccer, Latin Americans have often marched to the beat of a much different drummer than the rest of the world. This is equally true of the hotel scene across this varied, vibrant region. By Joe Yogerst More... [798 views] The Empress who arrived: Elisabeth at Reid'sThe arrival of a truly famous visitor leaves an indelible mark on the history of a hotel. Ultimately, it can influence the entire success of the enterprise, provided you have the right strategy, a smart marketing plan or simply enough patience. Say, approximately 100 years. By Andreas Augustin More... [3173 views] Biggest WIT blazes trail with bold insightsThe fourth WIT-Web In Travel not only set a new record in attendance but blazed the trail with deep speaker insights and significant participation from two leading Japanese online players, and garnered rave customer reviews. More... [472 views] Thai tourism shows declines.Up to August 2008, eight months into the year the Chaophya Park Hotel, a four hundred room 4 star deluxe hotel in Bangkok was exactly on budget and on target to achieve its Gross Operating Profit (GOP) for the year 2008. The YTD occupancy was 79% and total hotel revenue from all revenue streams was 8% ahead of last year. And then came September 2008. By Andrew J Wood More... [900 views] Hotel industry clocks normal growth despite global tremorsIt is business as usual for the country's high-end premium hospitality segment though many companies world over have announced cutting down on travel plans. More... [664 views] Hospitality eBusiness Strategies partners with The Tides Inn Chesapeake Bay VirginiaHospitality eBusiness Strategies (HeBS), the leading online marketing company for the hospitality and travel verticals, was recently selected as the exclusive Internet marketing provider for the Tides Inn, a luxurious four-diamond Chesapeake Bay hotel recognized as one of the Leading Hotels of the World. More... [894 views] Choice Hotels officially launches upscale ascend collection membership programWorldwide lodging franchisor Choice Hotels International (NYSE: CHH) announced the formal launch of its Ascend Collection program in the United States and the Caribbean. More... [584 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 29, 2008STR releases 2008, 2009, 2010 projectionsSmith Travel Research released its revised 2008 and 2009 forecasts and its projections for the U.S. hotel industry's performance in 2010. No growth expected for occupancy and RevPAR, but ADR growth should hold 21 October 2008. More... [1445 views] European Chain Hotels Market Review - September 2008Profit and occupancy fell in most key European hotel city markets during September, according to the latest HotStats from TRI Hospitality Consulting. Average occupancy was down in all of the ten cities surveyed, and only Hamburg reported a year-on-year increase in profit. More... [1252 views] 50 of the world’s best budget hotelsSara Macefield chooses stylish places to stay that won't break the bank. By Sara Macfield More... [1369 views] Center for Hospitality Research Explores Menu DevelopmentThe world's economic slowdown formed a backdrop as more than thirty restaurant professionals, faculty members, and students met at the School of Hotel Administration in September for a roundtable to examine the latest issues surrounding menu development. The session is one of a series of roundtables from Cornell's Center for Hospitality Research. By Jennifer Macera More... [1269 views] Luxury hotels grapple with falling demandEven as midprice hotels began losing business this past summer, luxury hotels continued to fill their rooms. Companies treated the hotels as perks for top executives and quality locations for high-level business meetings. And many leisure travelers considered a stay at a top hotel - even for a couple of days - to be worth the cost. More... [1036 views] Raul Leal, named Hispanic Hotel Owners Association Hotelier Of The YearIn the highest honor that can be bestowed on an individual by the Hispanic Hotel Owners Association (HHOA), President and Partner of Tecton Hospitality and Desires Hotels, Raul Leal was named the first Estrella Award's Hotelier of the Year. More... [535 views] Nearly half of Chinese travellers buy luxury brands overseas price and authenticity cited as main purchase driversAccording to the latest Nielsen China Outbound Travel Monitor nearly half of Chinese international travellers purchase luxury branded goods when they go overseas - with close to two-thirds snapping up fragrance, perfume and cosmetic bargains followed by fashion/accessories/leather goods and souvenirs/confectionery. More... [1038 views] Travelodge to open 22 UK hotels by ChristmasBudget hotel group Travelodge is opening 22 properties in the UK before Christmas. More... [610 views] New Dubai hotel to be inspired by Rajasthan architectureThis West Asian metropolis, home to a booming hotel industry, will soon see a new five-star hotel architecturally inspired by the royal palaces and forts of Rajasthan. More... [975 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 28, 2008Global downturn bites the UK hotel sectorAnalysis by Deloitte, the business advisory firm, has found that hotels across the UK have posted average growth in revenue per available room (revPAR) in the year-to-September. Hotel performance data increased 2.4% to £62, driven by a 3.9% increase in average room rates. Occupancy fell 1.4%. More... [1408 views] STR reports U.S. hotel performance for the week ending 18 October 2008The U.S. hotel industry posted declines in two key performance measurements and was essentially flat in a third measurement during the week of 12-18 October, according to data from STR. More... [558 views] Martin Rinck appointed President, Hilton Hotels Corporation - Asia PacificHilton Hotels Corporation today announced the appointment of Martin Rinck as President Hilton Hotels - Asia Pacific, based at the company's regional headquarters in Singapore. Mr Rinck will commence his duties on 17 November 2008. More... [1538 views] Amadeus' CFO research finds corporate travel managers must strike better balance between service quality and cost reductionCost Control and Beyond, a new report published by CFO Europe Research Services in collaboration with Amadeus, the leading global technology and distribution partner for the travel and tourism industry, has found that less than 40% of CFOs are satisfied with the levels of savings delivered by corporate travel programmes in their company. More... [521 views] Panellists reveal distinctive opinions on the topic of sustainability at Partners In Purchasing seminarOn Thursday 9th October, panelists exchanged views on critical factors within the subject of sustainability in the hospitality industry, exposing various perspectives on this fundamental issue. The debate, which was hosted by Partners In Purchasing, the premiere procurement agency in the UK, took place at Deutsche Bank. It was attended by industry professionals who listened and participated in the lively discussion, centred around corporate social responsibility in the current economic climate. What came to light is that sustainability is a complex concern, being tackled by different approaches, depending on the individual nature of companies. More... [582 views] US: Pipeline Highlights at Q3The Total Construction Pipeline for the United States stood at 5,652 projects/740,272 guest rooms as of the end of Q3. Pipeline counts are down, quarter-over-quarter, 4% and 6% respectively. More... [427 views] Ninth annual resort conference to be held at PGA National Resort & SpaResort industry executives will come together May 3 - 5, 2009 for the Ninth Annual Resort Conference at the PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. The conference, sponsored by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) and the University of Denver's School of Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism Management, is the only event planned by resort executives for resort executives. More... [423 views] Fairmont hotels & resorts to welcome impressive line-up of new hotels in 2009With more than 25 hotels and over 10,000 guestrooms in its development pipeline, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts remains committed to growing its extraordinary collection of luxury hotels, a portfolio that includes unrivaled locations like New York's famed Plaza Hotel, Mexico's Fairmont Mayakoba and the Fairmont Singapore. More... [1486 views] Hilton Foundation Ball smashes fundraising recordsLast Saturday night's Foundation Ball at the London Hilton on Park Lane proved an extraordinary success with £375,000 raised on the night - defying the credit crunch and smashing previous Foundation Ball totals. More... [1010 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 27, 2008UK chain hotels market review - September 2008Occupancy and profit fell at London chain hotels in September, according to the latest HotStats survey from TRI Hospitality Consulting. The sample of 108 full-service London hotels reported a 10.9 per cent fall in profit - expressed as income before fixed charges (IBFC) - to a daily figure of £66.66 per available room. Average occupancy fell year-on-year from 86.8 per cent to 82.7 per cent. More... [792 views] World's top hotel citiesForbes Traveler profiles 10 of the world's best cities for luxury hotels. By Bob Harris More... [1734 views] STR release September 2008 worldwide hotel performance resultsThe global hotel industry recorded declining occupancy rates and mixed average daily rate and revenue per available room results for the month of September 2008, according to data from STR and STR Global. Data for reports was gathered from more than 36,150 hotels comprising 4.93 million guestrooms worldwide. More... [930 views] Kiev's Premier Palace: Centenary in style2009 will become a milestone year for Ukraine's chamber music. Premier Palace, the Most Famous Hotel of Kiev, is celebrating its forthcoming centenary with an exceptional event. Instead of spending zillions at the usual "centenary vanity fair", it decided to stage - in co-operation with