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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: February 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 29, 2012ehotelier Monthly Book Review: Free Revenue Management eBookThis revenue management ebook is a collection of some of Xotels Patrick Landman's previous blog articles, containing hotel industry best practices, tips, tricks and action steps. It is a dummy or beginners guide to hotel revenue management counting 13 chapters. More... [1753 views] A Hotelier’s Viewpoint on the Current Status of the Flash Sales ModelToday's Discussion Article: Social buying/ Group buying and flash sales sites will undergo a saturation stage in their lifecycle. Many will reach the end of the road but a few strong ones will survive - albeit with some innovative add-ons to the existing business models, says Ricky Ang, vice president - Sales & Marketing, Hotel Equatorial Group. By Ritesh Gupta More... [811 views] Pinterest for Hoteliers – A Guide to Pinterest for Hotels, Resorts and RestaurantsSo what's the big deal, you ask? And, what, pray tell...is it exactly? By Jitendra Jain (JJ) More... [7087 views] Knowledge is PowerAs managing business travel becomes more complex and challenging, good education and training are increasingly vital to businesses. Colin Ellson reports More... [396 views] Priceline May Pass Expedia For No. 1 In Online TravelExpedia, the No. 1 online travel agency by bookings, should be looking hard in its rearview mirror. More... [702 views] New Hotel Chain Focuses on Healthier TravellingA new hotel chain is aimed at travelers who want to be healthy while traveling, and will include guest rooms with space to exercise and more nutritious food options. By Samantha Bomkamp More... [927 views] Join the Chain Gang: Why the Big-Brand Hotel Will often Trump the Little IndependentIt may seem hard to believe, yet research indicates that until recently most people saw a hotel purely as a functional base from which to explore nearby attractions. By Frank Barrett More... [305 views] World's Most Expensive CruiseThe world's most expensive luxury cruise package is up for grabs and comes with a price tag of $1.92 million per couple. More... [1150 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 28, 2012Dedicated to Social Media, Part II: InterContinental Hotels GroupFollowing last week's interview with Diego Sartori of citizenM, this week I take a closer look at InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). While the two companies are vastly different in size and structure, they share a common to dedication to social media and to keeping pace with the changing tastes and behavior of travelers. By Daniel Edward Craig More... [1151 views] Top Ten U.S. Meeting Trends for 2012Today's Discussion Article: Benchmark Hospitality International, a leading US-based hospitality management company, which operates 35 award-winning hotels, resorts, and conference centers coast to coast and off shore, announces its "Top Ten Meeting Trends for 2012" as observed by its properties. More... [1296 views] Hotels Handle Pool Lift RegulationsIt is always a good feeling when someone you respect pays you a nice compliment. That's what happened yesterday when GlobeSt.com gave JMBM's ADA Defense and Compliance Lawyers quite an acknowledgement. Miriam Lamey covers the hotel sector for GlobeSt.com. By Jim Butler and the Global Hospitality Group® Hotel Lawyers | Authors of www.HotelLawBlog.com More... [388 views] A Surefire Way to Drive Visitors to Your WebsiteDo you know the fastest way to get on page one of the search engines and drive hundreds (possibly thousands) of qualified visitors to your website? The answer: submit a high quality, keyword-rich online press release. By Charles Gaudet More... [597 views] Groupon Chief Hits Back at ‘Trash Your Brand’ ClaimsThe head of Groupon in the UK has rejected claims that major companies risk "trashing their brands" by working with the discount-deals site. By Ian Taylor More... [578 views] The Downside of Hotel OversupplyWhile an abundance of new locations works to the advantage of tourists in keeping rates down, developers are finding it difficult to recoup their investment and also to keep skilled staff. By Aliwassa Pathnadabutr More... [573 views] Hotel Transactions On the UpTotal European hotel transaction volume rose to €7.1 billion in 2011, an increase of 9% on the €6.5 billion recorded in 2010 indicating that investment activity in the hotel sector is improving, despite the continuing scarcity of debt funding. More... [347 views] Hotel Travel at Your FingertipsAt the new 296-room Aloft Sukhumvit 11 hotel in Bangkok, some guests aren't getting room keys. Instead, specialized smart phones open doors, change TV channels, access room service and adjust air conditioning. By Samantha Page More... [1076 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 27, 2012High Tech and High Class: How Luxury Hotels are Embracing TechnologyTurn up the music, turn down the lights, and start a movie - with the swipe of a finger. Here's how high-tech room controls are making your next luxury hotel room classier than ever. By Krissy Rushing More... [754 views] Best Western Launches Facebook Hotel BookingAs of today, travelers can now book a room at any of Best Western's 4,000 hotels in 100 countries without ever leaving Facebook. By Derry London More... [711 views] Free WiFi Touchdown: The Best TweetsLondon Hotels Insight continues to put pressure on luxury hotels to stop hijacking their guests for extra WiFi charges. We list some of the best recent #freeWiFi tweets below. By Rajul More... [489 views] Twelve Signs That Your Business Is SuccessfulRunning a small business can be confusing. Many owners are just successful enough not to go out of business. The path forward is often unclear. Should they keep the business open in hopes of future success or close up shop? By Barry Moltz More... [643 views] PATA Announces the Grand and Gold Award WinnersThe Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2012 PATA Gold Awards. The awards have long been proudly supported and sponsored by the Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO). This year, the awards recognise the achievements of 21 separate organisations and individuals. More... [264 views] Luxury Hotels Family Goes to WarHe is one of the richest men in Britain, with a fortune estimated at £415million. He has been awarded the OBE, is a former non-executive director at HSBC and is head of the Radisson Edwardian hotels empire. By Sarah Bridge More... [759 views] Global Hotel Pipelines for January 2012According to the January 2012 STR Global Construction Pipeline Report, the Asia Pacific hotel development pipeline comprises 1,479 hotels totalling 359,753 rooms. More... [532 views] A Splendido Place to Mix with the Stars: The Italian Hotel which Offers Something SpecialThe Splendido's 'Golden Book' - the leather-bound volume that lists the signatures of the great and the good who have passed through its reception over the