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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: July 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 29, 2011How to Make Compelling Video Content for HotelsThere's nothing like video to command attention online and showcase a hotel, and yet there's a serious lack of compelling content in the hotel industry. Why? By Daniel Edward Craig More... [808 views] Cornell Software Separates Fake Online Reviews From Real OnesOne of the great things about the internet is the fact that everyday people can share what they know with the entire world, so if they've had a particularly good or bad experience with a business or product, they can notify everyone via customer review websites. The flip-side of that, however, is that business owners can plant fake reviews on those same sites, that either praise their own business or slam their competition. Well, confused consumers can now take heart - researchers from Cornell University have developed software that is able to identify phony reviews with close to 90 percent accuracy. By Ben Coxworth More... [721 views] America's Dirtiest HotelsDirt-caked bathtubs, molding refrigerators and mystery stains are just a few of the horrors travelers say they've found at the Grand Resort Hotel and Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. By Jane Levere More... [1404 views] Hotel Developers: Why a 'Regional Centre' May Be the Key to Financing Your Next Hotel Development or ExpansionIn this article, my partner, Catherine Holmes, gives you the information you need to understand how EB-5 Regional Centers work -- what they are, why you need one, and how to find one or create one. By Jim Butler and the Global Hospitality Group® Hotel Lawyers More... [318 views] Top Ten Wedding TrendsAs the region's weddings capital, The Carolina Inn reveals today's hottest trends. The historic hotel on the UNC Chapel Hill campus has been hosting weddings for the past 87 years and hosts more than 125 weddings annually. More... [1053 views] Venice to Impose New Tourist Tax to Raise £20m to Stay AfloatBritish holidaymakers traveling to Venice face a controversial tourist tax after plans were announced to raise £20million for vital restoration work in the city. By Nick Pisa More... [325 views] New York to Get Another Crop of Small but Perfectly Formed HotelsNew York-based brand Pod Hotel is to expand its chain of compact hotels to several new cities, according to reports. More... [359 views] Diabetic-Friendly Menu is Drawn UpMafraq Hospital and the Grand Millennium Al Wahda hotel have come up with diabetic-friendly options that will be added to the chain's menus across the Middle East. By Hala Khalaf and Zaineb Al Hassani More... [412 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 28, 2011It’s Time for Today’s Technology-Focused Hotel Salespeople to 'Go Old School'Although most of my career focuses on the training of hotel industry sales staff on the supply side of the meetings and conventions business, I sometimes change roles to the demand side when it is time for KTN to conduct our own conferences and meetings. By Doug Kennedy More... [838 views] Hotelier of the Week: Jo StevensonSara Turner speaks to Jo Stevenson, Accor's UK and Ireland sales director, global and national sales, about recovery in the business travel sector. More... [359 views] A MySpace Moment Is Coming ...But Probably For TwitterIt's week three in the battle of the social networks with newly energized upstart (speaking strictly just for social, of course) Google + facing off against Facebook. By Erika Morphy More... [755 views] Glamour As Less Is MoreWhen someone mentions the word hotel, most people will think of luxury or upscale full-service hotels. This is particularly the case for Korea, since the country's main hotel market started with upscale full-service properties by major brands including Hilton, Hyatt, Inter-Continental Hotel Group, and Starwood Hotels. However, such a stereotyped view of hotels has been changing among more knowledgeable travelers. By Jennifer Choi More... [346 views] The World's Best Stop-Over CitiesTraveller writers review seven stopover cities where you can strech your legs and beat the humdrum of a long-haul flight. More... [651 views] At a Hotel on Business? Be on AlertThe discussions about hotel safety recently have centered on what happened in a suite at the Sofitel in New York between Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the former head of the International Monetary Fund, and a hotel maid. By Michael T. Luongo More... [492 views] Hotels Turn to Casual Workers in a Time of Acute Labour ShortageFacing an "acute manpower shortage", the Singapore Hotel Association (SHA) said the industry is increasingly looking to casual and part-time workers to fill the gaps. By Tan Qiuyi More... [384 views] Space Tourism: The Next FrontierIf you think of Earth's orbit and the moon as a big unclaimed territory, ripe for adventure, then you're in for a treat. More... [325 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 27, 2011Working with Marriott to Stay Ahead of the GameEditor in Chief of ehotelier.com, Anne Edwards, chats to John Van der Wallen, the Owners Representative of the Sydney Harbour Marriott to find out what makes a Sydney property cutting edge in a competitive market. More... [857 views] How to Market a Hotel in Ten StepsWhere to start when implementing a hotel marketing strategy? How to promote a hotel with the internet moving so rapidly with new developments every day, week and month ... Here is a 10 step plan on how to market a hotel. By Patrick Landman More... [2438 views] It's Time for a Mid-Year Course Correction: The Results of the Annual Survey on Digital Marketing Are InThe results of the industry's 5th Annual Benchmark Survey on Hotel Digital Marketing Budget Planning and Best Practices are in! Now is the perfect time for hoteliers to re-assess their digital marketing practices, compare notes with their peers, and if warranted, perform a 2011 mid-year course correction. By Max Starkov & Mariana Mechoso Safer More... [769 views] 'A Bakers Dozen' of Strategies for More Productive MeetingsIneffective meetings are frustrating, time wasters and often demoralizing. The following is 'A Bakers Dozen' of Strategies for using organized team or staff meetings with more dynamic and successful results. By Dr. John Hogan, CHA CMHS CHE More... [1061 views] The Greenest Luxury Hotel Chain in the WorldAll luxury hotels of India's leading hospitality chain, ITC Hotels, have been accorded the highest rating: LEED Platinum (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) making it the ‘greenest luxury hotel chain in the world'. More... [718 views] 2010 : A Year of Positives For China Hotel MarketHorwath HTL released its Annual China Hotel Industry Study 2011 (Financial Year 2010) today at the 8th China Hotels Development Conference, organized by the China Tourist Hotels Association (CTHA). More... [433 views] Magic World: Russia’s First Destination Resort Theme ParkProjected to be one of the most unique and compelling entertainment destination