the equally famous National Philharmonic of Ukraine - a nation-wide chamber music competition. More... [959 views] Join Bryan Williams, of B. Williams Enterprise, for a live 30-minute teleconference on Wednesday, November 5, 2008He will be discussing the new training course: 7 Principles of EngageMe™. Learn about the great features of this new course, and how you can add it to your training library. More... [587 views] Last chance to book for 2008 BAHA annual conference and IT exhibitionThis is the last chance to book for one of the hospitality industry's leading annual events - the 3rd British Association of Hospitality Accountants (BAHA) Annual Conference and Technology Exhibition, to be held on 5 and 6 November 2008 at the brand new Sofitel London Heathrow at Terminal 5. The conference and exhibition takes on even greater importance against the back-drop of the current global financial crisis and looming economic recessio. More... [404 views] Where are the Japanese?Japan has been one of the most important origin markets for Europe over the last 30 years. Japanese visitors' enthusiasm and discriminating taste have influenced the whole of the European service economy. Attractions, hotels, and shops have all been affected by the need to cater to the Japanese. More... [895 views] HotelsCombined.com partners with Hotels4U.com part of the Thomas Cook GroupWorld's leading hotel price comparison search engine HotelsCombined.com is proud to announce their new partnership with Hotels4U.com, part of the Thomas Cook Group. More... [1159 views] The importance of price vs. revenue in a downturnAs the economic downturn starts to take hold across many countries, a downward turn in demand for travel is starting to affect many travel companies worldwide. This poses key questions - should revenue managers be chasing profit or revenue during this period? Is there a simple strategic solution to leverage revenue management during an economic downturn? More... [1537 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 24, 2008Business goes on...hotel sales tips for an uncertain marketIn a tough market, every room night counts. While this downturn may seem more painful than in the past, business goes on and you need to be out there. Here are several ideas to keep your sales efforts strong. By Leora Lanz More... [2577 views] Australia & the South Pacific's 10 best hotelsForbes Traveler profiles 10 of Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific's best hotels, as gathered from the Forbes Traveler 400 list of the world's greatest luxury hotels. By Joe Yogerst More... [1009 views] Marriott chief warns WTM delegatesTop hotelier, Ed Fuller, president and managing director of Marriott International Lodging, will be making a stark warning at this year's WTM World Responsible Tourism Day. Fuller is in the 'Hot Seat' with Stephen Sackur, BBC World's leading news presenter of the award-winning global TV program 'Hard Talk.' More... [939 views] Holidays: an alternative investmentOpodo.co.uk looks into its crystal globe to see where we will be travelling in 2009. More... [619 views] New PATA report confirms record visitor numbers for ASIA PacificFigures just published by PATA show record numbers of international visitors to the Asia Pacific region. PATA's Annual Travel Monitor 2007, published by the Association's Strategic Intelligence Centre (SIC), states that almost 376 million IVAs (international visitor arrivals) were recorded last year - up from around 347 million in 2006. More... [459 views] EZYield.com sales heat up as travel markets coolEZYield.com, the originator of automated online channel management solutions for the worldwide hospitality industry, has experienced an increased demand for their channel management products as the global economic markets continue to decline. As deteriorating global economic conditions increasingly affect travel, hoteliers are looking to more cost-effective ways to attract guests - namely online travel agencies (OTAs) and travel websites. More... [560 views] The first and only six star hotel ratings system to premiere summer ’09Airlines also to receive six-star rating status as long-entrenched standard for luxury travelers is raised a vital notch. More... [1629 views] Not such a grand mother… go and ask your mumThoughts from a sometimes cynical head hunter on the question Directors of Human Resources, General Managers, VP's and head hunters should be asking potential candidates. Have you asked your mother? By Stuart Mullins More... [907 views] Hilton Shanghai announces appointment of Guy Hutchinson as general managerGuy Hutchinson was appointed General Manager of the Hilton Shanghai in March 2008, a landmark Hilton property that enjoys a reputation as one of the first international hotels to open in China. More... [1045 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 23, 2008Bringing out the best in others brings out the best in ourselvesA key principle for finding personal fulfillment in our journey to hospitality service excellence is realizing that when we bring out the best in others, we simultaneously bring out the best in ourselves every day, every shift, and with just about every guest we encounter. By Doug Kennedy More... [2242 views] Hoteliers underestimated 2007 profits - Will They Lowball 2009?PKF Hospitality Research has been tracking the accuracy of hotel budgets since the late 1990s. During this time, we have learned that hotel managers are very adept at budgeting during prosperous periods for the lodging industry. However, when the industry suffers through a slowdown, the accuracy of hotel budgets deteriorates dramatically. Under poor market conditions, hotels have missed their profit targets by as much as 20 percent. By Robert Mandelbaum and Steven Nicholas More... [986 views] 5 future developments that will revolutionize online hotel marketing"For tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today", says a famous proverb...and what better fit to apply this than in the world of technology and marketing? By Jitendra Jain More... [2048 views] The French hotel industry performance for September 2008In a situation of panic and fear throughout the world due to the financial crisis, should we remain definitely pessimistic or on the contrary stay reasonable while analysing September 2008's results? MKG Hospitality reports. More... [915 views] London's 10 best hotelsForbes Traveler profiles 10 of London's best hotels, as gathered from the Forbes Traveler 400 list of the world's greatest luxury hotels. By Bob Harris More... [1687 views] STR reports occupancy, RevPAR drops in SeptemberThe U.S. hotel industry posted year-over-year declines in occupancy and revenue per available room during September, but experienced a gain in average daily rate, according to data from STR. More... [531 views] Tophotelprojects.com® added more than 270 new construction projects in SeptemberTophotelprojects.com®, the international database for top hotel construction projects, have added more than 270 new luxury and first class hotel projects since September. Over 780 hotel project data sheets have been updated within the last six weeks. In total, tophotelprojects.com® offers 2,869 luxury and first class hotel projects around the world - each with all necessary project data and key contact persons for hotel suppliers. More... [1016 views] Brown's hotel's deputy head concierge, Ashley Harman, is named 'London's concierge of the yearRocco Forte's Brown's Hotel's Deputy Head Concierge, Ashley Harman, was named 'Concierge of the Year - London' at the Morris Golden Keys Concierge awards on 13 October 2008 - and is the first to ever receive the accolade. More... [667 views] Hainan Island, China is next stop for Outrigger Enterprises GroupOutrigger Enterprises Group, announced today that the company has been selected to develop and manage the Outrigger Qingshui Bay Resort, Sanya, China, a new 500 plus room, five-star, full service luxury hotel to be built as part of Qingshui Bay Resort, an exciting new, multi-billion dollar mixed use development being built on the island of Hainan in the People's Republic of China. Located along 7.5 miles of prime beachfront property within Hainan Island's Sanya Administrative Prefecture on the South China Sea, the Qingshui Bay Resort will feature six luxury hotels, a diverse range of residential apartments and villas, multiple championship golf courses and a comprehensive mix of commercial, retail and entertainment offerings. More... [502 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 22, 2008Principles for success - Understanding the Value and Power of Breakfast Part 2Breakfast -English: 1463, from break (v.) + fast (n.). Cf. French. déjeuner "to breakfast," derived from L. jejunare "to fast." The verb dates from 1679. The English word derives from the concept that sleep prevents eating, thus an involuntary "fast" occurs during sleep; this fast is broken by the first meal of the day referred to as breakfast. By Dr. John Hogan More... [1797 views] Hospitality eBusiness Strategies announces the 2009 Benchmark SurveyHospitality eBusiness Strategies (HeBS) of New York, NY, today announced the launch of the 2009 Benchmark Survey on Hotel Internet Marketing Strategies, Budget Planning and Best Practices. After the acclaimed 2007 and 2008 editions, for a third year in a row the benchmark survey will ask hoteliers what Internet formats and methods they are using to reach their customers, what Internet marketing practices they find most productive, why they choose to devote marketing dollars to certain mediums over others, and more. More... [1097 views] The Caribbean’s 15 best hotelsForbes Traveler picks the 15 best hotels in the Caribbean, including La Samanna, Curtain Bluff and Horned Dorset Primavera. More... [859 views] Monte Carlo comes to AsiaOne of the world's richest and most glamorous destinations is out to woo the new rich from Asia and Middle East. Yeoh Siew Hoon catches up with the folks at Monte Carlo SBM. More... [800 views] Revenue Management From the Core of Hotel OperationsThe global financial market is suffering from