hotels Archives – Page 4 of 15

Orlando attractions and hotels that are scheduled to open in 2018

December 4, 2017

The following is a press release from Visit Orlando:

A big year awaits travelers to Orlando, Theme Park Capital of the World®. Thrilling new attractions will launch guests further and faster than ever, new resorts will feature additions like future-forward “smart rooms” and rooftop lounges for firework-watching, and unique new dining experiences will arrive, ranging from a Master Sommelier’s wine bar to a 100 percent all-vegan deli.

“Every Orlando vacation is unique, with so many attractions and activities for visitors to mix and match, but 2018 will be an exceptional year for experiences that really stand out,” said George Aguel, President and CEO for Visit Orlando. “A great vacation lets you escape from the everyday and experience something new, and there is no shortage of that this coming year, ranging from being immersed in a high-speed car chase with the Fast & Furious to plunging down the world’s tallest river rapid drop.”

Visitors can get continuous updates on new attractions as well as planning tips, tickets and discounts at VisitOrlando.com, the official visitor information source for the destination.

NEW THRILLS

Toy Story Land (Rendering courtesy of Disney)

- Disney’s Hollywood Studios will open Toy Story Land in summer 2018, featuring two new themed attractions, the “Slinky Dog Dash” roller coaster and “Alien Swirling Saucers.”

Fast & Furious – Supercharged (Rendering courtesy of Universal Orlando)

- Fast & Furious – Supercharged at Universal Studios Florida will take guests on a high-octane adventure into the world of underground racing, right alongside stars from the Fast & Furious films.

- A new nighttime show is coming to Universal Studios Florida, replacing Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular-100 Years of Movie Memories. This new lagoon show will feature animated characters, a new storyline, lighting and special effects.

Infinity Falls (Rending courtesy of SeaWorld Orlando)

- Infinity Falls, a new rainforest river rapids ride, is coming to SeaWorld Orlando in summer 2018, featuring the world’s tallest river rapid drop.

Ray Rush at Aquatica (Rendering courtesy of SeaWorld Orlando)

- Ray Rush will provide three new ways to slide, splash and soar at Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark. With wild water jets, a colossal water sphere and swoops into giant manta wings, the raft ride is scheduled to debut in spring 2018.

The Great LEGO Race (Rendering courtest of LEGOLAND Florida Resort)

- The Great Lego Race VR Coaster will debut as the first virtual reality roller coaster designed for children. It will open in place of the Project X roller coaster at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, re-imagined with a new story plus special effects.

LEGO NINJAGO: Master of the 4th Dimension (Image courtesy of LEGOLAND)

- LEGO NINJAGO – Master of the 4th Dimension will debut Jan. 12, 2018, at the LEGO Showplace Theater at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. The new short film combines 3D computer animation with 4D real-world effects, for an amazing new ninja adventure.

Nona Adventure Park will be a new water-sports park featuring an inflatable, floating obstacle course, wakeboarders pulled along by cables and a 60-foot climbing tower with a ropes course. The park is scheduled to open in summer 2018 in the Lake Nona area of Orlando.

NEW HOTELS

Universal’s Aventura Hotel (Rendering courtesy of Universal’s Aventura Hotel)

- The Delaney Hotel, a 54-room boutique hotel in the Sodo district of downtown Orlando, will offer unique high-tech conveniences for guests such as remote check-in, digital tablet-based concierge services in every room, smart phone room keys and smart TVs. It is expected to open in March 2018.

- Universal’s Aventura Hotel, a new value property and the sixth onsite hotel at Universal Orlando Resort, will feature a 16-story gleaming glass tower with 600 guest rooms, including 13 kids’ suites, and the first-ever rooftop bar and grill on Universal property. It is expected to open in August 2018.

- Margaritaville Resort Orlando, a new waterfront destination resort, will feature 175 rooms, 1,000 Margaritaville-themed vacation homes and 300 timeshare units. A new dining and entertainment district is also planned, along with a 12-acre water park, a wellness center, and more. It is expected to open in 2018.

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, the largest of the six convention hotels at Walt Disney World Resort, is expanding in 2018 with a new 15-story tower of 500 additional rooms, a new rooftop restaurant and lounge atop the tower with panoramic views of nighttime fireworks and new meeting space.

DINING OPTIONS

- Disney Springs will add even more new dining experiences in 2018 including:

The Edison (Rendering courtesy of Disney)

- - The Edison, themed around a 1920s-era electric company with live entertainment, classic American food and craft cocktails

- - Jaleo, a Spanish Tapas concept by world-renowned Chef Jose Andres

- - Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, a new location in Town Center capturing the essence of laid-back California dining

Wine Bar George (Rendering courtesy of Disney)

- - Wine Bar George, the only Master Sommelier-led wine bar in Florida

- - Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, offering Sicilian cuisine and set in a 1930s abandoned airline terminal

- - Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar, serving Prohibition-era cocktails along with a menu of Roman dishes, all inspired by the true Florida history of rum-running

- JINYA Ramen Bar, a modern Japanese restaurant featuring authentic ramen along with a variety of tapas dishes, is expected to open in 2018 in the Thornton Park neighborhood of downtown Orlando.