past century - is a veritable who's who of stars and royalty. By Frank Barret More... [264 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 24, 2012The 5 Golden Rules of Social Media ROIFacebook page? Check! Twitter account and dedicated hastags? Check! Competitions, discounts and giveaways? Check! Any real, measurable and abundant ROI from social media campaigns? ... erm, guys? By Marco Saio More... [1661 views] FBI Tips for Hotels: How to Spot Terrorists and What to DoRecently, the FBI and the BJA set up a joint regional intelligence center, a hotline, and published a Release with some tips specifically for hotels and motels. Here are the highlights from the Release, as well as a link to download the full text. By Jim Butler More... [1462 views] Can Budget Hotels Be Service-Focused TooThe Tune approach to guest satisfaction goes well beyond the conventional budget mindset, we discovered on a recent visit. By Rajul More... [905 views] East Caribbean's Top 10 Beach Hotels and Places to Stay on a BudgetIf the Caribbean is calling to you, here are ten small, friendly gems in the eastern Caribbean which won't break the bank: More... [341 views] Presentations Giving You a Headache? Take a Tablet or Two…The rise of tablet computers such as the iPad is transforming the way executives are getting together, with forward-thinking companies opting for event spaces that encourage employees to work together on hand-held devices. More... [486 views] Four Rules of Successful NegotiationNegotiation is part of our everyday lives. We negotiate with our kids about homework, haggle with the farmers' market seller over prices and work out who will clean the dirty dishes at home. Small-business negotiations happen all the time with vendors, employees and customers. By Katie Morell More... [802 views] Current Trends in Hotel SustainabilitySustainability in the hospitality industry used to mean supplying the high-end amenities that visitors wanted at the lowest possible cost, regardless of who that meant doing business with. More... [984 views] Where to Stay for the London 2012 Olympics – Alternatives to Rip-off HotelsYou can still find accommodation for the London 2012 Olympics, and it needn't cost a fortune. Here's our pick of campsites, glampsites, apartments and packages. By Isabel Choat More... [707 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 23, 2012The Curse of Too Much ChoiceWe all want customized experiences and products - but when faced with 700 options, consumers freeze up. With fascinating new research, Sheena Iyengar demonstrates how businesses (and others) can improve the experience of choosing. By Jitendra Jain More... [757 views] Hotels Offer Unusual Amenities to Lure GuestsHotels are going to extraordinary lengths to cater to a guest's every imaginable need. Think a fragrance or tanning butler, a dog surfing instructor and a sleep concierge. By Nancy Trejos More... [930 views] Innovation in Travel: Meet 5 New Companies Who Are Stepping Out of The Box in 2012Today's Discussion Article: EyeforTravel has picked five of the industry's hottest new companies and invited them to "pitch" to our panel of investor judges as part of TDS Europe 2012. Today, we are playing devil's advocate: Who are the participants and what makes their products so special? Plus, what are the questions our dragons (ahem, judges) might be asking? By Rosie Akenhead More... [703 views] Can We Recover From the Disease of Disengagement?There's a reason why employee engagement is the new buzz phrase in HR circles. The epidemic is out of control. By Alexandra Levit More... [483 views] Virgin Hotels Revs Up DevelopmentIn September 2010 Virgin Group announced the launch of a four-star, lifestyle hotel company-Virgin Hotels. Its first planned property, the Virgin Hotel Chicago, opens three years later in fall of 2013. By Paris Wolfe More... [519 views] 2012 HotelClub Hotel Awards in Hong KongHong Kong's reputation for delicious food, outstanding art and shopping is highlighted in today's launch of the 2012 HotelClub Hotel Awards in Hong Kong. Thirty winning and finalist hotels are recognised this year for their excellence in the unique specialties that the region has to offer. More... [334 views] Chinese Hotel Chains Still DominateWhile U.S. hotel companies have made some very impressive inroads into the expanding Chinese hospitality industry, China-based economy chains have the distribution and price points that attract the majority of Chinese hotel guests. More... [357 views] The Most Important Hotel Amenities for TravellersWhen it comes to keeping your guests happy, the best thing you can do is make your hotel like their home away from home. More... [1311 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 22, 2012Can TripAdvisor Transform Itself From an Industry Foe to an Industry Friend?Since its inception back in February 2000, TripAdvisor has become the world's largest travel site with over 50 million users, including 16 million mobile users. There is no doubt TripAdvisor was one of the pioneers of user-generated content. The website re-invented customer reviews in the hospitality space and inserted itself in the "last mile" of traveler's hotel stay planning and booking process. Obviously, a force to be reckoned with. By Max Starkov More... [1355 views] Top Revenue Management Initiatives for 2012Top hospitality executives clearly understand the impact that the discipline of revenue management can have on their operation. It's also no secret that revenue managers today must successfully navigate through an increasingly complex environment in order to effectively drive performance. Much is to be gained if they get it right - results will be less than stellar if they don't. By the HSMAI Revenue Management Advisory Board More... [1351 views] UK Businesses Target Surging £6.5 Billion Indian Tourism MarketA record number of British tourism businesses(1) are to join VisitBritain in India this week, looking to tap into one of the world's fastest growing source markets and reap the benefits of the national tourism agency's £25 million advertising campaign which kicked off in the country earlier this month. More... [550 views] When Tourism Kills the Things It LovesThe Leaning Tower in Italy is protected by UNESCO. But iconic Mount Rushmore in South Dakota and Niagara Falls in New York is not. By David Wilkening More... [464 views] European Hoteliers Fail To Strike the Social Media Iron While It Is HotAs social media take a position of greater importance in almost all aspects of our lives, European hotels still disregard them, unlike their US and Middle Eastern counterparts. More... [627 views] Twisted Coil Designed Hotel to Be Skyline StandoutHyatt Hotels Corporation last week announced that a Hyatt affiliate signed a management agreement for Park Hyatt Bangkok for Central Embassy, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Central Group of Companies. The iconic hotel will be located in a prime location in the city's central business district. Slated to open in 2014, Park Hyatt