major incidents like bank bankruptcies and stock market crashes. The hospitality industry also suffers from this ill fate. Hotel occupancy rates continue to decrease in countries like the United States, Germany and other economies around the world. Hoteliers are constantly thinking of ways to improve their profit margin and cash flow, hoping that their hotels can survive this uncertain period. Cutting hotel rates in hopes of a higher occupancy level is definitely not the way to go. Hotel consultants have warned that this is the direct opposite of good revenue management and will bring bad consequences. More... [1803 views] LRA Worldwide's Jeff Gurtman to Speak at International Association of Service Evaluators Annual ConferenceJeff Gurtman, a highly-regarded thought leader in the mystery shopping industry, will address the attendees at the International Association of Service Evaluators (IASE) Annual Conference this Thursday, October 23 at the Union League in Philadelphia, PA. Gurtman is an Account Director with LRA Worldwide, Inc., a leading consulting and research firm in the growing discipline of Customer Experience Management; Gurtman's presentation topic is "Mystery Shopping in the Market Research Arena." More... [862 views] Dusit International sees more potential in short haul marketsDusit International reveals its 2009 strategies to focus on the short haul market from the Middle East and Asia Pacific by increasing the reliance on the short haul Asian and Middle East markets in both leisure and business travellers by 15% next year. More... [755 views] HP launches its first point of sale system in AustraliaHP today launched its first Point of Sale (POS) System for the Australian retail and hospitality market, suited to businesses of all sizes. The HP rp5700 POS System boasts an impressive five-year lifecycle and the latest technologies to ensure superior performance, reliability and flexibility. More... [474 views] Go ahead for Leicester Square hotel and cinemaWestminster City Council has approved plans by the Leicester Square Co-ownership Group to create a new high quality hotel and state-of-the-art Odeon cinema as part of a major regeneration of the South-west corner of Leicester Square in London. More... [607 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 21, 2008Hiring & Engaging a World-Class TeamWhen I was hired over a decade ago to join a hotel, the general manager told me that if in 6-months the team was not better as a result of me being hired, then I've failed. Wow, what pressure! He explained that, just like on a sports team, the primary purpose of bringing in new players is not to take up space on the roster, but rather to help the team win more games. At that moment, I realized that he was not just looking for another "warm body". I could tell that this would be a different place to work. This would be a place that valued my contributions as a person, and one that let me know that my work ethic and dedication would DIRECTLY influence the success of the team. If you're wondering what the job was...it was as a busboy in the hotel's restaurant. By Bryan K. Williams More... [2450 views] Dubai Hotelier to lead 40 local cyclists on 1000Kms bike tour to raise funds for charityCambodia and Thailand will be the backdrop for the mammoth bike ride to raise funds for children with musculoskeletal deformities. More... [1248 views] IHG introduces all new hotel brand to ASIA Pacific – Hotel IndigoLeading hotel group IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) launched its fast growing lifestyle Hotel Indigo® brand to the Asia Pacific region. The brand is set to excite upscale travellers looking for something beyond traditional hotel offerings. More... [981 views] Hilton Hotels Corporation has announced the appointment of Simon Vincent as Area President, EuropeSimon Vincent, previously President of Hilton UK and Ireland, has been promoted to the newly expanded role as a result of Hilton's move to combine the two former geographical areas, of Hilton UK and Ireland and Europe, into one enlarged combined region. More... [937 views] Day Passes available to WIT-Web In Travel, 21-22 OctFor delegates to ITB Asia, Day passes worth SG$620 are available to the fourth edition of the WIT-Web In Travel in 2008 conference. Held on 21-22 October, with a programme packed with 67 speakers and more than 300 delegates, WIT-Web In Travel will deliver on its theme, "Ideas. Execution. Action." The conference, designed to educate delegates as to the future of travel marketing via the internet, promotes active participation and collaboration among members of the travel and hospitality industries. More... [376 views] Preferred hotel group’s “the giving room” surpasses second-year goals, raising $40k+ for charities worldwideIt's the gift that keeps on giving. To mark its 40th anniversary, Preferred Hotel GroupTM set an ambitious goal for the second year of its company-wide global philanthropic initiative, The Giving Room: enlist 40 participating hotels to raise $40,000 (£25,000) for local charities over a four-month period this past summer. However this year's drive far exceeded that mark with 61 participants and donations totaling well over $40,000 (£25,000). The funds raised will benefit communities in 18 countries around the world. More... [526 views] Flowcrete Floor to deliver peace and quiet at Fairmont Development in DubaiGuests and residents of the luxury Fairmont Palm Hotel & Resort being built within the exclusive Palm Jumeirah Development in Dubai will be able to enjoy increased peace and quiet thanks to a performance flooring system from Flowcrete. All the bedroom suites and corridors of the deluxe Fairmont property will be installed with a floor screed system known as Isocrete Acoustic K. The system will help to minimise impact sound between floors as well as providing a hard-wearing surface for installation of the final floor finishes. More... [834 views] Rakuten Travel in China - Flourishing as a small fish in a pond full of big onesOnline travel distribution in China currently portrays an intriguing scenario. More... [619 views] Australians still love a holiday, credit crunch survey revealsA third of Australians have had their holiday plans affected by the global economic crisis, according to a national survey on consumer sentiment. Of those who said they were affected, more than 12 per cent said they had to cancel their holiday because of the credit crunch. The realholidays.com.au survey revealed escaping on a summer holiday ranked next highest on the priority list in terms of disposable luxury items leading up to Christmas, after paying for the core essentials such as the mortgage, rent, credit cards or groceries. More... [600 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 20, 2008The sun continues to shine on the Middle EastAs forecasts for the U.S. and European hotel markets are facing a severe downward adjustment, the Middle East is still going strong. HVS Executive Search takes a look at how hotel developers in the region are faring. By Christian Anklin More... [1099 views] Africa and Middle East's 25 best hotelsForbes Traveler profiles 25 of the Middle East's and Africa's best hotels, as gathered from the Forbes Traveler 400 list of the world's greatest luxury hotels. More... [1983 views] How did the Chinese outbound tourism sector fare in 2008?Without argument, 2008 had been the year China featured most prominently in the media all over the world. Much of this was not complimentary, it has to be said, as the year started with riots in Tibet and a largely embarrassing global torch relay. With a tragic twist of fate, the huge earthquake, which hit Sichuan province in May, provided a counter measure to the hostile media in the West. A terrible natural disaster in terms of lives lost and damage to infrastructure and property, it also proved extremely damaging to the tourism industry in the short term. More... [680 views] Reasons to be cheerful…The ABTA conference brought together financial experts who painted a bleak picture for the travel industry. Companies returning from last week's briefing could not be blamed for believing that half of them won't be returning for next year's event. And the question every travel company manager is asking themselves is: what to do in times like these? More... [650 views] Mövenpick Royal Palm hotel and habitat for humanity announce launch of the 1st house build in Dar es SalaamMövenpick Hotels & Resorts Africa division and Habitat for Humanity Africa & the Middle East, announced on August 22, 2008 the launch of the first house build in Chamazi, Mbagala area in Dar es Salaam. More... [668 views] STR reports U.S. hotel performance for the week ending 11 October 2008The U.S. hotel industry posted declines in all three key performance measurements during the week ending Saturday, 11 October 2008, according to data from STR. More... [575 views] Tourism and the financial crisis - 84th session of the executive council of UNWTOUNWTO's Executive Council agrees to create a "Resilience Committee" to support its Members with accurate economic analysis and response mechanisms. The tourism sector is suffering from reduced consumer demand - business and leisure - and tourism businesses are already feeling the credit crunch. More... [563 views] Le Meridien continues expansion in ASIA Pacific announcing the signing of two new hotelsLe Méridien continues its expansion in Asia Pacific, today announcing an agreement with Wanda Group to open two new properties in China, one in Qingdao and one in Chongqing. Scheduled to open in 2011, the two new Le Meridien hotels further strengthen the Le Meridien brand's growing portfolio in China, and will offer travelers a unique European flair and sophisticated environment designed to appeal to the creative guest. More... [632 views] Travel marketing professionals vie for new award from GoogleThe Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) and Google have partnered to recognize an integrated marketing campaign that exemplifies the best brand impact and consumer appeal with a new specialty award at the