Heirloom Deli will open as an all-vegan restaurant in spring of 2018, where everything from drinks to bakery items will be 100 percent plant-based.

The Orlando Destination
Home to seven of the world’s top theme parks, Orlando is the No. 1 family vacation destination, Theme Park Capital of the World®, and most visited destination in the United States. An unparalleled mix of unique experiences create cherished memories for visitors, including legendary theme parks from Disney, Universal and SeaWorld, an array of world-class water parks, entertainment venues, an award-winning food scene, shopping, sports and nightlife. And, with 450 hotels, Orlando offers more lodging options than nearly any other destination in the world, from expansive resorts to uniquely themed hotels.

About Visit Orlando
Visit Orlando is the official tourism association for the most visited destination in the United States and, together with its 1,200 member organizations, represents the area’s leading industry. Visit Orlando is responsible for branding, selling and marketing the Orlando destination worldwide, and serves as the official visitor information source.

Wyndham’s Trademark Hotel Collection spans U.S. with six new additions

October 31, 2017

The Bricks, A Trademark Collection Hotel (Rendering courtesy of Wyndham Hotel Group)

The following is a press release from Wyndham Hotel Group:

Bolstering its portfolio of distinctive destinations across the U.S., hospitality powerhouse Wyndham Hotel Group is raising its Trademark Hotel Collection flag at six independent hotels in the U.S., introducing the soft brand to travelers in Southern California, upstate New York, Florida and North Dakota. With these newest additions, Trademark’s global footprint expands to nearly 60 locations across four countries.

Launched earlier this year, Trademark is a collection of upper-midscale-and-above hotels with fiercely independent spirit and individuality. It’s the first soft brand geared to independent hoteliers with landmark three- and four-star hotels designed for everyday travelers seeking unique accommodations.

“Independent hotel entrepreneurs are making their mark, over-delivering on our offer to join forces with the world’s largest hotel company, capitalizing on Wyndham’s size and scale while preserving their hard-earned hotel individuality and character,” said Chip Ohlsson, executive vice president and Chief Development Officer, North America. “Our newest additions here in the U.S. will deliver sought-after boutique experiences in growing markets at price points everyday travelers can afford – with Trademark, both owners and guests can really have it all.”

A New Tide of Trademarks

Trademark is widening its global footprint, adding more than 50 upper-midscale hotels in Europe and the U.S. in the past four months, totaling more than 9,000 guestrooms. Joining award-winning hotels like The INFINITY Hotel & Conference Center in Munich, Germany and the HYPERION Hotel Basel in Basel, Switzerland, notable additions in the U.S. announced today include:

· The Bricks, A Trademark Collection Hotel, Los Angeles:
Securing more than 125,000 square feet of corner real estate in downtown Los Angeles, a new-construction hotel, The Bricks, A Trademark Collection Hotel will be two blocks from the vibrant STAPLES Center sports arena and adjacent L.A. Live entertainment complex. Owned by John Rhee, the space is undergoing a multi-million dollar readaptation from an office building to a six-storied hotel featuring a dramatically-up-lit vertical exterior and an equally striking interior. Its approximately 200 contemporarily-designed guestrooms will highlight crisp and clean angles, structured bedding and seating, bulbous lighting and a signature red-brick accent wall. Adding to the hotel’s flair will be a street-level restaurant, a pool, a fitness center, 10,000 square feet of meeting space and a whimsical rooftop bar lounge adorned in lush greens and flowers overlooking the City of Angels.

· Hotel at the Lafayette, A Trademark Collection Hotel, Buffalo, N.Y.:
Built in 1904 and designed by America’s first female architect Louise Blanchard Bethune, this landmark French Renaissance-style hotel, owned by Earl Ketry and entity principal Bill Casale, features 57 Pan-American-themed suites with magnificent velvet-dressed chairs, oversized mirrors, wood floors and furnishings and premier amenities. Earning TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award distinction for its consistently great reviews, the hotel is a crowd-favorite in the Buffalo area for its quality accommodations, historical charm and local conveniences. Guests can grab house brews at the hotel’s on-site Lafayette Brewing Company restaurant and bar adorned with mosaic-tiled backdrops of French art or sip espressos at its Public Espresso coffee shop.