resorts in the world, Magic World Russia will encompass over 600 acres and be comprised of multiple theme park concepts as well as hotels, retail, dining and entertainment venues. More... [519 views] Full Speed Ahead For Facial Recognition TechnologyFace.com has been used to tag over 25 billion faces in over 7 billion photos since launching in late 2007. Facebook users had been using the Face.com facial recognition app to tag friends in photos for two years before Facebook stepped on the Israel-based company's toes by making facial recognition a default feature for photo tagging this year. By Kashmir Hill More... [316 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 26, 2011Overbooking from the Hotelier's PerspectiveCertainly during the high season and especially major events, overbooking in hotels is almost inevitable. From the hotelier's perspective, overbooking is the means to optimizing room's revenues. It is the oldest and one of the most commonly used revenue strategies implemented in hotels' operation management to maximize revenue at a particular point in time. By Taoufik Haraketi More... [1636 views] Fall in Occupancy Levels to Claim More Hotel VictimsMore casualties in the hotel sector are inevitable as high levels of debt and a decline in the business travel market continue to take their toll, warn industry experts. By Sarah Bridge More... [578 views] More the Merrier as Hotel Chains Expand through ChinaChina's ever-expanding tourism market is the place all the major players in the world's hospitality industry are eying with envy. And it seems they are all lining up to get a slice of the pie. More... [478 views] Doctor Oppenheim's Hotel Doctor Column: A Letter From His DoctorA Canadian VIP was arriving without his medication, explained the manager of a Sunset Strip hotel. He had asked if the house doctor would prescribe it. I didn't recognize the drug's name, but it probably had an American equivalent. By Mike Oppenheim, M.D. More... [629 views] Hotels for Young, Hip CrowdA hotel that just opened in downtown Brooklyn charging nightly rates starting at just $169 is the latest sign of a new trend in the city's lodging business: limited service, but design-conscious hotels. By Laura Kusisto More... [602 views] STR Reports Global Hotel Pipelines in June 2011According to the June 2011 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report, the Asia Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,240 hotels totalling 307,346 rooms. More... [551 views] Hotel Investors Target the UK's Edinburgh as the Place to Be, says HVS LondonEdinburgh has become the in-place to open a hotel with nearly 1,500 new rooms coming on-stream in the next two years including two properties owned by international hotel chains, according to a new report from hotel consultancy HVS London. More... [395 views] The Best Places to Shop in Hong KongIf you're looking for kitschy souvenirs or Chinese-themed tchotchkes, I suggest you skip this article or better yet, just Google Hong Kong tourist markets. By Blue Carreon More... [698 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 25, 2011Why Twitter is Not Facebook is not LinkedIn...and how to use them right for business! By Gaby Feile, Chief Communication Stylist More... [2286 views] London 2012: A Hotel FirstHow gingerly should travel managers and business travellers approach London's hotels during next summer's Olympic Games? More... [539 views] New Benefits of Booking LateMobile apps are making it easier for last-minute travelers to book hotel rooms and rental cars cheaper-and later-than ever. By Timothy W. Martin More... [550 views] Silencing Snorers Once and For AllSnoring sufferers can finally sleep easy thanks to the first ever snore absorption room that's helping the sleep deprived tune out and nod off from their noisy partners. The new room, which is being trialled by Crowne Plaza is a result of research revealing more than half of UK couples are losing between one and five hours sleep a night due to the snoring and snuffling of their partners. That's up to a decade of lost sleep over a lifetime. More... [514 views] Hotels Rivalling Apartments As Choice Targets for InvestorsA number of large multi-property hotel acquisitions in recent weeks by Hyatt Hotels, Pebblebrook Hotel Trust and Chatham Lodging Trust illustrate the rising appetite for hospitality investments, a quest that's quickly spreading beyond REITs to other institutional and private investors. By Randyl Drummer More... [322 views] Best Five Luxury Hotels in SeoulWhen it comes to Seoul, it's all about fusing tradition with a modern touch, or vice versa. The same goes to the top five list of the best luxury hotels in Seoul. By Rachel Sang-hee Han More... [636 views] Aussies Like Breaks, Not From BrekkieA recent survey has revealed that Australian travellers love the ‘most important meal of the day' so much they're not even prepared to go without their favourite breakfast food items while on holiday. More... [519 views] Las Vegas Showgirls Protest Hotel Resort FeesMarie Osmond is protesting in Las Vegas with dozens of showgirls, calling for an end to resort fees charged to guests at many of the city's hotels. More... [579 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 22, 2011Hotels Missing the Opportunity to Provide Personalised ServicesOne measure of personalized customer service, and perhaps its most objective indicator, is a hotel's willingness to practice it over the phone. Being one of only two possible first impressions a hotel has to work with, the personalized phone call is so simple it ought to be automatic yet it is increasingly rare. Less than 5% by one measure! More... [1321 views] One Night Stands Are ExpensiveOn paper, the formula for success at an extended-stay hotel is very sound. By accommodating guests for an extended period of time, these properties are able to "cover up" the soft spots on their calendars and achieve extraordinary annual levels of occupancy.In addition, the combination of limited services and amenities leads to increased employee productivity and high profit margins. By Robert Mandelbaum More... [687 views] The Guest’s Habits in Experiential HospitalityIn the Experiential Hospitality a new concept is developing regarding the guest, who is no longer seen as a person arriving at the hotel with only his luggage but also one bearing distinctive personal taste, being defined by the design of lifestyle, and comprising, in a very special way, also the habits of the guest. By Osvaldo Torres Cruz More... [1070 views] Positive Mood in the German Hotel Investment MarketActivity in the German hotel investment market remains brisk, continuing the positive development in this sector. The quarterly result for April through June was significantly higher than the result for the first three months of the year. More... [316 views] Guests are Less Satisfied with HotelsGuests are getting less happy with their hotel stays, judging from a new survey. A major culprit: As hotels cut costs, their service and facilities have slipped. By Jane Engle More... [583 views] China Stay Was Exploration in RelationshipsSpeaking