Bangkok will be housed within a new, modern mixed-use building, bringing the legendary Park Hyatt luxury brand to one of Southeast Asia's leading business and leisure destinations. More... [371 views] Worldhotels Launches Sustainability InitiativeWorldhotels, one of the leading groups of independent upscale hotels, has launched a new Worldhotels Sustainability Programme aimed at assisting affiliate hotels to increase efficiency through sustainability. More... [256 views] Hyatt to Stay in Control of Sunshine Coast Resort despite Allegations of Mis-ManagementHotel giant Hyatt Hotels Corporation has blocked an attempt by billionaire Clive Palmer to remove it as the manager of the Coolum resort on the Sunshine Coast, after Palmer accused Hyatt of poor management and siphoning $60 million in funds from the resort over the past 20 years. By Patrick Stafford More... [599 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 21, 2012Improving Customer Service with Competency ModelsSuccessful organizations recognize the importance of customer satisfaction to their own sustained business success. Leadership of innovative organizations knows they need improved selection, training, and certification in customer satisfaction skills to produce successful, customer-contact personnel. Just one underperforming candidate in the critical, customer-contact role can be an expensive error, costing an organization in lost sales and repeat customers. With the reach of social media, bad "word of mouth" can be even more damaging! By Jim Hartigan More... [676 views] Dedicated to Social Media, Part I: citizenM HotelsBy now most hotels have found a way to accommodate social media. Some are playing lip service and still praying it will go away, whereas others have embraced it fully and appointed a dedicated employee. By Daniel Edward Craig More... [641 views] How to Use Promotions to Drive RevenueToday's Discussion Article: Many of our hotel customers use promotions to drive revenue, earlier bookings, etc. A good benchmark is 30-35% of all revenue from your property should come from special offers. More... [760 views] The Power of Destination SynergyOur Tourism Destinations are in a fragile state. Beset with budgetary restrictions, fast changing travel trends and the always fickle Visitor value-seeking expectation, many Destination leaders are shaken and often resort to the old "shot gun" approach to marketing and delivery rather than collective planning. This is exactly the time to bring the parties together, collaborate on a plan of action and get to it.... By John R. Hendrie More... [461 views] Win Back Former CustomersEvery business hopes its customers are loyal, but the reality is, we've all lost customers-whether it's because they went to a competitor or they just stopped buying for no apparent reason. No matter the reason why they left, here are a few ideas you can use to win back former customers. By Janine Popick More... [548 views] Leaving a Lasting ImpressionWe're all familiar with the sayings about a first impression: a first impression is a lasting impression, you never get a second chance to make a first impression, you only get one chance to make a first impression, it will form a lasting impression within the first seconds, etc. So does that mean if you make a great first impression that's all you need to do? By Caroline Cooper More... [421 views] Will the Meetings and Events Market Continue to Recovery in 2012?According to Smith Travel Research, group demand (measured as a percent of total demand) began to grow year-over-year in March of 2010. Since then, the group occupancy rate has steadily increased, but has yet to reach the pre-recession levels observed in 2007 and 2008. While greater numbers of conventioneers may be seen roaming the lobbies, pre-function space, and banquet halls of U.S. hotels, operators and owners are telling us that negotiations with meeting planners are still contentious and concessions are being made to attract events to their hotels. By Robert Mandelbaum More... [1525 views] Haiti Could Receive First Cruise Ship in a Quarter of a CenturyA cruise ship may soon call at Port-Au-Prince, the first such visit in Haiti after a quarter of a century, a milestone that Minister of the Interior Thierry Mayard-Paul welcomed Friday at a gathering in Tuscaloosa, Alabama with the organizers of the cruise that combines tourism with volunteer work, seeing this as another instance of sustainable development for the Caribbean nation's economy, "breathing new life" into the tourism sector. More... [426 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 20, 2012Retaining Top Hospitality Employees - Differentiating Your Organization's CultureToday's Discussion Article: In today's marketplace, employers are competing for the highest-quality candidates to join their workforce. In turn, today's quality job seekers and recent graduates are carefully interviewing employers as much as employers are interviewing them. This idea that job seekers are interviewing companies in consideration of their employment selection is a dramatic departure from conventional human resources interviewing concepts of years past. By Dan Kutis More... [1029 views] Study Identifies Top Ten Hotel Groups in EuropeThe ranking of hotel groups in the European Union continues to be dominated by the Accor Group, which has three times more rooms than its strongest competitor, Best Western. The difference is increasing since the French group boosted its growth through increased franchising. Of the 40,000 rooms opened worldwide in 2011, one quarter are in France and another quarter in the rest of Europe. Accor Group alone accounts for one-third of the total supply of the top-ten European groups. More... [1157 views] Diversity in the Workplace: Five Ways to Help Your Team Perform BetterWhen we think of diversity, most of us first think of race, ethnicity, gender and age. We think of the legendary Louis Armstrong's lyrics from his song, 'What a Wonderful World'. Yet, diversity in organizations is a much broader spectrum than that. By Bruna Martinuzzi More... [601 views] Five Tips for Planning a Hassle-Free Ski TripWhen it comes to a skiing vacation, getting there is far less than half the fun. Busier airports, tighter connections, and increased baggage fees and restrictions have made travel to ski country a challenge at best. Add in the wild card of winter weather and your best-laid plans can easily turn disastrous. As a veteran ski and snowsports journalist, I've learned a few simple travel tactics to help you save money, avoid hassles, and get to the slopes faster and in a better mood. By Allen St. John More... [386 views] Asia-Pacific Airports Sweep Best Airports Worldwide AwardsAsia-Pacific Airports have once again sweep Best Airports Worldwide awards in the 2011 ACI Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. Seoul Incheon International Airport is the Best Airport Worldwide followed by Singapore Changi Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport. By Theodore Koumelis More... [379 