HSMAI Adrian Awards Gala, Jan. 26, 2009, at the New York Marriott Marquis. The Google award is a new addition to HSMAI's annual Adrian Awards, a competition that honors the "best of the best" in travel and hospitality marketing in the categories of advertising, public relations and web marketing. More... [517 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 17, 2008TravelCLICK broadens its internet marketing footprint in the UK, delivers £3.3 million of incremental revenue from PPCThe Prima Hotel Group, owner of five prestigious hotels throughout England and Scotland, has selected TravelCLICK to redesign its group and property websites and extend the hotel's online presence. More... [739 views] Asia's 50 best hotelsForbes Traveler profiles 50 of Asia's best hotels, as gathered from the Forbes Traveler 400 list of the world's greatest luxury hotels. More... [2161 views] STR reports U.S. hotel pipeline for September 2008The U.S. hotel development pipeline includes 5,926 hotels comprising 654,590 guestrooms, according to the September STR/TWR/Dodge Construction Pipeline Report released this week. The figures do not include projects in the pre-planning stage for which an architect or engineer has not been chosen. The number of hotels in the development pipeline at the end of the third quarter of 2008 is 12.8 percent larger than it was at the end of September 2007 (5,168), while the number of guestrooms in the pipeline at the end of the third quarter of 2008 is 13 percent larger than it was at the end of September 2007 (569,815), More... [436 views] IHG signs multi-brand, multi-location hotel deal with Shimao groupExtending its leadership position in China, IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) signed a deal with Shimao Group, to open six new hotels under three brands in four cities by 2013. More... [836 views] Keep ahead of the competitionIFH® UK, the leading hotel training and mystery shopping specialist, has launched "IFH® Train & SaveTM" a new program which allows clients to pay one annual fee of £900 to gain access to as many IFH® open training courses as they wish to attend throughout 2009. The company will run courses weekly across specialist hospitality disciplines including Sales, Reservations skills, Revenue Management & Customer Services. More... [623 views] hotelbook.com reports 21% increase in revenue Utell consumer site also realises increased booking ratesUtell Hotels & Resorts has reported a 21% increase in revenue to hotels from January to August 2008 on hotelbook.com, the representation service's consumer site offering more than 6,000 independent, boutique and small group hotels in 2,000 cities worldwide. The site is also reporting average stays of 2.8 days, and an average increase of £8 per night in booking rates compared to 2007. More... [891 views] eMarketer of the year, TIG global, receives additional international honorsTIG Global, the leading online marketing company for hospitality and travel, recently received five WebAwards from the international Web Marketing Association. Each award highlights TIG Global's strength in website design and further supports the company's prestigious title as "eMarketer of the Year;" an honor from the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International that recognized the superior, results-oriented work TIG Global completed for the Georgetown Inn's online marketing program. More... [448 views] Honorary alumnus of the year comes to Michigan State as visiting leader in the school of hospitality businessRobert Habeeb wears a number of hats. He is president and COO of First Hospitality Group (FHG), he is the chairman of the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association, he is The School's 2008 Honorary Alumnus of the Year, and as of September 29, 2008, he is an Honorary Faculty Member and Visiting Leader in The School. More... [389 views] HSMAI global board of directors selects Fairmont Raffles executive as chairmanThe Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) announces Jeff Senior, executive vice president of sales and marketing at Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, as the new Global Board of Directors Chairman. HSMAI Global board members elected Senior to the position at the Sept. 27 board meeting held in Oslo, Norway. More... [596 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 16, 2008Do you hate preparing for interviews?These surefire preparation tips will help you win the top candidat. By Dan Kutis More... [2531 views] Europe's 50 best hotelsIf you're looking for a vacation where the biggest worry is being attacked by armored knights on horseback, this may be the list for you. Converted castles, palaces and fortresses dominate this year's list of Europe's 50 Best Hotels, as chosen by the Forbes Traveler 400 board of experts for the quality of their rooms, service, decor, cuisine, public areas, recreational options and location. By Bob Harris More... [1806 views] Focus on headline topics as the world’s largest tourism convention looks at the future of travelAs a leading think tank of the global travel industry the ITB Berlin Convention Market Trends & Innovations has become an important meeting place for decision-makers. The successful concept of the world's leading travel industry convention continues, with three new aspects supplementing it in 2009. More... [567 views] Hospitality eBusiness strategies (HeBS) announces Luxe worldwide hotels new website launchHospitality eBusiness Strategies (HeBS), the industry's leading full-service Internet marketing services and strategies consulting firm for the hospitality and travel verticals, proudly announces the launch of the new Luxe Hotels Worldwide website. HeBS applied award-winning design and the industry's best practices in website optimization in order to develop a top revenue and lead-generating website, and position Luxe Worldwide Hotels as the premier lifestyle hotel brand. More... [1371 views] Singapore hoteliers celebrate Formula 1 Grand PrixHotels in Singapore reported spectacular results over the weekend of the inaugural SingTel Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix. A review of hotel performance by Deloitte, the business advisory firm, shows that revenue per available room (revPAR) on the final day of the event rose 376.4% to US$570. Occupancy reached 87.9%, the best performing day during the month of September, while average room rates increased just short of 300% to US$648. The two days leading up to the main race also reported strong occupancy and average room rates as the city saw an influx of visitors. More... [689 views] It’s show timeBy its own admission, the industry buzzword for the upcoming International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show (IH/M&RS) continues to be green. The show, which runs from November 8-11 at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, will feature a keynote presentation by former U.S. Green Building Council President and CEO Christine Ervin. Breakout seminars will address the latest environmental trends and issues facing the industry. More... [745 views] Foreign travel for 2009 is very much onForeign travel for 2009 is very much on the radar for the majority who holiday overseas, with 83 percent - who have been on a recent overseas holiday are planning to take another one in the next 12 months, according to ABTA. More... [597 views] Select announces new members for Australia and New ZealandUnique accommodation marketing brand, Select Hotels & Resorts International, is proud to announce the addition of five extraordinary properties to their rapidly expanding Australian and New Zealand portfolios. More... [480 views] Spring edition of holidays for couples magazine unearths emerging – and surprising - destinations for romantic travelWhile tropical escapes and island holidays continue to dominate the couples' holiday landscape, recent Holidays For Couples reader research has unearthed the fact that many couples are now also wanting to experience new - and in some cases quite surprising - destinations. More... [553 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 15, 2008The next big development in hotel revenue managementEarly this month, I had the privilege of speaking at the Travel Distribution Summit, sponsored by EyeforTravel Research in London. I was asked to present my thoughts on "Integrating Profit Optimization and Revenue Management"; the next big development in revenue management. I was immediately captivated by the subject because it sure makes common-sense. By Neil Salerno More... [2334 views] Is your job at risk? – 2008 credit crunch in the hospitality industryOctober 2008 has been a historic month for the global economy. Dramatic terminology that was previously alien to most hoteliers - sub-prime, toxic debts, dead cat bounce, bear market - is now being flaunted as if we are all market experts. More... [1589 views] The importance of behavioural integrity in a multicultural workplaceThe notion of "behavioral integrity" describes the extent to which one person perceives that another lives by his or her word, keeps promises, and lives by professed values. Effective management leadership depends on how employees perceive their manager's behavior on these points, because this drives credibility. Since most managers are neither saints nor demons, employees judge their managers' integrity by interpreting a mixed set of managerial actions and behavior. This study examines how different employee groups might understand and react differently to cues about their manager's consistency. By Tony Simons, Ray Friedman, Leigh A. Liu and Judi McLean Parks More... [1117 views] Poll shows majority of holiday travelers say economic concerns will affect upcoming tripsAccording to the latest poll from Travelocity®, 66 percent of respondents say concerns about the economy will affect their holiday travel plans. Despite their worries, 78 percent plan to travel for at least one of the upcoming holidays. When compared to last year, poll findings revealed a significant change in how travelers are getting to their destinations: 12 percent fewer respondents are opting to drive to their holiday destinations while only 2 percent more people said they would fly. More... [585 views] The repercussion of the credit crisis on the hotel industryMounting fears that the credit crisis is beginning to spread out through the financial system have rocked shares and companies recently. Investment giant Lehman Brothers collapsed, rival Merrill Lynch was bought out by Bank of America, and the US government has bailed out insurer AIG with an $85bn rescue package and state-backed mortgage lenders Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Central banks around the world pumping billions of dollars of extra funding into money markets to ease the liquidity crisis. Today, the US and many other economies are either in recession or near one. While the governments are battling to restore confidence, the hotel industry is already experiencing collateral damage. By Alex Sogno