on his last day of a month-long trip last week, president and CEO of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Frits van Paasschen didn't have the luxury of "looking at the experience in relief," as questions were fired at him about China. More... [459 views] Hotelier In a Good PlaceSince opening the Time hotel more than a decade ago in Midtown Manhattan, Vikram Chatwal has been a fixture of glittering city life. He briefly dated the models Gisele Bündchen and Kate Moss. He entertained celebrity friends like Naomi Campbell at Nell's, now closed. And in 2006, his family hosted a 10-day, three-city Indian wedding for him and Priya Sachdev, a model and former investment banker, inviting guests like former President Bill Clinton, Deepak Chopra and Sean Combs. By Laura M. Holson More... [484 views] TripAdvisor Hits Its 50 Millionth Review – But Can They Be Trusted?It may be the scourge of many a hotelier, but for thousands of people the review website TripAdvisor has become as much a part of the summer holiday as sun cream and suitcases. By Tom Peck More... [642 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 21, 2011Compute This: The CFO, the Revenue Manager and Successful Decision-MakingBoth Positions Require Strategic Thought and Fast, Relevant Data, By Jean Francois Mourier More... [1283 views] Hotelier of the Week: Stuart DeesonSara Turner speaks to Stuart Deeson, general manager of the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, talks about what to expect from the new property and its home Saadiyat Island. More... [565 views] Cornell Study Proposes Uniform Sustainability Reporting Framework for The Hospitality IndustryTravelers and other consumers increasingly want to know about the carbon footprint and other sustainability information connected with their hotel stay. In response, most hotel companies have developed methods to answer this question-but so far, no single method for calculation has been widely adopted. As a result, travelers find it difficult to compare one hotel to another, and many industry leaders have called for a uniform method of reporting on the many items relating to sustainability. More... [808 views] Natural, Healthy Snacks in Hotel Minibars - What's Next?Hotels and resorts are increasingly stocking minibars with healthier alternatives to traditional high-fat, high-sugar snacks - a boon to business and leisure travelers as well as the hospitality industry. By Anya Martin More... [708 views] UK's Olympic Win Could Leave London Tourism a Major LoserThe official agency behind promoting tourism for London has admitted that the 2012 Olympic Games could lead to a lull in visitors to the capital next year, which may have a damaging impact on the UK's stuttering economic recovery. By James Thompson More... [630 views] Over-Fifties: a Future Market Experiencing ChangeRight across Europe the 50-plus generation is an expanding target group - their holiday preferences are for beaches, excursions and city tours - German over fifties are losing their interest in beach holidays. More... [549 views] Hotels' Post-Katrina Recovery Moves ForwardWhen the Hyatt Regency New Orleans begins welcoming guests in October, its reopening will mark more than a win for the property's franchisor and owner. As one of the last major hotels to shed the scars of Katrina, its reemergence will represent a triumph for the city's hospitality industry. By Patrick Mayock More... [295 views] Tourism Boost, or Just a Phantom of the Oprah?Oprah Winfrey's imprimatur has launched careers, spawned business empires and raised millions of dollars for charity, but the ''Oprah effect'' has not revived Australia's flagging tourism industry in the US. By Cameron Houston & Chris Vedelago More... [441 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 20, 2011Today’s Revenue Management – Is There an App for That?Wouldn't it be great if there was an app that gave us all the answers on strategy and what to do next? We are at a very interesting point in the economic cycle where any decision we make could translate into a home run or a potential meltdown. What path are you on, and how sure are you that your strategy is the right one? By Tim Wiersma More... [1332 views] Financial Pundits Predict Increase In Audits of Hotel Training Programs?!?The big financial news last week was the addition of 157K new jobs in the month of June. The financial pundits are now saying that the job growth - primarily driven by the service sector, which produced 130K of the reported new jobs last month - is an indication that the recovery has regained its footing. By Jim Hartigan More... [546 views] The Need for Clearly Defined and Understood Mission, Values and Principles Has Never Been GreaterAre you prepared to be a "Top Ten" Player in Your Hospitality Marketplace or are you going to continue to be one of the "other" statistics? By John Hogan More... [652 views] Market Intelligence Report Madrid 2011The following article guides the reader through the Urban Hotel Market of Madrid, dealing with the development of the market during 2010 and the beginning of 2011 with a view to the immediate future for the city. By Esther Gladen & Philip Bacon More... [293 views] Heart-Based Hospitality - Create It or Fade AwayThe glimmer of a new dawn in the hotel industry has clearly already appeared, and sooner than I expected. Hotels are indeed already trying to create a heart-centred guest experience. I believe that all hotel groups will in the very near future have to learn how to create a very different kind of guest experience in order to compete - one that is heart-based and not left brain-oriented, and which focuses on heart energy. By Peter McAlpine More... [828 views] The World's Most Outrageous YachtsIf a yacht is the ultimate status symbol, then the owners of these are at the top of the heap. These floating palaces are super-sized, stunning and packed with a whole new world of over-the-top amenities. 'To have a swimming pool, helicopter pad-that's de rigeur,' notes Jill Bobrow, author of the book Outrageous Yachts and editor-at-large for Yachts International Magazine. To be truly outrageous these days, she adds, 'A lot falls on the interior design-it's whether you have gold-leaf faucets or not. Plus, there is a lot of innovative technology.' By Beth Greenfield More... [655 views] Underwater Restaurant at Maldives Hotel Doubles Up as an Underwater RoomThe Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Hotel is indeed a luxury adventure. How many hotels in the world can boast of housing a restaurant under the sea? The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Hotel started its undersea restaurant about five years ago. However, this luxury hotel does not seem content with resting on its laurels. More... [772 views] Tips on How to Make the Most of a CruiseAn independent cruise comparison website has outlined the top 10 ways to make the most out of a cruising holiday for any holidaymaker thinking of embarking on a cruise. More... [452 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 19, 2011Meet the Managers: A One-Two Punch of Social Media and Face Time