views] Top 10 New London Hotels in 2012New hotels are trying to outdo each other in luxury and value: the upcoming Me by Melia for example will apparently More... [1850 views] Hotel Brands Turn to the Cloud for Revenue ManagementAs hotel systems become more complex and interrelated, new opportunities continue to emerge for hoteliers to boost revenue. Best Western plans to further simplify its rates using automation, meaning even less work for operators on a day-to-day basis when it comes to revenue management. More... [648 views] A Hyatt Heir Who Thinks Small Is BeautifulJay Pritzker, the late billionaire founder of the Hyatt Hotels chain, made a fortune catering to business travelers-who generally values practical over posh. Hyatts are comfortable, conveniently located, and affordable. One thing they are not is memorable. By Nadja Brandt More... [959 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 17, 2012Leveraging the Communications HierarchyHave you ever thought of your communications in terms of a hierarchial order based upon its ability to effectively reach the recipient? With so many options available for you, your sales team and your staff, the topic merits further investigation. By Larry Mogelonsky More... [453 views] Why Do Tragic Events Befall Rock Stars in Hotel Rooms?Tragic things seem to happen in hotel rooms for a lot of rock and pop stars. While fancy hotels are prohibitively expensive for some everyday folks, they're a part of daily life for many top musicians. By Barbara Chai More... [686 views] Hotel Gives Housekeeping Carts the BootGuests at the Renaissance Charlotte SouthPark Hotel will never see a housekeeping cart in the guest room hallways again. According to General Manager Kris Horacek, the luxury Charlotte hotel's cartless housekeeping program has been so successful that she doesn't see them ever making a comeback. More... [3248 views] The Five Ways to Make Yourself MemorableThe formula to marketing success? Being memorable. Throughout our lives we constantly encounter many people from many walks of lifes. Often though, we only remember a select few of those folks. By Mike Michalowicz More... [847 views] Mixed Results for Facebook Among OTAsWith Facebook's looming IPO, the world will know definitively what the market thinks the site is worth. Facebook today is much like the Internet itself was 10 or 15 years go: businesses felt they had to be out there, but often built first and asked questions later. More... [516 views] Five Overwater Ocean Villas To Fall in Love WithIf you're dreaming of ditching your desk for a place where swimming, snorkeling and soaking up the sun are the must-do agenda items of the day, then it's time to consider the ultimate in oceanfront getaways-the overwater villa. By Morgan Lord More... [499 views] Hotels and Restaurants Learn to Connect with Gay Customers and EmployeesWhether its a financial move aimed at company profits or a genuine push toward equality, managers at some of the nation's largest hotel and restaurant chains are learning ways to engage their lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) employees and customers. By Randol Whilte More... [531 views] Apex Lets Wild Animals Loose in Its HotelsApex have just introduced the newest addition to the chain's family of animal mascots, Parvati the elephant. We hear Parvati now resides in the Courtyard at Apex Temple Court eagerly awaiting its imminent opening. By Holly More... [239 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 16, 2012What Are We Busy About?Time! Many people feel precisely the same about the topic and although our industry does pose unique challenges in terms of time management, we can always improve how we manage our time, and it is an issue we should all reflect upon every now and again. By Enda Larkin More... [796 views] No Finger PointingMany people today act as if it is easier to distance oneself and leave via escape hatch if a particular development plan or program doesn't happen, than it is to face the music and take responsibility if the team's or particular organization's plan just didn't work out. By Robert J Nyman More... [452 views] Cornell Center for Hospitality Research Examines Daily Deals and Sustainability IssuesRecently released research from the Center for Hospitality Research (CHR) at the Cornell School of Hotel Administration finds the hotel industry split on whether to use daily deals, also known as flash deals. More... [482 views] Six Ways to Overcome Stress and Reach SuccessFirst she was a lawyer. Then she went back to school to be a therapist. And now, Nancy Linnerooth has made a few adjustments to finally settle into a career that leaves her happy and inspired. By Karlee Weinmann More... [688 views] How to Attain Hotel Elite StatusHotel chains have been loading on the perks for their most loyal customers recently. By Michelle Higgins More... [418 views] Top Hostels and Cheap Hotels Awards for Excellence 2012This month sees the launch of the HostelBookers Awards for Excellence 2012. HostelBookers, the budget accommodation specialist, recognises excellence in the budget accommodation industry by celebrating the winning properties worldwide. More... [360 views] Health Inspectors Say Violations Found at Some Hotels Chosen for DNCAs soon as the DNC Committee announced which delegations get to stay in which hotels, Eyewitness News started going through health records for all 46 of the hotels listed in Mecklenburg County and for their restaurants, spas and pools. By Jason Stoogenke More... [208 views] Hotel Price Wars 'Bad for Business' in Abu DhabiThe company that manages Abu Dhabi's biggest hotel has warned against five-star properties cutting their rates in the face of increased competition, amid fears that price wars in the capital could deepen. By Rebecca Bundhun More... [509 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 15, 2012Let Freedom Ring Part 3:Free WiFi - A Final Word for 2012Today's Discussion Article: I've written two articles in 2011 about the imperative need to offer free WiFi within the confines of your property. But, no matter how hard I preach, real change is often slow. Capital-intensive projects take time. So, for all those who agreed or disagreed with me in the past, and have long since moved on, let me restore your memories with some fresh thoughts on the matter. By Larry Mogelonsky More... [1010 views] Corinthia Hotels Shows You How To Provide 5-Star Service on the Social WebIn a recent keynote speech, one of the most powerful CEOs in the world, Marc Benioff of Salesforce.com, not only mentioned Corinthia Hotels, but showcased the group as an example of a brand that 'gets it.' '[Corinthia Hotels] tweeted right back, engaging in a direct conversation with me. This is a unique opportunity for service that other companies should learn from.' It's hard to put a value on exposure like that. By Josiah Mackenzie More... [1201 views] Post Valentine’s Day Employee Engagement message from Dr. Love...Flowers and chocolates celebrate Dr. Love's favorite holiday - Valentine's Day. Hello out there in radio and blog land, your favorite management and relationship counselor, Dr. Love is here to help you spread the love and build employee engagement in your business. By Jim hartigan More... [291 views] Eight Ways to Add Efficiency to Your Hotel's Housekeeping and Laundry DepartmentAn article came out recently that warns business travelers to watch out for an impending hotel crisis. By Amy Bair More... [987 views] Five Common Social Media Mistakes and How to Avoid ThemMost small-business owners feel strongly about social media. They either love it, hate it or both. If they love it, it's because its tools can create tremendous brand awareness. If they hate it, it's because it's a massive time suck. Regardless of where you stand and how proficient you are at each tool, there is always something new to learn. Here are a few common social media mistakes and tips on how to fix them. By Katie Morell More... [527 views] Consumers Plan to Travel More in 2012In spite of economic concerns, consumers plan to travel more and increase their travel budgets. More... [446 views] Oyster.com's Hotel Tell-All iPad App ReleasedOyster.com, The Hotel Tell-All, today launched a new iPad hotel app which includes more than 600,000 original photos shot by Oyster's trained hotel investigators. The app includes thousands of hotels in the worlds top 125 destinations. More... [424 views] Sixth Annual Benchmark Survey on Hotel Digital Marketing Strategies, Budget planning and Best PracticesSummary: HeBS Digital announces the launch of their sixth annual Benchmark Survey on Hotel Digital Marketing Strategies, Budget planning and Best Practices, asking hoteliers which digital formats and methods they use to reach potential guests, what digital marketing practices generate the highest ROIs, and more. More... [422 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 14, 2012Did You Share the Love on Valentine's Day?Today's Discussion Article: This article serves to identify some important steps to take to maximize next year's fiscal return. By Larry Mogelonsky, MBA, P. Eng. More... [539 views] TripAdvisor for Destination Marketing OrganizationsOver the past few years, TripAdvisor has been expanding its content offerings, evolving from a hotel review site to a comprehensive resource for planning trips. And while the majority of content is traveler-generated, if you're a tourism bureau you have a variety of options to contribute content of your own, to enhance existing content and to promote travel to your destination. By Daniel Edward Craig More... [559 views] Creating Social Media Champions and Success Stories with a Meticulous ApproachThe process of nurturing internal experts that take care of social media marketing initiatives depends on several factors including the company culture, making social media intrinsic to marketing and a brand's business operations, and the model for social media communications that's been chosen for your brand. By Ritesh Gupta More... [417 views] How to Craft the Perfect Social Media ContestCompanies using Twitter to promote themselves and offer giveaways and incentives to followers is nothing new. But as more people integrate social networking into their daily lives, it's important to understand how to do it right. By Karlee Weinmann More... [385 views] Hotel Housekeeping: Should You Outsource Hotel Housekeeping Services?One of the most overlooked, yet essential functions of a hotel is the housekeeping operation, which is fundamental to the reputation of a business and is ranked as one of the top non-negotiable factors by guests. By Phil Benson More... [774 views] Zombie HotelsThey are called 'zombie hotels,' and they are creating major problems for the sector in Ireland. By Frank Corr More... [603 views] Accor Checks Out Hotel Chain's Wider Environmental ImpactHospitality giant Accor has released a major new sustainability report detailing how the company's 4,200 hotels impact the environment, potentially paving the way for the hotel chain to impose new green procurement criteria on some of its suppliers. By James Murray More... [504 views] Trump Hotels Plans New DC LocationIf location reigns supreme, then the Trump Hotel Collection just won a major prize in Washington, D.C. After a long bidding process, the federal government's General Service Administration granted Trump the chance to transform the Old Post Office building (an 1899 architectural gem) into a 250-room luxury hotel. By Jaydine Sayer More... [310 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 13, 2012My First Hotel JobThis article encourages you to think back to your first job in our industry and see how far you've come from your early days in hospitality. By Larry Mogelonsky More... [820 views] Hotel Art Thief Is Prison-BoundA compulsive fine art fan is going to prison for at least a year after getting caught lifting hundreds of thousands of dollars in paintings from the lobby walls of the Carlyle and Chambers hotels in Manhattan. By Laura Italiano More... [279 views] The Top 6 Singles Hotels for Valentine's DayThe hotel price comparison trivago has selected the best hotels in the world to get away for a few days and forget all about Valentine's Day. More... [871 views] Luxury Long-Term Lodging Begins to Feel Like HomeWhen Tom Cataldi had to leave his hurricane-damaged house in Philadelphia in September, he was definitely not up for camping out, even temporarily. He wanted all the comforts of home in his new lodgings - and more, with no distractions. By Elizabeth Olson More... [270 views] Traveller Confidence Up in 2012 – How Will the Hotels Fare?Travelocity's annual "Traveler Confidence Report" reveals a majority of consumers, 53 percent, plan to travel more in 2012 than they did in 2011 despite a lack of confidence in the state of the economy. This is an 18 percentage point year-over-year increase from 2011. More... [610 views] Cruise Industry Agrees New Safety ProceduresThe global cruise industry today announced a new emergency drill policy requiring mandatory muster for embarking passengers prior to departure from port. More... [294 views] Mexico's Drug Wars Rage, Yet Hoteliers Keep Building More HotelsWhen we went to Mexico last month, more than a few people voiced concerns about safety. Again and again, some Americans say they are worried about visiting a country ‘where there is so much drug war violence.' By Max Hartshorne More... [301 views] Pod Hotels Coming To An Airport Near YouAnyone who's been stranded in an airport knows those awkward chairs at the gate aren't conducive to sleep-especially when you need it most. Enter the pod hotel, a small in-terminal hostelry comprised of mini-rooms where you can get some comfortable rest. By Alicia Barney More... [527 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 10, 2012Bringing Out The Best In Guests, Brings Out The Best In Frontline ColleaguesToday's Discussion Article: A key principle for finding personal fulfillment in the never-ending 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... [1180 