More... [1224 views] First-ever global sustainable tourism criteriaVoluntary standards help travel suppliers around the world meet increasing consumer demand for products and services that will have positive effects on communities and the environment. More... [1670 views] Holidaymakers are returning to traditional booking methodsHolidaymakers are returning to traditional booking methods and visiting travel agencies again because they believe they offer more security during the economic crisis, according to a media report. By Lindi More... [696 views] The Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne and Siemens sign a partnership agreementThe Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) and Siemens announced the signing of a Partnership Agreement today during a Round Table on the new "Business Models" for the hospitality sector. Professors and students will share their knowledge of the hospitality industry with Siemens who, active in new technologies, will bring all its expertise to the installation of its latest products in the School's demonstration rooms, like the "CyberWall", a precursor of innovations to come. More... [624 views] Hilton hotels signs hat-trick of new deals in EuropeHilton Hotels Corporation (HHC) has signed a trio of long term agreements to add new properties in Poland, Italy and Russia. The deals, which include two new Hilton Garden Inn hotels in Treviso and Warsaw, as well as a Doubletree by Hilton in Perm, Russia, highlight the company's continued growth of its Family of Hotels in key strategic markets across Europe. More... [773 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 14, 2008Marketing a hotel online in a struggling economyIn a tough economy, when your marketing budget shrinks, you need to be careful about how you invest your money. The return on investment (ROI) for online marketing spending is faster than almost any other form of hotel marketing. By Sachin Suri More... [1646 views] The Forbes traveler 400The Forbes Traveler 400 is the premier list of deluxe hotels, as determined by elite luxury travelers. Our board of experts is comprised of the world's most prestigious travelers: respected business leaders, avid globe-trotters, experienced travel pros, elite travel agents and well-known travel writers and editors. Based on their first-hand knowledge, we named the 400 top hotels on six continents, then commissioned professional travel writers to review each property. The result is the world's most comprehensive, in-depth list of luxury hotels. By Jeff Koyen More... [1309 views] Home is where the hotel is (or is it the other way round)Yeoh Siew Hoon's just experienced the best check-out in her life. More... [1248 views] Credit crunch implications for tourism highlighted at Orion CongressOn Saturday more than 200 delegates attended the 5th Annual ORION Congress at Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah which commenced with the time-honoured handing over of the Waka (a traditional New Zealand Maori wooden boat) by Mr Fritz Gubler, Chairman ORION Hotel Schools to Professor Peter Jones, the Master of Ceremonies for the day, as a symbol of best wishes and success for the Congress. The Congress, which focused on the future of tourism showcased topics including the current global economic crisis and the anticipated effects on tourism worldwide. More... [890 views] STR reports preliminary U.S. hotel performance for September 2008STR projects the industry's overall year-over-year occupancy rate for September to be down between 5 percent to 7 percent from September 2007. It projects revenue per available room to be down between 2 percent to 4 percent. In the individual chain scales, STR projects... More... [455 views] H&T sector urged to step up recruitment effort at graduate levelEminent HR specialist and hospitality management expert Professor Joo-Seng Tan* has called on the region's hospitality and travel industry to increase its efforts if the sector is to become recognised as a top level career path alternative for emerging college graduates. More... [866 views] Historic UNWTO ministers' summit at WTMMore than 100 government Tourism Ministers and senior aides will meet at World Travel Market this year to examine the impact of the current economic meltdown. They will look at its impact on the pressing global industry issues of poverty reduction, sustainability and climate change. More... [869 views] 19th TTG travel awards 2008The heavy weights of Asia-Pacific's travel and tourism industry gathered for an evening of celebration at the 19th TTG Travel Awards 2008 Ceremony and Gala Dinner which honored 77 of Asia-Pacific's travel trade organizations deemed the best by readers of TTG Asia, TTG China, TTGmice and TTG-BTmice China. More... [562 views] 69th Skal World congress opens in Taipei, TaiwanThe 7th Annual Skal International Ecotourism Awards were presented by the president of Skal International, Phillip Sims and vice president, Media and Public Relations, Hulya Aslantas in the presence of the Minister of Communication and Transportation of the Republic of China, Dr. C.K. Mao and Taipei City Mayor Mr. Lung Ping Haw, during the Opening Ceremony of the 69th Skål World Congress held in Taipei, Taiwan on October 13, 2008 at the TICC (Taipei International Convention Center). More... [407 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 13, 2008Principles for success – Understanding the value and power of breakfast part 1 of 2In late 2008 with the dreadful global economic cycle facing all of us, we hoteliers must assess each and every asset we have and determine ways to effectively use them. This awareness leads me to an update of the VALUE AND POWER OF BREAKFAST. By Dr. John Hogan More... [2033 views] Study reveals "tech-savvy" travelers' internet habitsThe media habits of tech-savvy travelers - those who, by self-report, are active users of the latest computer, gaming and entertainment technology - differ considerably from those who are less wired according to the "NEXTgen Traveler" survey of 2,559 adults conducted in March 2008. Co-authored by Ypartnership and PhoCusWright, this in-depth exploration of the travel habits and preferences of active users of the latest computer, gaming and entertainment technology challenges some prevailing myths about this emerging market segment. More... [796 views] World’s strangest restaurantsBelow the sea, in the air, or on a bed, restaurants are going to extremes to attract attention. By Nicole Alper More... [1711 views] Google rallies embattled travel marketersWith the travel industry already feeling the pain of the economic downturn, Google on Wednesday convened more than a hundred travel marketing executives at TravelThink 2008 to offer strategies for boosting business, as well as to get feedback. By Mark Walsh More... [533 views] STR reports U.S. hotel performance for the week ending 04 October 2008The U.S. hotel industry posted declines in all three key performance measurements during the week ending Saturday, 04 October 2008, according to data from STR. More... [524 views] Asia Pacific: H1 2008 hotel pipeline reportProjects Scheduled to Start Construction in the Next 12 Months have declined for two consecutive quarters. Q2 stands at 351 projects/88,327 rooms, down 16% by projects from the peak reached in Q4 2007. Early Planning totals declined to 507 projects/92,783 rooms after peaking in Q1. More... [704 views] Uncertain times – the perfect moment for revenue managementThe fear of the recession in view of the banks bankruptcies and stock market crashes is upon us. In addition, the price of raw material is going up. This affects the Hotel industry in Germany, because the desire to travel or an extended weekend away from the city decreases as one looks in the purse, which becomes emptier and emptier. People are wondering what will come up next year. However, for the hotel expert Hans Jürgen Rüffert from the enterprise revway, this is not a reason for a Hotelier to bury his head in the sand. By Hans Jürgen Rüffert More... [922 views] DOCOMO interTouch expanding China presence with more than 100 hotel customersDOCOMO interTouch (http://www.docomointertouch.com), one of the world's largest technology providers for the hospitality industry, has grown its customer base in Mainland China to more than 100 hotels after experiencing consistently strong growth over the past three years. More... [759 views] Choice hotels opens 47 new hotels in SeptemberChoice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) continues to grow with the announcement of 47 newly-opened franchised properties during the month of September. The openings include hotels in 28 states and 5 countries, adding more than 3,800 rooms to the company's existing 460,000-plus rooms. Select properties that opened in September include: More... [591 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 10, 2008Hotel web sites: Your site is your brandThe Internet has revolutionized hospitality as much as it has revolutionized any industry. Yet even as the Web gains importance as a sales channel for business like hotels and restaurants, it's changing fundamentally in terms of what