· Lofts on Pearl, A Trademark Collection Hotel, Buffalo, New York:
Also owned by Earl Ketry and entity principal Bill Casale, and sister hotel to the Hotel at the Lafayette, Lofts on Pearl originated as a belt and hose factory in the 1800s. Now transformed into a beautifully-restored boutique-style hotel from the historic Richardson Romanesque J.A. Webb building, the 31-room brick-faced Lofts on Pearl is located in downtown Buffalo’s Brewery District and endears itself to guests with its spacious accommodations and exemplary service. Securing excellent 4.5/5 TripAdvisor reviews as well as TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence honors, the hotel’s one- and two-bedroom suites feature quaint fireplaces, full kitchens and living rooms. Guests enjoy easy access to sports, entertainment, shopping and dining.

· Safety Harbor Resort & Spa, A Trademark Collection Hotel, Safety Harbor, Fla.:
Nestled along Tampa Bay just minutes from downtown Tampa, this 172-room waterfront hotel is uniquely known for its powerful Espiritu Santo Springs healing waters. The historic landmark, founded in 1925, boasts a 50,000-square-foot sanctuary spa – Florida’s only natural mineral springs resort spa – along with a tranquility garden and a fitness center. Owned by William Touloumis and ranked number one in its market, additional hotel offerings include four on-site restaurants, 30,000 square feet of meeting space and a 65-seat amphitheater.

Azure Hotel & Suites Ontario Airport/Convention Center, A Trademark Collection Hotel (Photo courtesy of Wyndham Hotel Group)

· Azure Hotel & Suites Ontario Airport/Convention Center, A Trademark Collection Hotel, Ontario, Cali .:
Opening November 6, this 167-room hotel and TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence winner is charming at first-look with two eloquently-appointed and beautifully-etched steel elephants greeting guests at arrival. The 4.5/5 TripAdvisor-rated hotel, owned by 1945 Hold Suites LLC, offers a warm and friendly California ambiance making guests feel right at home featuring deluxe suites, a stunning living-room style lobby, regionally-inspired dining and a marble fireplace. Growing tourism to the area, including increased inbound flights at Ontario Airport over the last five years and a planned 2018 airport expansion, combined with the hotel’s close proximity to popular tourists spots like Disneyland, make this an opportune growth market.

· Home Place Lodge & Suites, A Trademark Collection Hotel, Williston, N.D.:
Set in the heart of Williston, N.D. and close to major energy and oil companies, this full-service hotel is owned by MMC Ventures LLC and features 109 one- and two-bedroom suites with furnished kitchens and kitchenettes, premier amenities and a Grand Buffet restaurant offering barbeque and Asian cuisines.

Generating $15 billion in the U.S. in 2016 alone, demand for soft-branded hotels has grown at a rate of nearly 20 percent in the last several years, but has been focused on luxury and upscale hoteliers.

“Soft branding is a smart option for today’s hoteliers competing in the under-tapped upper-midscale tier accounting for 18 percent of rooms in the U.S,” added Greg Giordano, vice president, Brand Operations, The Trademark Hotel Collection. “Backed by the Trademark name, we’re amplifying the booking strength of that landmark hotel in your town the locals know by name and visitors eye up for its charm, elevating their everyday availability for even more guests.”

Trademark Collection Hotels participate in Wyndham Rewards®, the simple-to-use, revolutionary loyalty program from Wyndham Hotel Group with a growing member base of more than 53 million travelers. Named a best hotel rewards program for the past three consecutive years by U.S. News and World Report, Wyndham Rewards is the award-winning loyalty program offering members a generous points earning structure along with a flat, free night redemption rate—the first of its kind for a major rewards program. To learn more or to join for free, guests should visit www.wyndhamrewards.com

Hotel EMC2 opens for business in Chicago

July 25, 2017

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

Some might call it genius; all will call it “exactly like nothing else.” Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott International, together with SMASHotels, an award-winning hospitality management company, announced the official opening of Hotel EMC2 in downtown Chicago. Celebrating the convergence of art and science through its design, cuisine and guest experience, Hotel EMC2 joins the diverse and dynamic portfolio of more than 100 Autograph Collection Hotels around the world that are independent, one-of-a-kind and champion values of vision, design and craft.

“Hotel EMC2 is the perfect addition to Autograph Collection Hotels with its complex, yet enriching concept and complementary design elements,” said Brian Povinelli, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, Autograph Collection Hotels. “Our hotels and resorts are known for providing standout guest experiences that are Exactly Like Nothing Else, and we believe that Hotel EMC2 will exceed this promise, attracting global travelers and Chicago notables alike.”

Driven by the vision and passion of local real estate developer, leader and disruptor Scott Greenberg, President and CEO of SMASHotels, as well as General Manager Christine Wechter, the hotel’s interiors are designed by the award-winning Rockwell Group and architecture by KOO. Art and science are thoughtfully woven throughout every nook of the 21-story, 195-room hotel beginning with a typographic design that greets guests upon arrival and features the commanding words of legendary Renaissance man Leonardo da Vinci: “Study the science of art. Study the art of science. Develop your senses – learn how to see. Realize that everything connects to everything else.” Da Vinci’s vision sets the stage for the experience to follow, guiding the design of the hotel: from the captivating pieces of artwork commissioned specifically for the hotel, to the well-appointed guestrooms subtly influenced by 1920s laboratories with rose gold fixtures, luxurious furnishings and playful gramophones that project music from any mobile device.

