hotels Archives – Page 5 of 15

Ritz-Carlton gets into the yachting business

June 22, 2017

The-Ritz-Carlton-Yacht-Collection — The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (Rendering courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)

The following is a press release from the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company:

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., part of Marriott International, Inc. has announced its entry into luxury yachting and cruises – bringing the award-winning luxury hotel brand’s service and timeless style to sea. Created by The Ritz-Carlton and maritime experts Douglas Prothero and Lars Clasen, in collaboration with funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., The Ritz-Carlton will provide luxury hospitality service under a long-term operating agreement. Named The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, this venture represents a unique foray into the cruise industry for a luxury hotel operator. The first of three lavish cruising yachts in this series is scheduled to take to sea in the fourth quarter of 2019, and distinguishes Marriott International as the only provider of luxury accommodations both on land and at sea.

“The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will have a distinctive personality and the vessels are sure to be true stand outs in some of the most glamorous ports around the world,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. “This unique combination of yachting and cruising will usher in a new way of luxury travel for guests seeking to discover the world in a relaxed, casually elegant and comfortable atmosphere with the highest level of personalized service.”

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (Rendering courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)

Itineraries are being developed with an intent to combine the lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton’s luxury resorts and the casual freedom of a yachting vacation. Calling at intimate and signature destinations alike, voyages will range from seven to ten days. The first ship will cruise a wide variety of destinations depending on the season, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America. Due to the intimate size of the vessel, the yacht will call at unique locations typically not accessible to large cruise ships, from Capri and Portofino to St. Barths and the old town of Cartagena. With a relaxed pace, that includes both overnight and daytime ports of call, guests will be offered a uniquely curated destination experience.

The specially designed small capacity vessel will measure 190-meters, accommodate up to 298 passengers, and feature 149 suites, each with its own private balcony. The yacht will also feature two 138 square-meter lavish duplex penthouse suites, with modern craftsmanship and interior finishes jointly designed by The Ritz-Carlton and leading cruise ship design firm, Tillberg Design of Sweden. The onboard experience will reflect the sublime comfort and unparalleled level of individualized guest service for which the iconic Ritz-Carlton brand is recognized; a first in the cruise industry.

“The Ritz-Carlton is known for its legendary service and high standards,” said Douglas Prothero Managing Director, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “We are delighted to collaborate with The Ritz-Carlton as our hospitality operator in offering the most exclusive yachting experience to be found at sea in a venture that will give new meaning to curated luxury travel,” continued Lars Clasen, Managing Director, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

Throughout the journey, guests will indulge in a cruising style that is unparalleled in the ultra-luxury cruise and private yachting sectors. The Ritz-Carlton yachts will feature a restaurant by Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg; a signature Ritz-Carlton Spa; and a Panorama Lounge and wine bar, offering a wide variety of on-board entertainment. Additionally, the yacht will offer one-of-a-kind curated destination journeys through collaborations with local chefs, musicians and artists, allowing guests to experience the locations in unique and experiential ways, both onboard and ashore.

Reservations will open in May 2018. The ships of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are also available for private charter. For more information, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com/en/yachts

Hard Rock Hotel to open in Daytona Beach in 2017

June 13, 2017

Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach (Rendering courtesy of Hard Rock International)

The following is a press release from Hard Rock International:

Hard Rock International announces plans to open its fourth property in Florida, bringing the brand’s iconic vibe to Daytona Beach in late 2017. The 200-key property will bring unparalleled music offerings and amenities to one of Florida’s most well known vacation destinations. The beachfront property is in collaboration with Summit Hospitality Management Group and managed by Hard Rock International.

“From the gorgeous beaches to the NASCAR races that draw in hundreds of thousands of people each year, we’re thrilled to bring our product to visitors and locals alike in Daytona Beach,” said Marco Roca, executive vice president of global hotel development at Hard Rock International.