consumers expect from it. By Josh Kelly, More... [2150 views] Hilton Hotels Corporation plans 150 Hotels in Caribbean and Latin AmericaHilton Hotels Corporation today announces expansion plans to quadruple its presence in the Caribbean and Latin America by adding 150 new hotels to the portfolio over the next five years. The company also reveals a new development structure, made up of six dedicated staff, to lead the efforts in achieving this objective. This news underscores the company's stated goal to add 1,000 hotels to its international portfolio in ten years. More... [853 views] Travel industry shaken by economic downturnThe travel industry has been hit hard by the economic slowdown, particularly in the last few weeks. Singapore Airlines has introduced a discount round-trip fare on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays for its Los Angeles-Singapore business-class service. Standard fare remains in effect the rest of the week. The carrier says it depends as heavily on passengers in energy and mining as those in the ailing financial service industry. By Joe Sharkey, More... [1024 views] Orion congress brings world’s tourism movers and shakers to DubaiSpermatoid, IPhones, the Economy and Space among the topics to be showcased at the 5th Annual ORION Congress at Atlantis this weekend More... [770 views] Wall street debacle affects main street donations according to Tripadvisor surveyTripAdvisor®, the world's largest travel community, today announced the results of a recent travel and giving survey of more than 1,200 U.S. respondents to better understand how the public donates its time and money while traveling and at home. The survey is part of the company's "More than FootprintsTM" philanthropic initiative, underway now through Nov. 9, 2008, which enables individuals to help determine how TripAdvisor will donate $1 million to five travel-related nonprofits. More than 320,000 people have voted during the initiative's first three weeks. More... [618 views] Hotels' frequent-stay plans gain steam as airlines grow stingierFaced with a weak economy and high travel costs, members of hotel frequent-guest programs are cashing in points for free rooms at a record rate. By Gary Stoller, More... [659 views] HSMAI launches adrian awards winners’ galleryHospitality sales and marketing professionals now have access to the "best of the best" practices in travel marketing via a new online HSMAI Adrian Awards Winners' Gallery. The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International's annual Adrian Awards honor excellence in travel and hospitality marketing in the categories of advertising, public relations and web marketing. More... [552 views] Exclusive Abu Dhabi beach resort for Mövenpick hotels & resortsOn the basis of a strategic agreement with ALDAR Properties PJSC, a management contract has just been signed for an additional hotel in Abu Dhabi. Situated in the new urban precinct of Al Seef, Mövenpick Hotel Al Raha Beach Abu Dhabi is scheduled to open in 2012. With these plans, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts underlines its strong expansion strategy in the United Arab Emirates. More... [676 views] HotelsCombined.com still calls Australia home partnering with Australian Online TravelThe world's leading hotel price comparison search engine HotelsCombined.com is getting back to their grass roots by partnering with Australian Online Travel websites NeedItNow.com.au and TravelMate.com.au. More... [782 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 9, 2008How the Oregon Q care program answers hospitality’s service training needsWe all start to hum and tap our feet to the Beach Boy's paean to teenage angst and dreams. But, we in the industry share the same emotions, whether we are in Lodging, Restaurants, Attractions, Recreation or Retail. We aim to meet Guest/Visitor expectations, exceed usual Customer Satisfaction indices, frame an overall Experience which is memorable and make some money while we are at it. By John Hendrie More... [743 views] US $700 billion bailout bill is now law! Warren Buffett insightsHospitality Lawyer with insights from Warren Buffett on the Financial Crisis that has created an "economic Pearl Harbor." After the Senate passed the Bailout Bill, he talked about what it takes to win the war of Financial Recovery. Buffett's common-sense insights on the $700 billion financial system rescue package are great. Let's hope our Government listens to the compelling logic of how to make this bailout work . . . and how we will all make out better. By Jim Butler More... [1061 views] Shift from sales to revenue management focus for Middle East HotelsRecent figures released by Deloitte Middle East showed hotel RevPAR growth of 21.8% in the region, and the world's highest occupancy and average room rates at 75.3% and US$180 respectively. More... [857 views] Supranational call for hotel-travel industry ‘goodwill campaign’ in 2009A campaign of ‘intense goodwill' between the hotel and travel trade sectors is being called for in 2009 as the essential basis for tackling an inevitable downturn in demand. Lifelong international hotelier, Niels Pedersen, managing director of the 1250-member Supranational Hotels consortium, believes that the answer to the economic crisis lies in ‘courtesy, co-operation and community spirit'. More... [629 views] September 2008: Coffee Cup Price IndexMoscow is still the most expensive city. A cup of coffee costs nearly seven Euro, 50 percent more than on Paris. The lowest average price for a cup of coffee is 1.40 Euro in Buenos Aires. More... [990 views] Latest data released by PATA suggests deteriorating market conditions starting to "bite"Latest figures released by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) indicate year-to-date growth, although positive, is down over the same period in 2007. These year-to-date numbers are for international arrivals into 39 destinations in the Asia Pacific region. More... [862 views] Rezidor in hotel-building frenzyThe Rezidor Hotel Group plans to open 25 hotels in Africa and 10 in SA by 2010 valued at $1bn. More... [676 views] Hotel trading performance strong, but clouds gatherAustralia's key hotel markets have largely maintained their growth momentum however the challenges arising from global financial turmoil will inevitably slow this going forward. The newly released Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) tourist accommodation data shows growth in trading performance came largely on the back of strong increases in Average Daily Rates (ADR) during the June quarter 2008. More... [823 views] Financial crisis fallout: Strategic hotels pulls out of Aqua projectThe ongoing credit crisis is putting the brakes on a significant Chicago building project. Chicago-based Strategic Hotels & Resorts, Inc. said it is scrapping plans to purchase the hotel development at the Aqua Building, currently under construction and adjacent to the company's Fairmont Chicago Hotel. By Jim Kirk, More... [483 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 8, 2008On the Move - September 2008Hospitality Executive Movements worldwide is provided by Spectrum International Hospitality Services which specializes in executive recruitment for the hospitality industry exclusively. More... [3189 views] The Panic of 2008 puts us in uncharted watersThese times remind this hotel lawyer of some time-tested wisdom. Hetty Green, one of the world's most successful investors who lived in the 19th century said, "Next to my children I love a good panic more than anything else." And why would those words be relevant today? That is the penultimate question today at, By Jim Butler More... [1081 views] WIT to offer ideas to ride out storm aheadLeading travel players from Japan, China and India and investors gather to discuss opportunities. More... [465 views] Strong fundamentals to drive growth in India in the long term according to Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels' India Digest 2008The long-term outlook for India's hotel industry remains upbeat as the country's tourism industry experiences unprecedented growth, according to the latest Indian hotel market outlook report, India Digest 2008, by Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, the region's market leader in hotel investment and advisory services. More... [524 views] TAJ hotels resorts and palaces appoints Helmut H Meckelburg to regional director Middle East and North Africa.Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces, South Asia's largest Hotel Chain of Luxury Hotels and authentic, historical Palaces announces the appointment of Helmut H Meckelburg as the Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa based in Dubai effective July 1. 2008. More... [866 views] Travel distribution Japan specialDuring its organisational review last year, Britain's national tourism agency VisitBritain purposely decided to dedicate some of its resources into three of the world's biggest economies by purchasing power in Asia in China, Japan and India. More... [453 views] International luxury travel market (ILTM) launches new global forum to provide real time industry insightILTM, the luxury travel industry's premier global event, announces the launch of the ILTM Future Forum. Held at the opening of the 2008 ILTM show, it will conduct real time research among up to 1,000 senior luxury travel providers and buyers, creating a unique, up-to-the-minute insight into the health of the industry. More... [650 views] TGIFF – Thank goodness it’s freshstay Fridays!Members of Pineapple Hospitality's FreshStay.com band together to promote the benefits of going 100% smoke free while raising money for charity. More... [464 views] The best service in Korea: InterContinental hotels SeoulInterContinental Hotels Seoul have been awarded the 1st prize in the 2008 KS-SQI (Korean Standard-Service Quality Index) in addition to receiving the same award in 2005 and 2006 from among 61 normal service industries, including hotels, credit card companies, department stores, and airlines, and seven public administration services. The survey was organized by Korean Standards Association and the Joongang Ilbo (one of Korea's major newspapers). This award was formally announced on September 23, 2008 and the awards ceremony was held at the Grand InterContinental Seoul on the same date. More... [707 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 7, 2008Lessons from the field: “A bakers dozen” of strategies for hotel restaurant managers