The Albert at Hotel EMC2, an Autograph Collection Hotel (Photo by Michael Kleinberg)

The hotel’s 120-seat contemporary American restaurant, the Albert (a nod to the extraordinary scientist), presents seasonal, globally inspired dishes from acclaimed Executive Chef Brandon Brumback. The dynamic opening menu has been meticulously created to celebrate the fresh flavors and aromas of summer. Unlike any culinary experience in the city, the restaurant offers the warmth of a 1930s institute of higher learning, where professors swirled a scotch and talked about the mysteries of the universe. The Albert also offers an intimate 20-seat open kitchen where diners are invited behind-the-scenes to witness Brumback’s culinary canvas, firsthand, while marveling in the commissioned artwork from West Coast surrealist painter, Paul Bond, and local artist, Jonathan Plotkin. At the center of the restaurant, a glass chandelier evokes a scientific experiment and pours house-made infused liquors developed by Director of Food and Beverage Rebecca Royster.

Creative expression also extends to nearly 2,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. Honoring Emmy Noether, one of the greatest math minds of all time, and the principle of symmetry, which underlies the convergence of art and science, the two multi-functional meeting and event spaces boast blackboard-style artwork installations by Dr. Eugenia Cheng (a British mathematician, musician, author, artist and Scientist in Residence at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago).

“I have always been fascinated by art and science, and I’m truly ecstatic to bring a hotel experience like this – geared toward both left- and right-brained guests – to Chicago,” said Scott Greenberg, President and CEO, SMASHotels. “At the core of our hotel is the idea of inspiration; we want to educate and ignite imagination and innovation at every turn, challenging guests to expand their understanding of how everything is connected. Through our partnership with Project SYNCERE, we are able to extend this passion even further.”

A shining example of the brand’s value of having a role in the community, Hotel EMC2 and Autograph Collection Hotels have committed to support the youth STEM programs of Chicago-based Project SYNCERE (Supporting Youth’s Needs with Core Engineering Research Experiments), an organization that combines art and science to create transformational experiences for youth within underserved Chicago communities. With the support of Autograph Collection Hotels and Hotel EMC2, Project SYNCERE will jump start the career exploration of 20 high school students by providing hands-on, real life engineering experience through its E-CADEMY program. The hotel will also collaborate with the organization on additional initiatives and will remain committed to the partnership beyond opening.

Hotel EMC2 is located at 228 E. Ontario Street. Room rates start at $249.00. For details on reservations, please visit www.hotelemc2.com or call 884-205-3939. For further information about Hotel EMC2, follow @HotelEMC2 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For more information about Autograph Collection Hotels, please visit: www.autographhotels.com.

Courtyard Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port unveils $1.6 million renovation

July 24, 2017

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

A wave of change has arrived at Courtyard Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port. Guests can now experience reimagined accommodations and even greater service with the arrival of a new general manager.

Transforming comfortable visits into unforgettable getaways, the Dania Beach hotel has just finished a $1.6 million room renovation. Guests will feel at ease the moment they arrive and see the calming blue and gray tones in new carpet and wall coverings. The addition of beach scene artwork, taken by a local photographer, sets the tone for a relaxing retreat. New drapes, ergonomic desk chairs and 43-inch LG TVs were also part of the makeover.

“We are beyond thrilled to offer an enhanced experience for our guests,” said Dace Stewart, the new General Manager of the hotel. “Our renovated rooms capture the spirit of the area while providing a tranquil getaway for professionals and vacationers. Fresh from the airport or cruise terminal, our guests will appreciate a portly stay for a day, week or extended visit.”

Stewart began his long-lasting journey with Marriott 13 years ago as a front desk supervisor at Charlotte Marriott City Center in North Carolina. He then joined the JW Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort in Florida, rising to the level of senior assistant director of finance. In 2015, he was named director of finance at Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay. The recently appointed general manager at the Dania Beach, Florida hotel hopes to build upon his team’s impeccable service in the coming months.

When Stewart is not working, he loves to travel, work up a sweat at a heart-pumping spin or boot camp class and do volunteer work. He said he is looking forward to exploring his new hometown that offers so many things to do and see not only for his family but for his hotel guests.

The soft white sand on Dania Beach is among the many popular attractions in the area. The beach’s pier is an ideal location to catch a breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the ocean and is also known as a fishing hotspot. With the hotel being just 2 miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and close to Port Everglades, visitors can fly or cruise in for a quick getaway or extended vacation and head to Las Olas Boulevard to explore the unique boutiques, shops, restaurants and art galleries that have made the thoroughfare a true destination. Seminole Hard Rock casino and The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale also are nearby.