to Heighten LoyaltyHere's a marketing creed that was scribed into textbooks well over 30 years ago, back when I was an MBA student: People connect with other people, and not necessarily with businesses. For a long time, this wasn't exactly feasible. Even in the hospitality world where personality is king, managers meeting customers on a one-to-one basis wasn't always in the cards. By Larry Mogelonsky More... [939 views] The Story of Mr & Mrs Smith: What it Takes to Procure LuxuryJames Lohan and partner Tamara Heber-Percy are the real-life couple behind the world-renowned, uber-trendy hotel service Mr & Mrs Smith. Their very exclusive booking company finds the most incredible getaways around the world for some of the most fashionable and affluent people around. By Paul Gilfeather More... [769 views] Luxury Hotel and Hospital Concept - A New Business Model?Hospitals and luxury are two words that just don't seem to go together. Or do they? In a recent trend where medical recovery meets the comfort of a luxury hotel, the idea of "hotels bridging health care," or H2H, is gaining ground. By Kathryn Marrone More... [599 views] French Love Full English BreakfastSome French people are as fanatical for fry ups as the British, according to a new hotel food survey. As many as 19% of French people asked said the English breakfast was the best first meal of the day in hotels, the poll by Hotels.com found. More... [385 views] Five Hotel Pools With Sweet PerksWhile most pools are meant for swimming, some luxury pools are meant to bring you into an entirely unique aquatic world. More... [554 views] Hotel Room Rates: Feather softDebra Cook of Denton, Texas, felt she scored a coup after booking her stay at the four-star Loews Philadelphia Hotel for $100 a night Sunday through Thursday last week, on Priceline.com. "You can't beat that rate," said the 11th-grade English teacher, who was here for a five-day conference at the National Constitution Center. But Cook's room savings are costing city hoteliers. By Suzette Parmley More... [364 views] Lenny Kravitz Has His Way With HotelsGrammy-award winning musician Lenny Kravitz is to once again turn his hand to hotel design, according to reports from the US. More... [500 views] Ten Essential Books For The Fashion SetEvery person who aspires to lead a cultured life should start by educating themselves about the personalities and events that have shaped the luxury industry. By Hannah Elliott More... [444 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 18, 2011What Will Be the ‘Next Big Thing’ in Mobile for the Travel Industry?Robert Dawson, VP, Internet Marketing & Web Development Services, Sabre Hospitality Solutions, says one of the next big innovations in the mobile space that will quickly impact the travel industry is the inclusion of the NFC (Near Field Communications) chipset in smartphones. This is also expected to change the way the industry sells travel in the future. By Ritesh Gupta More... [932 views] Hotel Guests Post 4 Positive Reviews for Every Negative ReviewDo you think the majority of consumer reviews on the web are negative? Or that people only go online to vent their anger? The ReviewPro data team analyzed more than 90 million guest-written hotel reviews in 10 languages across more than 65 of the most relevant review sites and online travel agencies (OTAs) and found... By Josiah Mackenzie More... [1303 views] Business Travel Data Forecasts Economic RecoveryData from the June 2011 TravelClick North American Hospitality Review, detailing hotel bookings currently reserved during the period, May 31, 2011 through May 31, 2012, reveals that business travel is leading the way in the hospitality industry followed by leisure and then group travel. More... [665 views] London Hoteliers Urged to Learn From Mistakes of Beijing and Royal WeddingLondon hoteliers are being urged to keep their rates at reasonable levels during the Olympic Games next summer to avoid a repeat of the disappointing turnouts for Beijing 2008 and the recent Royal Wedding in the city. More... [781 views] Quick On the Trigger – How to Have Good ComebacksAre you one of those people who usually find the suitable answer to a verbal attack hours later? Or are you sharp as a knife and leave others speechless when it comes to hefty exchanges? Whichever type you are, I am sure you will like the following story: By Gaby Feile More... [772 views] Hotel That's To the Manor BornIn 1980, a young Angolan boy was helping his brothers tend cattle at the wells of Chana Namuandi, about 100km north of the Namibian border, when a swarm of South African military helicopters swooped down. In his terror, the youngster fell backwards down one of the dark holes. By Jim Freeman More... [445 views] Cleveland's InterContinental to Become 'Wellness Hotel'Banking on a continuation of the medical tourism trend, a hotel on Cleveland Clinic‘s main campus is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation that'll transform it into a 'wellness hotel.' By Brandon Glenn More... [408 views] Trump Las Vegas Bets On Family-Friendly Luxury HotelIt's an unlikely scene at a Las Vegas luxury hotel. A guest with two fluffy white dogs enters the Trump Las Vegas after an afternoon walk and no one balks. A family with kids in tow, pulling along rolling suitcases adorned with cartoon characters, arrives at the hotel's valet. By Amanda Finnegan More... [323 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 15, 2011Legislators Contemplate Bills Protecting Hotel MaidsIn the wake of the sexual assault allegations against International Monetary Fund Chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn, New York legislators are contemplating new proposals that would offer further protections to hotel maids. More... [453 views] Top Ten Social Media Marketing Tips for HotelsHere are our Top 10 tips for hotel social media marketing. We have put these together from daily hands on experience performing internet marketing for our hotels. It is the best list of practical ideas that can be implemented right away. By Patrick Landman More... [1718 views] Top Boutique Hotel Trends RevealedDelegates at the inaugural Boutique Hotel Summit enjoyed a lively discussion about the future direction of the sector with a panel of leading industry figures sharing their 10 top trends for the boutique market. More... [898 views] Hospitality Re-Defined: A Sense of UrgencyDo you have a sense of urgency about what you do, or, are you a procrastinator? By Dale Dyck More... [1250 views] Starwood Eyes Possibility of Listing in ChinaStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide which opened China's first international-branded hotel 26 years ago, is prepared to consider a listing in the country, where its top executives have been based for the past month. More... [502 views] New Visa Inc. Report Shows Lasting Tourism Effects of Mega-Sporting EventsVisa Inc. V, a global leader in payments, released a new report that shows the effects of mega-sporting events and the impact they have on tourism spending in the event host countries. The report analyzes Visa cardholder spending patterns, known