“We look forward to collaborating with Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos, a brand that fits perfectly in Daytona Beach and leads the way in the lifestyle hospitality space,” said Abbas Abdulhussein, owner, Humphrey Realty.

True to the Hard Rock brand, the property will feature brand exclusive offerings including a Body Rock workout facility, and a Rock Spa complete with the music-infused Rhythm & Motion spa menu, six treatment rooms, a manicure/pedicure station and poolside cabanas with spa services. In the lobby, the world famous Rock Shop will feature Hard Rock’s iconic merchandise. Keeping families in mind, young rockers can hang out in the brand’s signature hotspot, the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club. Additionally, the property will boast The Sound of Your Stay music amenity program, allowing guests to unleash their inner rock star—whether setting the mood with complimentary vinyl player and records or nailing power chords on a Fender guitar during an in-room jam session.

Catering to the unique needs of business and leisure travelers, Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach will provide 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space, including bright meeting rooms with views of the Atlantic Ocean and an open-air terrace suitable for any meeting or special event needs.

Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach will offer an array of amenities where guests will enjoy all-day dining, 24-hour in-room dining, a grab-and-go coffee shop and a poolside bar and grill. The beachfront property will include an expansive swimming pool and deck, offering guests panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. In addition to the hotel’s beachfront activities, guests will enjoy nearby outdoor experiences, ranging from paddle boarding on the Halifax River to deep-sea fishing out of the Ponce de Leon Inlet.

Through music appreciation and an imaginative environment, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos delivers products for the varied aspects of life—work, play and personal sanctuary. For more information or to book a stay at any of the Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos, please visit www.hardrockhotels.com.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City has grand opening for $6.2 million expansion, launches 2017 Battery Park Concert Series

June 9, 2017

The following is a press release from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City:

This weekend was a celebration of American icons for Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City as it held a grand opening ceremony and guitar smash for its $6.2 million expansion and welcomed Willie Nelson, along with thousands of fans, as the opening act for the 2017 Battery Park Concert Series.

On June 9, in lieu of a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City hosted a grand opening guitar smash for its $6.2 million, nearly 8,000 square feet expansion. The expansion includes 60 new slot machines, two blackjack tables, a private lounge and a feature bar called the Wine Bar, offering 125 different labels and 20 wines by the glass.

“Every time I walk into this new space I’m amazed by how beautiful it is,” said Todd Moyer, general manager of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City. “I am proud that we were able to use local contractors and craftsman to build such a great space. The feedback from our guests has been extraordinary.”

Lining the walls of the newest addition are icons of American music. The entrance to the new space is highlighted by full ensembles from Tom Petty and Jon Bon Jovi. Memorabilia from other American legends, including Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, SLASH and Willie Nelson, are prominently displayed on the walls of the newest gaming space.

Unique to the property’s memorabilia collection is custom artwork from artists Jay Bonadio and Adam Orr. Jay Bonadio is an Orlando-based artist who specializes in “Neo-Mosaic pop art” or what some may simple describe as shattered glass art. His most recent work, a portrayal of Bruce Springsteen, is now housed at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City. San Diego artist Adam Orr’s work displays deep saturated colors with a very glossy, highly textured surface. Three of Adam’s original art pieces now reside at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City, including a portrait of Willie Nelson.

“When looking for the quintessential artist to perform at our grand opening, Willie Nelson immediately came to mind. His performance this weekend to celebrate this new space and to kick off the 2017 Battery Park Concert Series is truly a dream realized,” said Moyer. “We are all very excited to have Willie and other American musical icons identify this new space. Their music so often focused on the celebration of American pride and continues to inspire generations. They uniquely give the room its special vibe.”

Just over 4,000 fans are expected to attend the June 10 Willie Nelson & Family concert, the official kickoff to the 2017 Battery Park Concert Series. Additional shows for the outdoor summer concert series include Journey with Asia (June 30), Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City’s Country Music Festival with Billy Currington, Chase Rice, Whiskey Myers, Michael Tyler & Filmore (July 22), Bret Michaels with Great White & Slaughter (July 28), Alanis Morissette (August 26) and Five Finger Death Punch (September 1).