Cachet Boutique NYC to open in September 2017

July 20, 2017

The following is a press release from Cachet Hospitality Group:

Cachet Hospitality Group, the Asia-Pacific based hotel management company opens its inaugural U.S. hotel, Cachet Boutique NYC, in Midtown Manhattan in September 2017. The Cachet brand combines its design-centric aesthetic and East meets West hospitality, and infuses it with New York City flair to bring a unique food and entertainment experience to Manhattan. Cachet Boutique NYC will feature 105 rooms and villas, a Playboy Club NYC and two restaurants, EDEN and the Bellbrook.

“Cachet Boutique NYC will transport guests from the moment they walk through our glass doors into an oasis filled with the chicest rooms, seasonal food and beverage program and the best entertainment in New York,” said Nicole Levinson, Senior Vice President of Brand Marketing and Partnerships. “The confluence of placing east and west design, art, and food alongside one another will be a Cachet brand staple and will distinguish the property in the competitive boutique hotel space.”

Developed in partnership with Merchants Hospitality Group and designed by Cachet’s Bangkok-based design team led by Domenic Sicoli and Pauline Choo, in collaboration with NYC’s fashion designer Jay Godfrey, the property will feature robust programming that sets it apart from the crowded New York hotel offerings.

Cachet Boutique NYC has three discreet outdoor gardens, providing a unique urban oasis for guests to flow from the intimacy of their rooms to a spacious communal area. From outside yoga classes to after-work champagne tastings, these shared spaces will facilitate a variety of social gatherings and wellness experiences. Standard amenities include on-demand spa services, personalized meditation sessions by and in-room alternative wellness treatments.

At Cachet Boutique NYC, unexpected cultural and artistic collaborations will reinforce the sleek, contemporary ambiance. Longtime fashion-world darling Jay Kos will curate a dynamic retail experience to complement the hotel’s high-end design and décor. In addition, the comprehensive hotel arts program will play a central role in highlighting the brands design-centric aesthetic, showcasing the best emerging modern artists from Asia and the U.S.

The guest experience at Cachet Boutique NYC is taken to the next level with a proprietary technology platform that will bring together bookings, reservations, CRM and social media. Cachet’s platform is a luxury lifestyle community featuring a search and booking engine for boutique and lifestyle hotels and high-end residences worldwide. The platform’s loyalty program also allows guests of Cachet Boutique NYC to enjoy interactive mobility, exclusive member rates, and personalized food and beverage offerings.

Located just steps from the action and vibrancy of Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen and the soon to be opened Hudson Yards, Cachet Boutique NYC offers a creative cultural mix of arts, design, food, entertainment, and retail, that will be a key influence and driver in the resurgence of this Manhattan West district.

EDEN Restaurant
Cachet Boutique NYC’s new signature restaurant and bar, EDEN, will draw inspiration from the wellness movement, serving all natural, homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner. EDEN has been entrusted to restaurateur-extraordinaire David Laris, the vision behind such notable eateries as Porterhouse and Le Sheng. EDEN will feature an extensive wine list, an array of globally inspired cocktails and world class dishes created by renowned Chef David Laris. The restaurant’s one-of-a-kind garden oasis will be the ideal location for a chic starlit dinner, happy hour hangout, or group soirée.

Cachet Boutique NYC Courtyards:
Guests can sip on a cocktail or have a bite to eat in the hotel’s indoor-outdoor dining experience. The space boasts a mesmerizing glowing fire pit, attentive service, refined aesthetics, and 2,000 square feet of outdoor space, providing guests with a unique al fresco atmosphere. Guests can also take advantage of the property’s outdoor wellness and entertainment area. Featuring an array of spa services, it will serve as an ideal location for wellness-oriented, social day gatherings.

Rates will start from $329 per night. To make a reservation, guests may visit www.CachetBoutiqueNYC.com or call 212.947.2999.

Fairfield by Marriott Nanning Nanhu Park opens for business

July 11, 2017

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

Marriott International Inc. announced the debut of the Fairfield by Marriott brand in Greater China with the opening of Fairfield by Marriott Nanning Nanhu Park.

Marriott International and Dossen International Group signed an exclusive development agreement to bring the Fairfield by Marriott brand to mainland China in September 2016. The partnership targets aggressive growth in different cities across China in the next five years. The introduction of the Fairfield brand is a significant milestone in Marriott International’s expansion in the Select Serve hotel segment in China, and is part of the company’s strategic plan to expand rapidly across a broad spectrum of price tiers and destinations across the country.