views] Sex Toys, Nude Pools and More: Hot Hotel AmenitiesOn Valentine's Day, just about anything can get a person in the mood - but there are some things are a sure bet. That's why we perused our most romantic hotels to find come-hither amenities that could have even total strangers getting hot and heavy in no time. By Jane More... [1221 views] Book of the Month: Sour Grapes by David EvansExploring a vintage pastime, a new book gives an unfiltered glimpse into the volatile world of wine making. By David Evans More... [395 views] Twelve Most Effective Ways to Engage on TwitterEven though Facebook tends to dominate social web, Twitter is an important tool for social sharing and for building your own community. Twitter is an ideal tool to use to stay informed and to drive traffic to social properties. Most importantly, it helps you build relationships with like-minded people. By Ekaterina Walter More... [454 views] The World's Most Outrageous Airport LoungesInternational travel means arriving at the airport hours before take-off, which can often leave you at the gate with time to kill. Add in weather and other delays at major hubs and there are even more reasons to appreciate airlines with first-class lounges that go beyond the expected. Check out these chic and comfortable retreats that might just have you hoping for a layover. By Caroline Patek More... [758 views] ADA Defense and Compliance Lawyer Advisory: DOJ Clarifies Mandatory Pool Lift Requirement! (Uh-oh!)As everyone scrambles to meet the March 15, 2012 deadline for complying with the new ADA Standards, the mandatory pool lift requirement is getting a lot of attention. Here is the latest from my partner, Marty Orlick, head of our ADA defense and compliance team. By Jim Butler More... [396 views] Will Travellers Ever Find Independent Hotels on RoomKey.com?Will RoomKey.com - the new hotel giant-backed search engine designed to rival Expedia and other independent travel booking sites - offer more than hotels with names such as Hyatt, Hilton and Holiday Inn? By Barbara De Lollis More... [426 views] New York Newlyweds Seek Out the Most Romantic Places on a 500-Day HoneymoonA recently married New York couple, Anne and Mike Howard are making their dreams come true and taking off on a 500-day honeymoon to search out the world's most romantic places and most memorable adventures. More... [359 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 9, 2012Hotel SEO: Menace or Opportunity?Today's Discussion Article: Independent hotels are paranoid about visibility. The hospitality industry is extremely competitive: as within any market with oversupply, capturing market share means someone else is losing market share. More... [711 views] How Travel is Getting to Grips with New Mobile Technology and NFC in 2012According to a recent Google whitepaper, the number of mobile users researching travel via their mobile devices is expected to grow 51% in 2012. The case is equally compelling for mobile booking in APAC, with more than 15% of travellers projected to book travel products and service by 2013. By Marco Saio More... [457 views] Aloft Bangkok Demonstrates World-First Smartphone TechnologyGuests at the brand new Aloft Bangkok-Sukhumvit 11 have the world's newest in-room technology at their fingertips from the moment they check in - by way of a smartphone that controls everything from lighting to entertainment. More... [534 views] Top Five Functions Your CMS Should Be DoingHoteliers often ask me what the benefits are of incorporating a CMS (Content Management System) into a website redesign. For those unfamiliar, a CMS is an administrative section to the back-end of your website that lets you modify what appears on the front-end without having to know any coding languages. By Larry Mogelonsky More... [594 views] Why You Need to Re-evaluate Your Transparency ArchitectureTransparency is one of those terms thrown around in the social media world that is much easier said than done. When asked, of course we support being transparent and authentic. But when push comes to shove, we usually end up controlling information and releasing the minimum amount we can get away with, hoping to avoid risk. By Mathilde Grant More... [178 views] ADA Defense & Compliance Lawyer: New ADA Compliance Standards for Golf Courses. What Do They Mean to You?ADA defense and compliance lawyer with some tips for owners and operators of GOLF COURSES. Golf courses are one type of 'public accommodation' (along with hotels, restaurants, retail stores and the like) specifically targeted by the new ADA Standards that become effective March 15, 2012. By Jim Butler More... [441 views] The Hotel PoliceGoing undercover with the arbiter of greatness in hospitality. By Ann Abel More... [356 views] The Coolest Hotel in the World?Ever wanted to know what it's like to live like an Eskimo? Then this hotel made completely out of ice is the place to find out. By Leon Watson More... [534 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 8, 2012Hotel Operations Insight: The Lost Art and Science of Front Desk YieldingToday's Discussion Article: No matter whether I am working with client hotels or simply part of the traveling public, some hotels across the country have forgotten the fine art and science of yielding at the front desk. By Gavin Landry More... [1325 views] Hotel Industry Adjusts to Shifting Travel HabitsThe face of the business traveler has changed dramatically. It's a lot younger and there's a mad dash in the hotel industry to do more than just 'accommodate' them. By Krister Rollins More... [494 views] London Hotels Become BritishOnce upon a time, travellers wanted to feel at home wherever they went. Now that's changed completely. Travellers want to feel that they've arrived somewhere different - and wish to get the maximum out of that difference. By Timea More... [462 views] Hotel Jobs for Dissatisfied Graduates?Recent research suggests that a high number of graduates in the UK are unhappy with the amount of responsibility given to them in their first job. By Timea More... [801 views] Taking The Minimalist Road To SuccessMinimalism can be seen as a design movement, a philosophy, a way of life, a set of guidelines or a combination of all of those. There's no hard and fast definition of minimalism, but there is one common principle that's shared wherever it's defined: focus on the essential and eliminate the non-essential. By Annie Mueller More... [346 views] Gripes About Hotel RoomsEveryone loves to gripe about air travel. But what about hotels? By George Hobica More... [492 views] Home Chefs Invade Star Hotel KitchensHome-cooked food is entering 5-star hotel menus at the same time that 5-star gourmet dishes are entering home kitchens in a unique gastronomical agreement between homemakers and five-star chefs. By Anshul Dhamija & Reeba Zachariah More... [400 views] Hotel Workers Will Get Panic Alarm Buttons Under Proposed ContractNine months after a hotel housekeeper accused Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the French