as VisaVue Travel data, of three recent mega-events: 2010 FIFA World Cup South AfricaTM, the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games and the Beijing 2008 Olympics Games. More... [283 views] Consumer Online Search for Holidays Double with the Term ‘Cheap Holidays'Consumers in the UK looked to book their holidays well in advance of summer, according to the latest quarterly research by independent search and social marketing firm, Greenlight. Its latest quarterly report, ‘Holidays February 2011' reveals 3.1 million holiday-related searches were conducted on Google in February compared to 1.2 million in the previous quarter. More... [360 views] Formule 1 Metamorphosises with New Cocoon RoomsFormule 1, the brand that revolutionized budget travel, has introduced its new 'Cocoon' room concept into Australia, with F1 hotels in Canberra, Campbelltown and Wentworthville the first to showcase the new rooms. F1 Campbelltown was the very first Formule 1 in Australia, and its refurbishment is well timed as Accor celebrates its 20th anniversary this month. More... [445 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 14, 2011The Most Important ThingIf your goal is to create an iconic and renowned service culture in your company, then service must be The Most Important Thing Your Company Does. Now, I don't mean that you work in a restaurant company that provides great service, or a nursing home that provides great service. I mean that, instead, you work in a great service company that operates restaurants or a great service company that runs nursing homes. More... [1009 views] Lessons in LeadershipThis is titled lessons in leadership, and I am not specifically referring to one company, one brand or one country in that title. For the past three years, even in a tight economy, leading developers have been targeting previously under-served countries and the pace has hastened this past 12 months. By John Hogan More... [1142 views] Economy Takes Bite out of Food TourismSo with less stomachs looking to be engaged in foodie tourism, how are some destinations planning to make guests hungry again? By Caryn Eve Murray More... [418 views] Adi Modi: An Exemplary CareerWhen the leading food critic in London, Michael Winner wrote about his many observations about the makeover of The Bombay Brasserie in April 2009, one thing that struck me the most was that he mentioned that the restaurant had lost his favourite restaurant managers, Adi Modi. More... [664 views] Hotel Chains Score Low for Online Customer UsabilityHotel chains have the least user friendly websites, according to the latest eDigitalResearch benchmark study on usability. By Brad Girtz More... [546 views] Professor Using Software to Get Hospitality Down to a ScienceStarting in August, a graduate-level class in hotel revenue management at the William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration will get a crack at software that's expected to revamp some of the management decisions that define the casino niche. By Liz Benston More... [297 views] Horwath HTL China Publishes Key Markets Update for Q1 2011Horwath HTL China has released its latest quarterly newsletter, in which it reports updates on the performance of hotels in key Chinese markets. According to Horwath HTL China and STR Global, most of the key 13 Chinese markets have experienced strong growth in occupancy, average daily rate (ADR) and Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) in Q1 2011, compared to the same quarter last year. More... [516 views] Hotel Owners Leery of Cost Creep in Industry's RecoveryNow that U.S. hotels are rebounding strongly from their worst downturn in decades, hotel owners say they're fighting a new battle: Resisting the efforts of hotel brands to reinstate costs trimmed during the recession. By Kris Hudson More... [380 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 13, 2011How to Use Social Media to Tap Into the Burgeoning Market of Chinese TravellersAs the American and European economies continue to struggle, Western hotels and travel companies have been turning to emerging countries for expansion and growth. And nowhere are there greater opportunities than in China, the biggest growth market in global tourism, according to the BBC. By Daniel Edward Craig More... [969 views] If I Only Knew Then.............At one time or another in our lives, we have all had that feeling of wishing we had some of the wisdom acquired over the years at some point earlier in our careers or lives. That series of successes, near misses and (admittedly) misevaluations that led to a less than desired outcome when we were younger all helped us to mold our style, our insights and strengthened us along the way. Hindsight is always perfect, yet learning and finding our own unique ways is something that few of us would trade away. By John Hogan More... [506 views] Hotel Chains Woo Chinese Guests with Dim Sum & SlippersWhen you next step into a hotel in the Americas or Europe, look out for a more Oriental flavor to the breakfast buffet, as the world's largest hotel chains step up efforts to attract Chinese customers to their hotels. More... [563 views] Need a Good Hotel Room? Follow the HerdIt's the age-old question in this era of exponentially expanding user-generated content: When you're planning a trip, who can you really trust? Guidebooks? Friends and family? The "wisdom of the crowd" - those online reviews posted by anonymous travelers who may not know what the heck they're talking about? By Rob Lovitt More... [354 views] America's First Gay Hotel Chain Has ArrivedCalled Lords, the gay man's new outpost, courtesy of forward thinking Brian Gorman is conveniently located in the thick of South beach, Miami in a re splendid art deco design. The choice colors? Bright yellow and acquamarine- cause nothing finally says you have arrived than those two colors right? More... [818 views] Protea Buying Stressed HotelsProtea Hotels, Africa's largest hotel group, has spent the past six months creating a "multibillion-rand" fund for the acquisition of financially stressed hotels in South Africa, the Business Day reported on Monday. More... [294 views] Tourism a Poverty Reduction Tool'Given its impact in terms of jobs and income and considering its multiplier effects in other areas of the economy, tourism has proven to be a sector of high relevance in the socio-economic development of our country,' said President Guebuza. More... [305 views] Hilton Worldwide Fitness Centres to Offer Tech-Savvy UpgradesHilton Worldwide's portfolio of hotels - Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Hotels, Homewood Suites by Hilton and Home2 Suites by Hilton brands - are outfitting more than 1,000 hotel fitness centers around the world with new tech-savvy, customizable equipment options. More... [443 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 12, 2011Cornell Service Innovation Roundtable Focuses on Industry InnovationStrategic approaches and tenacious effort can promote innovative guest-service ideas. More... [494 views] Hotelier Out to Beat the MiddlemenEver wondered how it works out for hotel owners when