“We are extremely excited about the launch of the Fairfield by Marriott brand in China because it gives travelers even more choice when traveling throughout China,” said Mike Fulkerson, Vice President, Brand & Marketing, Asia Pacific. “This partnership gives us the ability to extend into the fast growing second- and third-tier cities throughout China, further building Marriott International’s portfolio in China.”

Fairfield is a global leader in the Select Serve hotel segment with nearly 850 hotels in the United States, Canada, Mexico and India in its rapidly growing portfolio. Fairfield by Marriott has achieved rapid brand expansion as well as market penetration through its trusted business model by franchising to reliable business partners globally, and particularly in China through its partnership with Dossen International Group.

“We are excited about our partnership with Marriott International. It’s a tremendous milestone, and with our wealth of connections and hotel expertise, we aim to introduce this trusted brand to Chinese travelers,” said Robinhood Qi, CEO Guangzhou Man Tung Hotel Management Co., Ltd.

Fairfield offers value-minded travelers who seek a seamless stress-free stay, allowing them to maintain balance in their routine and stay productive while on the road, all with the quality and consistency and service experience of an international brand. Fairfield’s Chinese name (wàn fēng) was inspired by the brand’s spirit of simplicity, dependability and comfort.

Fairfield by Marriott Nanning Nanhu Park features open spaces that are flexible for work and entertainment such as seamlessly designed lobby. Relaxation and simplicity were fundamental to the design of the hotel’s 209 guestrooms – each fitted with modern décor set in a palette of neutral hues and accented with natural wooden furnishings.

Guests wake up to complimentary breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant with its abundant selection of healthy Western and Chinese specialties, and can purchase snacks and refreshments from a 24/7 market conveniently found in the lobby for easy meals on-the-go. What’s more, they don’t need to miss a beat of their workout routine with a 24/7 Fitness Centre onsite.

Located at Binhu Road in the beautiful new Qingxiu District of Nanning City, the hotel is a short 10-minute walk from Wanda business district and Xianbin Lake park. It’s also within convenient access to the Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center by public transportation, as well as an easy car ride to Nanning East Railway Station and 45 minutes by car to Nanning Wuwei International Airport. Its central business location will make it ideal for guests traveling for business or for pleasure.

Courtyard Dulles Town Center completes multimillion-dollar renovation

July 10, 2017

The following is a press release from Courtyard Dulles Town Center:

Courtyard Dulles Town Center entices modern vacationers and business travelers to stay productive and rejuvenated in newly renovated guest rooms and suites designed to meet their needs.

While exploring the attractions of Sterling, Virginia or conducting business in the local area, travelers will experience hospitality at its finest when they step into the reinvented accommodations at one of the premier hotels in the area. The multimillion-dollar renovation emphasizes comfort and convenience with innovative updates.

Boasting new cotton-rich linens with fluffier pillows, the Sterling hotel seeks to inspire a good night’s rest before early morning meetings with potential clients or hours of shopping at nearby Dulles Town Center mall. Reimagined rooms now come equipped with Lounge Around™ sofas, perfect for kicking back and exploring the variety of premium cable and movie options available on the new flat-screen 40-inch and 49-inch LED TVs.

Upholstery, carpet and lamp shades boast a soothing grey color scheme that, along with the splashes of vibrant turquoise provided by the furnishings, create a tranquil environment instilling a sense of peace in guests during even the busiest of times. The unique rooms and suites now boast impressive granite-brimmed bathrooms to make getting ready in the morning enjoyable.

“We changed our rooms to cater to the modern traveler,” said General Manager Dave Kowalewski. “We wanted to create a space that’s perfect for every kind of trip, from romantic weekend getaways to extended business travels. Whatever it is – unwinding after an eventful day, sending emails and making phone calls – our rooms are well-equipped to help you do it.”

Guests are also encouraged to check out the Dulles hotel’s newly renovated fitness center. With an array of cardio equipment and free weights, travelers looking to work on their strength and conditioning goals during their time on the go can do so easier than ever.

Visitors will be soaring into satisfaction at the hotel near Washington Dulles International Airport, accessible by a short, complimentary shuttle ride. Guests at the Sterling hotel will be greeted by first-class services as well as convenient amenities. With on-site dining, a fitness center, business center and indoor pool, guests are well-equipped to maintain their daily routines at their home away from home.

About Courtyard Dulles Town Center
Courtyard Dulles Town Center at 45500 Majestic Drive in Dulles, VA is near 1757 Golf Club, Dulles Town Center Mall and Sterling, Virginia. The hotel features 4 floors with 149 guest rooms, 8 suites, 2 meeting rooms with 650 square feet of flexible event space, on-site dining, complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness center, free airport shuttle service and an indoor pool. For information, visit www.marriott.com/IADTC or call 1-571-434-6400.

Sign up now for Marriott Rewards and get on the fast track to earn points for free hotel stays, room upgrades, flights, credit card purchases and deals with Marriott partners.