politician, of sexually assaulting her in his suite in Manhattan, hotels across the city have agreed to equip their employees with panic buttons that will summon help immediately. By Patrick McGeehan More... [334 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 7, 2012Pointless Panels and Tales of Time WastersToday's Discussion Article: Some employees, admittedly a small minority, are - now, how shall I tactfully put this? - yes...are complete and utter wasters. Anyone who has ever managed people will no doubt already be well aware of this. My question, and the focus of this article is how do these losers manage to sneak under the radar with such apparent ease and frequency? By Enda Larkin More... [572 views] Hotel Horror: Mirror, Mirror, Who's That In My Bathroom?What kind of sadist puts overhead fluorescent lights in a hotel bathroom to terrify the guests? By Ellen Creager More... [913 views] Why Your Hotel Needs Video MarketingSo how can you create a dynamic advertising campaign with a limited budget? Video. By Carol Meinhardt More... [468 views] Employee Engagement - The Doctor is IN...In the spirit of St. Valentine's Day, I want to give all of you an opportunity to spread the love. So, I want you to send me your questions about Employee Engagement. What do I mean by Employee Engagement? By Tommy Taylor More... [546 views] The Top 10 Ski Hotel Deals in EuropeThe hotel price comparison trivago.co.uk has compiled a list of ten hotels in European ski resorts destinations, where overnight prices start at 30 pounds per person. More... [537 views] Niche Marketing Increasingly Important for Hotels and ResortsNiche marketing is not a new catch phrase in the hospitality industry, particularly in the hotel industry subset. So how do examples like the Residence Inn Chicago Deerfield use niche marketing? By Jason Gallager More... [391 views] Hotel Lawyer on 2012: A Good Year to Buy a Hotel (and a bad year, if your hotel note is due)There was plenty of prognosticating going on by pundits at the ALIS conference in Los Angeles this week, as well, and I took a lot of notes. Here's what the experts think the hospitality world will look like in 2012. By Jim Butler More... [342 views] Is There a Science to Scoring the Best Hotel Rooms?You can put me in a (clean) shoebox-size room, but if there's even a glimpse of my beloved Chrysler building, the Eiffel Tower or the ocean (any ocean), I'm willing to pay extra. When it comes to hotel rooms, the definition of 'best' is in the mind of the key holder. Here's how to be sure that you're getting the best possible room to suit your needs. By Dan Jovic More... [464 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 6, 2012On the Move January 2012Global Staff Movements for January 2012 provided by Spectrum International. More... [1516 views] Tapping Into Your Team’s TalentHospitality business and leadership coach Caroline Cooper shares her thoughts on how to tap into people's natural potential. More... [825 views] New Revenue Stream for Hospitals – Partner with a SpaAlthough some may take offense, a Hospital is very similar to a hotel, other than their 'guests' may prefer not to be there. To remain competitive, many Medical Centers/Hospitals are accentuating their Customer Service orientation, upgrading their food service, and making their facilities more comfortable and welcoming. By John R. Hendrie More... [615 views] How to Make Your Mobile Marketing Succeed in 2012Of the 7 billion people on the planet, more than 2 billion are expected to own smartphones by 2015.* Without question, mobile marketing will soar over the next 12 months. More... [583 views] Sixteen Paris Hotels That Won't Break The BankRegardless of how many times I've been to Paris, I still go through an extensive research process for hotels each and every time. By Renee Blodgett More... [543 views] A room In The CloudLuxury hoteliers may trumpet tech-based amenities such as high-definition TVs or the ability to book a room and check in with a smartphone, but when it comes to the most advanced approach to providing wireless Internet service, the leader in that department might be good old Motel 6. By Danny King More... [478 views] Happiness Is a Hotel Cigar Evening for New Generation of Female SmokersAn unhealthy habit that whispers of closed doors and secret deals is enjoying an unlikely resurgence. Women smoke cigars now - at least, they do if you ask London's top-flight hotels. By Harriet Walker More... [267 views] From Scottish Night to Chocolate Delight: A Luxury Hotel Transforms ItselfWe were recently inspecting the conferencing facilities of the Rubens at the Palace luxury boutique hotel when we caught the hotel staff busy making preparations for a Scottish celebration to honour their corporate partners. By Timea More... [578 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 3, 2012Lead Me: Help Me to Become More Than I Realize I Can BeEveryday there are many employees who go to work, and are looking for one thing. No, the one thing I am referring to has nothing to do with compensation. The "one thing" is more intrinsic in nature. These employees are looking to be inspired. By Bryan K. Williams More... [1867 views] Could This Be the Best Hotel Site Ever Built?An interview with Robert Simon, director of web development for Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts. By Larry Mogelonsky, MBA, P. Eng. More... [2215 views] Planning for Search Marketing in 2012 as a Hotel MarketerToday's Discussion Article: With TripAdvisor becoming less dominant/ reliable, brands are beginning to regain some lost influence and the correct management of both mobile and mapping technology will be key to increasing any brand's online reputation, says James Harrower, search marketing manager, International at Hilton Worldwide. More... [950 views] Top 7 Ways to Get the Most Out of FacebookThe goal for most small businesses on Facebook is to build relationships with current customers and future prospects. But random daily posts, "likes" and comments often do not produce the desired results. By Barry Moltz More... [788 views] Ten of the Best Budget Hotels in TokyoTokyo has a good spread of hotels at great-value rates, from traditional ryokans to cheap and cheerful business hotels in the heart of Shinjuku, says Richard Smart. More... [410 views] London Boutique Hotels Round Up January 20122011 was an exciting year for London's boutique hotels and 2012 is shaping up to be no different. With the Olympics and the Queen's Jubilee taking place over the summer, hotels will be falling over themselves to pull in visitors with innovative special offers in the quest for a bumper year. By Timea More... [375 views] Wanderlust Magazine Announces 2012 Travel AwardsCountries recently wracked by earthquakes, tsunamis and political unrest were the winners in this year's travel awards, voted for by the readers of Wanderlust magazine, the bible for independently minded travelers. More... [278 views] If Hotel Walls Could Talk!Hotels.com reveals it all from what puts couples in