The recent column, A Bakers Dozen of Strategies for Hotel Food and Beverage Directors, generated a good deal of positive feedback and comments from operators and managers, as all of us in the industry consistently work to regain our confidences and margins resulting from the negative impact of the gas price hike crisis this summer and the current global economic credit emergency. There are limits to what individuals can accomplish, but the following are offered as common sense, high touch actions for those of us supporting our hotels in F&B outlets. By Dr. John Hogan, More... [1444 views] European chain hotels market review – August 2008European chain hoteliers reported a dismal August with substantial falls in demand and profit, according to the latest HotStats survey from TRI Hospitality Consulting. Average occupancy dropped in 9 and profit fell in 8 of the 10 city markets surveyed. More... [1203 views] Hotel bathroom glasses – are they really clean?Following the recent TV expose by Channel 9's "A Current Affair", where spy cameras were placed into sponge bags and left in Hotel bathrooms across Australia to film unsuspecting Room Attendants washing the hotel glasses, the Professional Housekeepers Association of NSW decided to conduct a series of independent tests on bathroom glass cleaning procedures. More... [1820 views] Hilton Hotels corporation announces major expansion plans to quadruple its Caribbean and Latin America portfolioHilton Hotels Corporation has announced expansion plans to quadruple its presence in the Caribbean and Latin America by adding 150 new hotels to the portfolio over the next five years. The company also reveals a new development structure, made up of six dedicated staff, to lead the efforts in achieving this objective. This news underscores the company's stated goal to add 1,000 hotels to its international portfolio in ten years. More... [1114 views] Tourism will grow smartly - World tourism day 2008 think tankTourism growth must be pursued with increasing emphasis on ethics, local community involvement as well as reducing carbon emissions systematically. This is the main conclusion of this year's World Tourism Day (WTD) Think Tank held on the theme "Tourism Responding to the Challenge of Climate Change". The official celebrations took place in Lima, Peru. More... [826 views] Legends and mobile bars, way to goYeoh Siew Hoon catches the Singapore River Festival and gets a whiff of history and the future. More... [612 views] Wyndham Worldwide hosts “Global green day” in 35 locations across six continentsWyndham Worldwide (NYSE:WYN), one of the world's largest hospitality companies hosting nearly 200 million guests each year, held a "Global Green Day," an event to officially kick off WyndhamGreen, the Company's environmental and sustainability program, and launch the WyndhamGreen Web site. More... [718 views] Preferred hotel group™ announces partnership with Ananda destination spa & Ista luxury business and leisure hotels in IndiaPreferred Hotel Group is pleased to welcome the acclaimed destination spa Ananda in the Himalayas and ISTA luxury business and leisure hotels in Bangalore, Hyderabad and Amritsar to its collection of over 650 hotels and resorts worldwide. Both the Ananda and ISTA brands are owned and managed by IHHR Hospitality Private Limited, founded in 1998. More... [1028 views] Banyan Tree residences announces second exhibition in Singapore and Shanghai, and first in Beijing, Abu Dhabi and DubaiSingapore-listed Banyan Tree Holdings Limited ("Banyan Tree"), a leading developer, designer and operator of luxury resorts, hotels and spas, will be hosting its second exhibition in Singapore to showcase its exclusive private villa brand, Banyan Tree Residences. This follows the success of its exhibition in Hong Kong in June this year, which was attended by over 400 visitors and which yielded first-time buyers from Hong Kong nationals and expatriate segments. The Group hopes to replicate its success overseas with upcoming exhibitions in Beijing and Shanghai, China; Abu Dhabi; and Dubai. More... [945 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 6, 2008European hotels focus on rapid increase in direct web bookingsIn 2007, more than 30 percent of bookings came from direct web bookings-a trend expected to grow as consumers make higher-value purchases online. This and other key Internet marketing trends were the focus of discussion for more than 200 European participants in three regional seminars hosted in September by TravelCLICK, the leader in hotel ecommerce solutions. More... [1594 views] Tripadvisor travelers offer glimpse into 2009 trendsTripAdvisor®, the world's largest travel community, today announced the results of its annual travel trends survey of more than 3,000 U.S. travelers. The primary trends identified are that travelers appear to be going lean and green by visiting national parks, hiking, and engaging in adventure activities. A greater amount of Americans said they will be environmentally conscious in their travel decisions in 2009, and more plan to visit eco-friendly hotels in the coming year. More... [1122 views] Crowne Plaza Alice Springs salutes the sunAustralia's sunniest town will soon be home to the country's largest building-mounted solar panel system, following approval of a $3 million photovoltaic (PV) installation at one of central Australia's best hotels, Crowne Plaza Alice Springs. More... [568 views] Hilton foundation ventures into Europe to make a big difference for save the ChildrenHilton hotel guests will be making a big difference this winter to disadvantaged children as the Hilton in the Community Foundation announces a fund-raising campaign to benefit leading UK charity Save the Children. More... [583 views] STR reports U.S. hotel performance for the week ending 27 September 2008The U.S. hotel industry posted occupancy and RevPAR declines during the week of 21 - 27 September 2008, according to data from STR. Average Daily Rate increased. More... [431 views] ZUJI’s online travel trend report January - June 2008Online travel agent ZUJI Australia has released its bi-annual report examining online booking trends in Asia Pacific for the first half of 2008. The report reveals the latest booking trends for hotels and flights, when people book and how they pay for travel booked online. Australian travel trends identify some interesting and perhaps surprising choices as preferred destinations both domestically and internationally. More... [591 views] 5th annual Green day clean-ups organized at Victoria hotels & resortsOn September 27th, the World Tourism Day, 5 hotels of the French group Victoria Hotels & Resorts in Vietnam and Cambodia, held their annual Green Day event to show their commitment to the environment protection and to send a message across South East Asia, as they believe tourism can grow without endanger the local environment. More... [551 views] New images of Foster's spaceport unveiled – exclusiveFoster + Partners has released new pictures of the world's first Spaceport in New Mexico, USA. The 9,000m2 scheme, which was first seen in September last year (AJ 05.09.08) will become the new home for Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic venture. More... [580 views] The Rainmaker Group 5th annual client steering committee meeting taps financial analysts for revenue think tankThe Rainmaker Group announced that its fifth annual gaming and hospitality Client Steering Committee Meeting received record high marks from hotel and gaming executives. The event delivered value in stressful times, according to attendees and presenters alike-including Wall Street financial advisers who urged greater adoption of technology to drive new revenue streams. More... [559 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 3, 2008Building world class hotel brands – one person at a time!Brands play a big role in our decision making and identification process. Wikipedia clinically defines a Brand as "...a collection of images and ideas representing an economic producer; more specifically, it refers to the descriptive verbal attributes and concrete symbols such as a name, logo, slogan, and design scheme that convey the essence of a company, product or service." More... [1865 views] STR Global, STR release August 2008 worldwide hotel performance resultsThe global hotel industry recorded regionally mixed RevPAR results for the month of August 2008, according to data from STR and STR Global. August occupancies fell in every world region. Data for the survey was gathered from more than 36,150 hotels comprising 4.93 million guestrooms worldwide. More... [775 views] Expert panellists now confirmed for free sustainability seminar in LondonAccomplished speakers on the subject of sustainability have now been confirmed for the seminar hosted by Partners In Purchasing Ltd, entitled, ‘The Crunch: Cutting Costs or Corporate Responsibility', on Thursday 9th October. Taking place at Deutsche Bank, Winchester Street, London, it will discuss the issue of balancing the budget and sustainability within the catering industry and is a must for any organisation offering catering services More... [531 views] Molinaro Koger advises on acquisition financing of Hotel Prince De Galles, ParisMolinaro Koger announces that the company has assisted in arranging the financing for the purchase of the freehold of the Hotel Prince de Galles in Paris, on behalf of the Musallam family. The Saudi-based family has owned the leasehold on the property for 16 years. Ali Baheri, managing director of MK's Middle East operations and Ed Blum, managing director of MK's Capital Markets Group, both worked on the transaction. More... [616 views] Knowledge