Hard Rock International announces details of Hard Rock Entertainment World

July 10, 2017

Hard Rock International logo

The following is a press release from Hard Rock International:

Hard Rock International announces details of its Hard Rock Entertainment World proposal, which is slated to be one of the largest resort destinations in Europe. The project, located in Vila-seca and Salou (Tarragona), Spain, will consist of a unique combination of hotels and convention areas, with world-class entertainment, dining and shopping. This project is defined through a complete Zoning Plan already approved by the Catalan Government, with a maximum capacity of 745.000 sq. meters for all the different uses and an estimated global investment of €2,000 million, including the cost of the land and infrastructures needed, to be developed by phases in the next years.

Phase 1 will be headlined by the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tarragona integrated resort. The Hard Rock integrated resort will also include a collaboration with PortAventura on the development of a family-oriented hotel of up to 500 rooms, and Value Retail on a luxury tourism shopping destination of approximately 10,000 square meters, featuring more than 75 shops. Hard Rock Entertainment World will bring thousands of new jobs and significant foreign direct investments. Phase one minimum investment is expected to exceed €600 million and is estimated to create more than 11,500 direct and indirect construction and ongoing jobs and an economic impact to the region of more than €1.3 billion.

“We’re honored to work with the Catalan government on the creation of Hard Rock Entertainment World and look forward to bringing first-class entertainment and hospitality experiences to the region,” said Jim Allen, chairman and CEO of Hard Rock International.

The iconic guitar shaped Hard Rock Hotel will be a focal point of the Hard Rock Entertainment World and will offer 600 rooms within approximately 100,000 square meters. Among the largest in Europe, the casino destination will boast 1,200 slot machines and 100 table games. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tarragona will also provide guests with a 6,000 square meter pool and pool deck.

True to the Hard Rock brand, the entertainment destination will offer concert capacity in excess of 15,000 people and a Hard Rock Live performance venue that will host regional and international musical acts and shows, a world famous Hard Rock Cafe, and an accompanying Rock Shop, featuring authentic Hard Rock merchandise.

PortAventura and Value Retail have always supported the possible development of a complementary integrated resort on the land adjacent to PortAventura. The companies’ strong belief is that this project will be very good for tourism and the creation of jobs and will bring economic development to this important region of Catalonia.

Hard Rock International looks forward to working with the Catalan government in their process to bring another world class entertainment destination to the region.

W Shanghai – The Bund opens for business

July 6, 2017

The WET Deck at W Shanghai - The Bund. — The WET Deck at W Shanghai – The Bund. (Photo courtesy of Marriott International)

The following is a press release from W Hotels Worldwide

W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International, today unveiled W Shanghai – The Bund, located in the heart of one of the world’s most energetic cities. With limitless views overlooking the Huangpu River, W Shanghai will set the scene on the North Bund. Owned by Sinar Mas Group, the hotel features a blend of bold design and decadent style which combines to create a captivating contrast of Shanghai’s past and its avant-garde present.

“Shanghai is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, and its engaging nightlife, spirited fashion scene and passion for what’s new/next makes it an ideal destination for the W brand,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “Our hotels across the world are incredibly unique- each reinterpreting its destination through design that is both hyper-local and yet, clearly W. The electrifying design of W Shanghai – The Bund is no exception, solidifying its position as a global flagship for W that is sure to attract both guests and savvy locals alike.”

Designed by the acclaimed G.A Design, the hotel showcases an exciting combination of historic and modern influences, such as Hai Pai – the art of combining the old and the new, East and West. This is evident in both the hotel’s location, perfectly positioned between the Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River, as well as the surrounding locale, where Art Deco buildings sit alongside opulent Chinese mansions. W Shanghai – The Bund draws upon colonial glamour and futuristic motifs, with nearly all guestrooms featuring views of the Huangpu River due to the uniquely curved frame of the building’s edifice.

“Over the past few years we have seen incredible growth worldwide across our brands, with the China market becoming increasingly important for Marriott International,” said Stephen Ho, Chief Executive Officer, Greater China, Marriott International. “The opening of the W Shanghai – The Bund underscores the ambitious expansion of Marriott International’s Luxury Brands in Greater China.”

An Electric Welcome
Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by neon light installations throughout the hotel’s Living Room (the W brand’s take on the staid hotel lobby). For centuries, Shanghai-locals have honored the Lilong tradition, in which wet laundry is hung on lines to dry at varying heights down narrow laneways. This installation was designed as a modern reinterpretation of this classic scene. The Welcome Desk (reception area) features a kaleidoscopic fixture, mirroring the constant flow of guests through the area. The ‘Melting Qipao’ pattern, a representation of Shanghai as a melting pot of cultures, can be seen on the walls of the WC (restroom).