the mood, and that ideal celebrity dates are George Clooney and Jennifer Aniston. More... [381 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 2, 2012Marketing that Works: Five Examples of ExcellenceWith the planning season approaching, the hunt for new strategic initiatives is in full swing; ways to better revenue and market position undoubtedly at the top of the list. Taking stock from a few of my clients, here are five tenets that have proven successful, and may be applicable to your own programs. By Larry Mogelonsky More... [1181 views] Generational Similarities - Cravings that Need to be FedToday's Discussion Article: It sometimes feels like we focus too much on what makes us different, rather than those shared, fundamental characteristics that unite us, particularly with respect to 'generational differences in the workplace.' By Tommy Taylor More... [368 views] Starwood Offers First-Of-Its-Kind 24 Hour Check-InStarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced new benefits that make its award winning loyalty program Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) the richest elite program in the industry. More... [1444 views] TripAdvisor Can No Longer Claim Genuine ReviewsThe wisdom of crowds? Well, maybe not. TripAdvisor became the world's largest travel website thanks to its vast body of user reviews - the promise that whatever hotel you picked, you could find out from your fellow travellers whether the views were quite as delightful as in the brochure, the bedsheets as crisply starched. Now, after a four-month investigation, the Advertising Standards Authority has ruled... By Robert Colvile More... [1394 views] Top 5 Biggest Hotels in LondonAs one of the world's most popular travel destinations, and of course the host of the upcoming 2012 Olympic Games, demand for hotel rooms in London is high. The city has over 100,000 hotel rooms encompassing everything from minimalist boutique chic to grandiose five star luxury. By Timea More... [817 views] Hotel Gets the Standard TreatmentD.A.P., a publishing company that produces art books and exhibition catalogs, last week threw a party at 'the Standard, East Village,' according to the invitation, a place that was known as the Cooper Square Hotel until October, when perma-tan hotelier Andre Balazs and property manager Ironstate Development Co. acquired the spot for $90 million. By Mike Vilensky More... [173 views] Which Countries are Topping Online Searches for Hotels?London, Of the 1.8 million searches made online for hotels in November 2011, London emerged as the most searched for location, according to the latest report, ‘Hotels Issue 10', from leading digital marketing agency, Greenlight. More... [640 views] My Sexy Valentine: Six Amazingly Romantic GetawaysHeart-shaped tubs and chocolate are so last year. This Valentine's Day spark romance -- and a little adventure -- with an amazing, and a little over-the-top romantic excursion. By Kimber Crandall More... [425 views] Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 1, 2012Why Google Analytics Should Be Outlawed in the Travel IndustryToday's Discussion Article: Over my 20-year career in the travel and Internet industry, I have come across hundreds of cases where a travel client has used Google Analytics (GA) to track their clicks from their online advertising and seen major discrepancies on the clicks and conversions. We should all agree as an industry to put this behind us and not use GA to track clicks and bookings. By Ryan Bifulco More... [928 views] Today’s Most Pressing Legal Issues for Hotel Owners and ManagersWhen one reads general business and industry publications, it sometimes appears that social media has grabbed the attention of many writers as the current trend and the topic needing additional coverage and insights. By Dr. John Hogan, CHE CHA CMHS More... [491 views] St. Louis Area Hotels Enlisted to Fight Sex TradeSt Louis, Over the past eight years, Kimberly Ritter has scoped out some of the poshest hotels around the country for potential meetings and conferences. By Nancy Cambria More... [314 views] Four Ways Small Businesses Can Build a Great CultureMost of the small business owners I know have never thought about their culture, or anything else that reminds them of working for the man. For some, the concept of an organizational culture sounds like something you have to have 1,000 cogs in the wheel to worry about, and they don't have time, anyhow. By Alexandra Levit More... [368 views] Cruising Falls Down the Ranks as a ‘Dream Holiday’A round-the-world cruise has come bottom in a list of ‘must-do' holidays. A recent survey by cruise website www.bonvoyage.co.uk asked 1,700 Britons to choose from a list of ten ‘dream' destinations or holiday types and identify which ones they would like to go on. More... [403 views] European Tourism in 2011 - Trends & Prospects (Q4/2011)The European Travel Commission (ETC) has just published its fourth quarterly report on European Tourism in 2011 - Trends & Prospects. More... [530 views] Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Chinese TouristsWith the U.S. lodging industry still feeling the effects of the recession, the country is missing out on a significant opportunity to increase jobs and GDP through international tourism, specifically, Chinese outbound tourism. By Erin Kim More... [447 views] Hotel Group Staff Urged to Write Positive Web ReviewsOne of the State's largest hotel chains planned a campaign involving "a bank" of people aimed at generating false positive reviews on the influential TripAdvisor website. By Conor Pope More... [1029 views] Hotel News in BriefHospitality industry news in brief.............................. More... [625 views] 
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ehotelier Hospitality News Archives: February 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 29, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 28, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 27, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 24, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 23, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 22, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 21, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 20, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 17, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 16, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 15, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 14, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 13, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 10, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 9, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 8, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 7, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 6, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 3, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 2, 2012Global Hospitality Newsletter: February 1, 2012
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