transfer between professionalsThe enterprise revway is offering Workshops all over Germany, presenting knowledge on the subject of revenue management for hoteliers. For the first time, the content of the seminars will also include the topic of F&B as well as restaurant and event revenue management. The Workshop lasts one working day and is suitable for hotel owners, hotel managers as well as employees from the areas of Reservation, Sales, Front Office, Conference Management & Revenue Management. During the Workshops, new ways of how to maximize revenue will be presented. By Hans Jürgen Rüffert, More... [504 views] Assessing the impact of the deregulation of fare filing in JapanThe expansion of Haneda Airport (HND) for international services and the availability of additional slots at both Narita International Airport (NRT) and HND are considered to be vital developments for the aviation business in Japan. More... [1084 views] A new breed of tourist for a very different Paris hotelThe Mama Shelter used to be a multi-storey car-park. Its ceilings and floors are covered with graffiti. It stands beside a disused railway line in what is reputed to be one of the toughest, and least fashionable, areas of Paris. And yet the Mama Shelter is threatening to become the most talked about, and the most trendy, hotel in the French capital after opening two weeks ago. By John Lichfield, More... [878 views] Outlooks and predictions for U.S. lodging industry from the Phoenix lodging conference.The Lodging Conference 2008 at the Arizona Biltmore. What impact will the "Panic of 2008" have on the hotel industry? Here's the take by one Hospitality Lawyer. More... [601 views] Walk the world for just a dropMake every step at World Travel Market in London 'count' this November while raising money at the same time for the industry's international water-aid charity 'Just a Drop.' Celebrating its tenth birthday, the organizers of World Travel Market have come up with the perfect opportunity for you to make your contribution... without having to do anything. The answer lies in the aching feet and throbbing toes which is an inevitable result of a productive and enjoyable day of business at World Travel Market! More... [456 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 2, 2008She gets too hungry, for dinner at eight…. How to Elevate the Dining ExperienceJust picture this. You are at a music festival, seated, awaiting the top performer. He enters, the lights dim, spots begin to cross the stage, the band strikes up. Soon, you are tapping your feet, perhaps drumming your fingers, beginning to sway, mouthing the words, bopping your head. The song moves into the finale. Crescendo! By John Hendrie More... [1232 views] The great business secret—To building your power brandIf you're familiar with the phenomenal success of the film and book The Secret by Rhonda Byrne-read on. If you're not- I invite you to explore the relevance of this concept to your business growth. The concept of The Secret or sometimes referred to as The Great Secret is an infinite power called the Law of Attraction. Are you wondering, "How can this help me build a power brand?" By Carol Chapman More... [1120 views] South America - the next big thing?Great Hotels Organisation predicts a surge in demand for South American luxury travel More... [858 views] Hotel stocks drop as 2009 travel outlook worsensShares of hotel companies dropped on Monday - and plunged further after the House rejected a $700 billion bailout of the U.S. financial system - as the travel outlook for 2009 grew gloomier amid the escalating economic crisis. More... [867 views] Gordon Ramsay's new London hotelThe chef opens his first hotel and restaurant in Camden - with a pop at the Connaught, his old landlord. By John Arlidge, More... [1125 views] Night at the MuseumAmerica's top art cities lure meeting planners with masterpieces and more. More... [494 views] Milestone internet marketing, Inc. wins 5 WebAwards for excellence in internet marketing for hotelsMilestone Internet Marketing, a leading provider of Internet marketing solutions for the lodging industry, announced today that it won five awards in the recently concluded Web Marketing Association's 12th Annual WebAward competition. The websites won the Outstanding Websites and Standard of Excellence awards in the Hotel and Lodging category. More... [488 views] Company sets lofty sights on revolutionizing China's ski resort industryMelco China Resorts (MCR) is the largest operator and developer of ski resorts in China. Currently transforming one existing ski area in Beijing and four existing ski areas in the North Eastern provinces of Heilongjiang and Jili, most notably Sun Mountain Yabuli, MCR is introducing international standards never before seen in China's ski resort industry. The company envisions a network of year-round village centered, destination mountain resorts in China. More... [515 views] Vantage hospitality expansion continues on both sides of the PacificVantage Hospitality Group, Inc. is continuing its fast growing trek on two continents. A Chinas Best Value Inn recently opened in Suzhou City, while Americas Best Value Inn added 11 properties and 643 rooms in August, bringing the year-to-date total to a record-setting 97 new members in just eight months. More... [366 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 1, 2008The panic of 2008. Financial crisis impact on the lodging industry. Hospitality lawyer's take.At the Phoenix Lodging Conference this past week, Mark Woodworth was among the first I have heard to cite the dictionary definition of "panic" and use it to describe the recent bank runs, near collapse of money market funds, and distrust that banks have on lending each other money. CNN, Fox News and other wire services were not far behind using "PANIC" to describe our current financial crisis. By Jim Butler, Hotel Lawyer More... [3581 views] World’s best airport hotels 2008Do you dread the thought of having to overnight at an airport hotel? If so, you need to check our list of the world's best airport hotels. From the citizenM Amsterdam Airport Hotel to the Westin Detroit Metropolitan, the options are more enticing than you might think. We feature ten of the best. By Farhad Heydari and Terry Ward, More... [1373 views] U.S. hotels to bottom out in 2009A new study released today by PKF Hospitality Research (PKF-HR) reveals that demand for U.S. hotel rooms will contract for the next two years. Compounding the negative impact of declining demand is a projected concurrent increase in supply. PKF-HR is forecasting a combined net increase in 2008 and 2009 of nearly 275,000 new hotel rooms compared to year-end 2007. This represents a 6.2 percent jump in accommodations over this two-year period. More... [819 views] The life of a hotel doctor: Referral feesTen years ago, George, chief concierge of the Ritz-Carlton, called. He suffered multiple allergies; during an attack he often asked me to phone a prescription. He could have contacted his own doctor - that is, call the office, leave a message, and wait for a return call in an hour, a few hours, a day, maybe never. By Mike Oppenheim, M.D. More... [757 views] Preferred hotel group makes dollars & senseProof of performance is a concept that Preferred Hotel Group takes seriously, especially when it comes to its annual co-operative marketing programmes. Revenue-generating, return on investment-backed programmes and innovative niche marketing plans like Family Ties have proven to be a winning combination for member hotels, generating in excess of $43,000,000 (£23,365,500) year to date. More... [669 views] Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, RenewBellstar Hotels & Resorts add fourth "R" as Direct Energy's first major hospitality customer to go 100% carbon-neutral. More... [777 views] How will the Plaza play in Las Vegas?Elad properties, the Israeli company that bought the Plaza Hotel in New York in 2004, eliminated 500 of the hotel's 800 rooms in favor of expensive condominiums. By Fred A. Bernstein More... [552 views] Premier Inn sees growth amid slumpBudget hoteliers in the Emirates are eager to expand as the global economic slowdown looks likely to have an impact on its high-end competition. By Amena Bakr, More... [437 views] China does not need the Olympics to engage with the West or build bridges"By hosting the 2008 Olympics, China grabbed the global limelight, for better and for worse." This statement came from Roy Graff, Director of Business Development, Sportsworld, a speaker during EyeforTravel's Travel Distribution and Sales China 2008 conference, being held in Beijing. More... [1047 views] 
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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: October 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 31, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 30, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 29, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 28, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 27, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 24, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 23, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 22, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 21, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 20, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 17, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 16, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 15, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 14, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 13, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 10, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 9, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 8, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 7, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 6, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 3, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 2, 2008Global Hospitality Newsletter: October 1, 2008
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