A Fantastic Suite at W Shanghai – The Bund. (Photo courtesy of Marriott International)

W Shanghai – The Bund features 374 stylish guestrooms and suites, each appointed with the signature W bed adorned with a cheeky pillow in the shape of Shanghai’s famous Xiaolongbao (soup) dumpling and chopsticks. Thirty-five of the rooms are suites, including the Cloud on the Bund, which includes highlights such as a LED wall and a hanging bed. The duplex Extreme WOW Suite (the brand’s take on the presidential suite) boasts more than 4,000 square feet of living space, along with a hanging neon installation in the shape of lips blowing out dragon smoke. In addition to the epic views of the Huangpu River and iconic Pudong skyline, all rooms also feature switchable privacy glass and Nespresso Coffee machines.

Rise and Dine
W Shanghai – The Bund offers five intriguing places to socialize and dine. The Kitchen Table, with its interactive open kitchen, is inspired by a modern New York bistro and celebrates the legacy of Shanghai’s flourishing trade. YEN showcases the next evolution of Cantonese dining where traditional dishes are reinterpreted. Pre-dinner cocktails at LIQUID AT YEN, a hidden speakeasy, is the perfect evening prelude to transport guests to the glamorous golden years of Shanghai’s 1920s cocktail scene featuring a handcrafted selection of concoctions mastered by the on-site “Cocktail Professor”. The playfully elegant WOOBAR transforms from a daytime lounge into a vibrant evening cocktail bar. And finally, WET (the hotel’s pool) and WET BAR offer incredible sweeping views of the electric Shanghai skyline.

“We are infusing so much energy into this city with W Shanghai – The Bund,” said Christian Humbert, General Manager, W Shanghai – The Bund. “We are bringing guests closer to the music, design, fashion and Fuel (the brand’s take on fitness) scenes in Shanghai while providing our signature Whatever/Whenever service, delivering whatever guests want, whenever they want it, in this incredible city.”

Amped Up Meetings + Innovative Spa Treatments
Mixing work with play, guests will be captivated by nearly 6,000 square meters of meeting and events space. At more than 2,000 square meters, the Great Room is the largest hotel event space in Western Shanghai, and boasts 6.2-meter ceilings in a setting inspired by an opulent expression of the Golden Age. The entrance to the Great Room features a series of oversized mirror collages with a Qipao motif, overlaid by a delicate Art Deco-inspired screen, reflecting the tension and contrasts between old and new Shanghai. The 660-square-meter Mega Room, in addition to the Studios and Strategy spaces, all cleverly adapt their industrial charm to perfectly suit each event.

The AWAY Spa offers massages, body treatments, facials and quick fixes, all set to leave guests glowing. Guests can also step into the ultra-modern FIT gym that offers 24/7 access to the newest Technogym equipment, or take part in a yoga or tai chi class on the hotel’s wooden deck.

Best Western Plus-Cincinnati Riverfront Downtown Area completes extensive renovations

July 6, 2017

The following is a press release from Commonwealth Hotels:

The 127-room Best Western Plus-Cincinnati Riverfront Downtown Area, after completing a multi-million dollar renovation, hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony June 29^th. The total remodel of both the interior and exterior of the building includes the addition of 20 spacious two-room suites.

The new design features touches of cool blues and orange accents in the expanded lobby and sleek greys, silver and gold in the guest rooms. The full scope of the interior renovation includes new carpet, all new appliances, bedding, floor tile, curtains, paint, wall vinyl, artwork and all new soft seating furniture.

The new deluxe king and double queen suites feature separate living and sleeping areas that is ideal for families. Rooms also include amenities that provide guests the ability to work or study while on the road including a well-lit work desk, ergonomic chair and complimentary Wi-Fi. The property also features 552 square feet of meeting space, a fitness center and indoor pool.

The property has also revamped its food and beverage program and now offers a full hot breakfast selection with freshly cooked eggs, with local offerings including locally sourced coffees, pastries and goetta. In addition, the hotel hosts a nightly Take Two evening reception with complimentary local craft beers and snacks for guests.

“This remodel brings a new vibrant and boutique style to our property, both in the public spaces and guest rooms,” General Manager Beth Wuestefeld said. “It demonstrates our commitment to exceed our guests’ expectations with high quality accommodations that have a touch of local flair including goetta, locally roasted coffee and breads from local bakeries.”

The hotel, which has been managed by Commonwealth Hotels since opening in 1997, was previously branded as the Hampton Inn-Cincinnati Riverfront. Located at 200 Crescent Ave in Covington, Kentucky, Best Western Plus-Cincinnati Riverfront Downtown Area is conveniently located a mile from downtown Cincinnati, with easy access to Paul Brown Stadium, Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati Zoo and Cincinnati area hospitals. The hotel is also a short drive to Newport on the Levee, Northern Kentucky Convention Center, ARK Encounter, Creation Museum and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.