you book a hotel room through an online discount site? By Pullar-Strecker More... [705 views] Is Twitter Turning Us Into Twits?Twitter: the ultimate time-waster or an invaluable social media tool? By Tracey John More... [571 views] Hotels 'Bribe Guests for Online Reviews' on TripadvisorHotels in Britain and abroad are bribing guests to write glowing reviews on the TripAdvisor website in exchange for cash or cut-price rooms and meals. By Colin Fernandez More... [1119 views] Ten Best Hotels that Cater to Both Kids and PetsPlanning fun family trips is an important part of our desire to strengthen bonds with and provide happy memories for our children. Okay, now add a pet or two to the mix. Is it possible to travel with kids and pets and still find a great place to stay? The answer is yes! A surprising (and growing) number of lodgings that welcome families with kids and a dog or cat is making it much easier to take everyone along for the trip. By By Erika Kotite More... [378 views] Wedding Guests Survive Horror Elevator Plunge in Irish HotelFive wedding guests survived a horrifying experience with just broken bones when the lift at their Killarney hotel plunged two floors. By Cathal Dervan More... [612 views] Whisky and Tourism: ‘Perfect Blend for Scotland’Scotch Whisky distilleries and visitor centres add £30.4m to the Scottish economy, according to new research. About 1.3m visitors visited the 52 Scotch Whisky visitor centres and distilleries open to the public in 2010, said a report commissioned by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA). More... [344 views] W Austin Hotel is Expected to Reopen SaturdayBalcony railings made of a safer, laminated glass and framed in stainless steel are expected to be installed soon at the W Austin Hotel and Residences, the building's developer told the American-Statesman on Thursday. By Gary Dinges More... [341 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 11, 2011Shifting From Manual to Automatic in Revenue ManagementConsider the difference between taking the stairs and riding the elevator to get to your high-rise office: By Jean Francois Mourier More... [1342 views] SEO: Modern Day Snake Oil?It never ceases to amaze me, as to how many unsolicited emails my clients get from companies promising to do wonders for a hotel's website in terms of search engine optimization. Usually, these missives are well written in an onerous tone that has GM's questioning their website, their web agency, their director of marketing and often all of the above. What's a GM to do? Just how important is SEO, and can a "specialist" company really help? Above all, is there any value to the whole exercise in terms of true revenue generation? By Larry Mogelonsky More... [1087 views] Solar Powered Energy Management for HotelsYou know the scenario. You check into a hotel and anything goes. The air conditioner gets turned down to the coolest setting AND you open the windows because you want some fresh air. It's not your house. Anything goes. By Jennifer Hicks More... [380 views] Hotelier of the Week: John BeveridgeSara Turner quizzes John Beveridge, general manager of Grand Hyatt Dubai and area director, on the peaks and troughs of Dubai's hotel market in recent years, and what is yet to come for Hyatt in the Emirate... More... [462 views] And The World’s Best Hotel Is…Thousands of miles off the western coast of Chile, you wake up to an expansive view of Easter Island's grassy meadows, grazing horses, and the pounding Pacific surf, then set off on a half-day trek along a volcano rim toward natural rock pools. Your base camp? By Sarah Spagnolo More... [771 views] Dubai Has World's Highest Number of Hotels Under ConstructionDubai has more hotels under construction than any other city in the world, according to a new report by hotel projects tracker, tophotelprojects.com By Elizabeth Broomhall More... [645 views] Orbitz Hotels – iPad App ReviewIf you're planning a summer holiday this year, you may want to check out the new Orbitz - Hotels app that Orbitz released today for the iPad. The Orbitz Hotels app features an intuitive search and booking experience that was specially designed for the iPad. Search the entire selection of Orbitz hotels, compare lodgings, and book your stay in just three quick taps. By Juli More... [311 views] Is Change Stressing Out Your Workforce?In this era of reduction, the employer must get creative to ensure their employees feel valued. But are the changes in your workplace stressing out your workforce? More... [540 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 8, 2011Interview with a 5 Star Hotel HousekeeperElaine Walker of The Stafford gives us the inside track on what housekeepers do at top London hotels - and it's a lot more than you might think! By Andrea More... [1713 views] Small Independent and Boutique Hotels – Online Marketing and Strategic Revenue Management Levels the Playing Field!You know boutiqe and independent hotels have ‘arrived' when most of the franhcise chains now want to offer them franchise services and identities! However, those that want to maintain their independence now have resources to level the playing field with out paying franshise fees to be successfull independents! By Carol Verret More... [878 views] Are TripAdvisor Reviews Bogus? The Reliability of User–Generated ReviewsAs online reviews have grown in popularity, attacks regarding their authenticity and trustworthiness have increased. TripAdvisorTM, the leading online review site for hotels, has been criticized for allowing reviews to be posted by anyone about any hotel, without needing supporting evidence. In an attempt to evaluate the legitimacy of these concerns, we compared results from TripAdvisor reviews with the Market Metrix Hospitality Index (MMHI), a well known hotel customer satisfaction panel in operation since 2001. By Robert Honeycutt More... [1200 views] Hospitality Sector Could Save £724m by Tackling Food WasteThe UK hospitality sector could save up to £724m a year by tackling food waste, according to a report published by WRAP. More... [590 views] Check Safety First Case StudyBarceló Europe was established 80 years ago and it is one of Spain's leading tourism companies and the UK's leading Spanish hotel chain. The group is owned by the Barceló family and has been run by three generations of family members. The chain operates in 17 countries, presenting a well-balanced portfolio of 50 per cent leisure hotels and 50 per cent city accommodation. More... [604 views] Design, Material Choices Might Have Led to Glass Falling from W Austin HotelGlass experts say a series of design and material choices probably contributed to breaking glass falling last month from stylish railings at the new W Austin Hotel and Residences. By Jeremy Schwartz More... [570 views] US Hotel Demand Powers AheadThe recovery of the U.S. lodging industry continues in a pattern established in the first quarter of 2010, with occupancy gains still outpacing gains in room rate. According to the June 2011 edition of Hotel Horizons®, PKF Hospitality Research (PKF-HR) forecasts that the demand for U.S. hotel rooms in 2011 will increase a solid 4.9 percent, while the average daily room rate (ADR) paid by guests will rise a modest 2.4 percent. More... [343 views] B&B Ambiance Appeals to Growing Number of TravellersThe terms 'bed & breakfast' (B&B) and 'inn' conjure up romantic images of stately Victorian houses nestled among majestic oaks, graciously operated by entrepreneurs we secretly admire because they finally decided to follow their dream. Yet how do these seductive images translate into market appeal? Results of the just-released Ypartnership/Harrison Group 2011 Portrait of American Travelers reveal the answer. More... [796 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 7, 2011Hospitality Re-Defined: Housekeeping Staff – Unsung HeroesIt's no surprise to me that another survey has just recently come out that confirms that a guests' number one priority in a hotel is cleanliness. By Dale Dyck More... [998 views] For Women Business Travellers, Focus on the Full Effect, Not Individual Amenities, says Cornell StudyAmenities and features are important, but overall emotional effect is the essential factor. More... [792 views] Ten Excellent Hotels Run by ChefsStarting from the century-old auberges dotting the French countryside, the combination of a satisfying meal and comfy bed is the stuff of great travel. Plus, what can be easier for the diner than stumbling into bed after an all-out meal? By Ratha Tep More... [778 views] Hotel Operations Go MobileMobile technology may be the most significant development in the hotel industry since electronic guestroom door locks. Not only are guests using mobile devices to find, shop and book hotels, but hotel operators and their employees have found many ways to improve operating efficiencies and sales and marketing acumen through mobile computing. More... [788 views] Hotel to Apologise Over Turban EvictionA Brisbane hotel that evicted a patron for wearing a turban is now attempting to locate him to apologise. More... [558 views] ‘Green Fields’ for Hilton HeadDistressed commercial real estate should be converted to green space and parks, Hilton Head Island representatives told U.S. officials last month. By Tom Barton More... [401 views] Concrete Tubing Hotel Surprisingly AttractiveWho would have known concrete tubing could be actually made to look inviting, much less for travellers looking to stay in one of Mexico's more popular destinations? By Kimberley Mok More... [528 views] More Hotels Introduce Digital Detox PackagesWhile hotels are increasingly embracing new sales opportunities enabled by mobile technology, some have introduced "digital detox" packages that offer discounts to customers who forgo using smartphones and laptops during their stay, according to the Wall Street Journal. By Roger Yu More... [632 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 6, 2011The Power of a Handwritten NoteCommunication is too easy nowadays. With the trifecta of a computer, a cell phone and a printer, there's no need to write out personal correspondence anymore. That is, unless you want to make an impact. By Larry Mogelonsky More... [1871 views] Skal International-USA names Llana Y. Smith first Madam PresidentSkal International-USA (SIUSA), a professional organization of tourism leaders, today named Llana Y. Smith as its first ever Madam President. Founded in 1949, SIUSA is the United States affiliate of Skal International, the only international group uniting all branches of the travel and tourism industry. More... [364 views] Data In FoodRFID tags are already used to trace everything from poker chips to hotel towels, but what if these little pellets were embedded directly within your lunch, providing everything you'd ever wanna know about that ham sandwich you're about to eat? More... [335 views] Perfect Sleep is Hotels' PriorityAt a time when getting a good night's sleep seems to be the greatest luxury for travellers, hotels across the world are making sure they provide the right combination of bed, pillows and aroma to induce the perfect sleep for their customers. More... [539 views] The Global Search for the First, World Class Certified™ Hotel or ResortWorld Class Certification ServicesTM (WCCS) has announced the global search for the first, World Class CertifiedTM hotel or resort. This new certification will be awarded to top hotels and resorts that provide an uncompromising, engaging and top-tier experience with flawless execution and passion. More... [465 views] Nine Hotels That Used To House CriminalsEveryone's been on a vacation they wish could last forever, but we doubt any traveler would wish to stay anywhere indefinitely or without choice. By Alexis Shaw More... [562 views] Le Meridien Unveils Innovative Lobby Concept ‘Le Meridien Hub’Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts introduced its lobby concept, "Le Méridien Hub," which re-interprets the hotel brand's lobbies as social gathering places for creative people to converse, debate and exchange. More... [551 views] Airbnb Could Have More Rooms Than Hilton By 2012Shares of vacation rental site Home Away just went IPO today and did well, up 48% from their offering price at the close. Vacation rental sites tap into a big industry ($85 billion in transactions). People are getting tired of staying in generic resorts when using people's homes can be cheaper, greener and more fun. By Bruce Upbin More... [1079 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 5, 2011Creating an Internal Social Media Strategy That WorksEdward Perry, Senior Director, E-Commerce, Worldhotels on discovering how social media fits into your company and proving its worth. By Ritesh Gupta More... [684 views] A Top Head Sommelier Reveals Her SecretsLia Poveda - one of the few female Head Sommeliers - gives a behind-the-scenes view of her exciting job at the Milestone Hotel. By Andrea More... [765 views] Can New Technology Bolster HR Strategy?Sophisticated technologies improve HR efficiencies but also warm the hearts of CEOs and CFOs as they can directly and dramatically affect both top and bottom line. By Douglas M Rosen More... [365 views] It’s Official: The Dumbest Hotel Distribution Idea!In my previous articles I have argued that certain hotel distribution ideas and channels are not only detrimental to the hotel industry from a pricing and branding perspective, but simply do not make any economic sense. By Max Starkov More... [1225 views] Five Critical Trends Hotel Marketers Need To KnowThere is no doubt that user-generated content and the Social Web have sent ripples through our industry, causing us to re-look at the way we approach online hotel marketing. This article outlines five key trends in hospitality that hotel marketers should be aware of as they approach online reputation management. By Paolo Torchio More... [849 views] Europe Leads Tourism RecoveryAccording to the latest World Tourism Barometer from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), all regions saw growth, except the Middle East. More... [1157 views] Hospitality Sector Expands in CapitalAbu Dhabi saw hotels and hotel apartments increase by around 5.5 per cent last year compared to 2009, with the number rising to 116. By Shweta Jain More... [283 views] The Hotel Art That is Good Enough to EatThe life-size sculpture of a father with his two children proved tempting for those passing by in the lobby of the Shangri-La Hotel in Dubai. By Ramona Ruiz More... [470 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 4, 2011The Changing Face of Guest FeedbackOnce upon a time a hotel guest would share their experience directly with the hotelier when they checked out (if asked). They may even have completed an ‘in room' feedback card placed in the room. What was said between a guest and an hotelier was pretty much kept ‘in house'. By Chris Larsen More... [2634 views] Tomorrow’s Future Is Today, You Can Bet On It!To have a truly successful business you need to start grooming potential future hospitality industry employees. Here's the inspiration and knowhow on getting this done! By Robert J Nyman More... [669 views] On the Move June 2011Global Staff Movements for June 2011 provided by Spectrum International. More... [2108 views] Hospitality Re-Defined: Crisis Management at an Unprecedented LevelI read with horror recently of the terrorist attack that took place at the Hotel Inter-Continental Kabul, in Afghanistan, that ended with a NATO rocket attack on the last of the terrorists who were making their final stand on the roof of the hotel. By Dale Dyck More... [488 views] UNWTO Tourism Highlights 2010Over time, an ever increasing number of destinations have opened up and invested in tourism development, turning modern tourism into a key driver of socio-economic progress through the creation of jobs and enterprises, infrastructure development and the export revenues earned. More... [800 views] Hilton Plans to End Franchise Deal with Las Vegas HiltonIs an iconic Las Vegas hotel brand name looking for a new home? By Chris Sieroty More... [472 views] Google Chrome Scores Virgin, Ace Hotel Deals, But iPad Stays For FreeThe latest travel trend is incorporating tech into offerings at hotels, airports, on airplanes and more. Virgin America and Ace Hotel in NYC have announced partnerships with Google to provide guests with Chromebooks for free on select flights. iPads, however, are already lots of other places. By Austin Carr More... [364 views] Manpower Crunch Plagues Hospitality IndustryAs India's hotel industry readies for unprecedented growth, it is about to face a manpower crisis the likes of which it has never seen before. Too few people are being trained for the industry; many of those who have received the training choose greener pastures and fierce fights break out regularly to keep or poach the few who remain. All this while a new hotel or restaurant is being added every week. More... [510 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 1, 2011New York Hotel Maids Have Had EnoughIn recent weeks, former IMF chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn allegedly assaulted a housekeeper at the Sofitel Hotel and an Egyptian banker assaulted a maid at the Pierre Hotel. Meanwhile, a Hilton Hotel maid says a naked tourist chased her screaming "I need sex! I need sex!" By Elizabeth Flock More... [1242 views] Hotels' Discount Rates Can Cost You PlentyFollowing the lead of the airline industry, hotels are increasingly imposing no-refund rules on discounted rooms. For anyone not paying attention, it's easy to get burned. By Scott McCartney More... [588 views] Coyle Hospitality Group Reveals Trends and Priorities of Today's SpaCoyle Hospitality Group, a market leader providing mystery shopping and market research services exclusively to hospitality companies worldwide, announces the results of its 2011 Global Spa Report completed by 1,025 respondents from 34 countries on 6 continents in March 2011. More... [450 views] Hospitality Re-Defined: How Long is Too Long?If you've been involved in the recruitment process at any time in your career, you have undoubtedly gotten in the habit of looking for gaps in employment in peoples' resumes, and, given the opportunity to do so, you have asked the applicant to explain those gaps. By Dale Dyck More... [606 views] Hotel Lawyer: How Do You Know When You Should Set Up a Captive Insurance Company for Your Hotel? Take Our 'Litmus Test'My partner, Gordon Schaller, is one of the top experts in the country advising businesses on how to set up a captive insurance company and his recent posts in the Hotel Law Blog have been of particular interest to hotel owners who want to know if they qualify as potential candidates for captives. Today, Gordon offers a "litmus test" for hotel owners to determine if they should investigate the opportunity to set up a captive insurance company. By Jim Butler and the Global Hospitality Group® Hotel Lawyers More... [303 views] China is the First Country to Bounce Back and Exceed its Previous Construction Pipeline Peaks Set in Q2 2008The Total Pipeline for the Asia Pacific region grew in Q1 to 2,036 projects/505,562 rooms. As measured by rooms, the Q1 2011 Pipeline is virtually even with the peak reached in Q2 2008 and is heavily driven by development activity in China. More... [562 views] Hotelier of the Week: Aldo MelpignanoSara Turner speaks to Aldo Melpignano, development director at San Domenico Hotels, about the hotel business in Italy. More... [602 views] Tourism Industry To Capitalize on Same-Sex MarriageLet the marketing begin! The city and the business community are working on overdrive to roll out the red carpet to the gay and lesbian community since New York became the sixth state to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples. The legislation was signed into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo on June 24 and will allow couples to marry 30 days from the signing. By Lisa Fickenscher More... [363 views] 
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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: July 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 29, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 28, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 27, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 26, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 25, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 22, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 21, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 20, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 19, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 18, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 15, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 14, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 13, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 12, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 11, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 8, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 7, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 6, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 5, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 4, 2011Global Hospitality Newsletter: July 1, 2011
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