Le Méridien Visconti Rome has grand opening after a $20 million renovation

June 9, 2017

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR), today marked a milestone: reintroducing the brand to Italy and reimagining an iconic palace to debut Le Méridien Visconti Rome. Following its meticulous renovation and conversion, Le Méridien Visconti Rome, owned and managed by the Toti Group, now boasts custom-designed guestrooms, suites and a transformation of the hotel’s public spaces, including the brand’s signature lobby concept: Le Méridien Hub.

“After reintroducing the brand’s flagship hotel in Paris last year, Le Méridien continues to bring glamour to travel with the opening of Le Méridien Visconti Rome, showcasing the best of Italian design and our bold Destination Unlocked positioning,” said George Fleck, Vice President, Global Brand Marketing & Management, Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts. “With its storied past, the hotel sets the stage for guests to discover the destination – whether you are having a coffee in the brand’s signature Hub surrounded by stunning Italian contemporary art or having an aperitif on the hotel’s rooftop with enchanting views of the city.”

Located in the charming Prati district, ideally situated between the Spanish Steps and the Vatican, Le Méridien Visconti Rome is deceivingly residential with 240 guestrooms and suites – ideal for business, leisure and group travel. Led by ara Design International, the hotel’s redesign is rooted in a classic Italian style with understated, geometrical references to Rome’s fabled treasures, including the Pantheon.

“Le Méridien brand’s philosophy complements the distinctive traits of Italian culture, art, design and music,” said Marina Toti, CEO, Le Méridien Visconti Rome. “We are proud to be part of Marriott International, and with this magnificent hotel serving as an iconic hotel for Le Méridien, we are confident we will achieve great results and success.”

Mid-Century Modernism Meets Italian Style
The hotel’s interior design is a contemporary realisation of mid-century modernism: a material palette of marble, wood and natural textures juxtapose vibrant textile blocks with references to the work of famous Italian designer and architect Gio Ponti, who was popular during the time of the building’s initial construction.

The Hub at Le Méridien Visconti Rome, featuring the Longitude 12 Bar & Bistrot, is a social gathering place for creative people to converse, collaborate and exchange with communal tables and chairs that invite connection and socialising. The focal point of the Hub is the espresso machine, drawing guests to the aroma, sounds and visuals of a master barista at work. The Longitude 12 Bar & Bistrot transforms from a bright and fresh coffee house by day, to a sophisticated cocktail bar by night, revealing a progressive angle on a traditional bar. ara Design International facilitated the design elements of transition from day to night with rotating panels, lowered ambient light and a creative use of mirrors.

The hotel also features a stunning rooftop terrace, offering an inspiring panoramic view of the Eternal City, along with the wide leafy streets of Rome’s fashionable Prati district. The rooftop terrace is the ideal location to enjoy sunset during summertime sipping the brand’s signature Le Méridien Sparkling programme.

Le Méridien Visconti Rome offers ten versatile meeting rooms, totaling 170 square meters. These redesigned meeting rooms reference organic shapes and sophisticated simplicity, ensuring that guests feel continually engaged and inspired.

Unlock Art at Le Méridien Visconti Rome
A vital element of Le Méridien Visconti Rome is art, providing guests a different point of view on the classical heritage of Rome, along with a new way to discover the city and the Italian contemporary art scene.

Guests immediately have a sense of the art programme upon arrival, greeted by a stimulating piece of artwork at the hotel’s entrance: a bas relief map of Rome showcasing the Eternal City’s iconic sites. The hotel’s eclectic art collection features different movements, from abstract art to figurative works, created with different materials, such as the mosaic by Ascanio Renda, the rubber-made artworks by Paolo Canevari, and more traditional oil on canvas paintings. Much of the artwork featured at Le Méridien Visconti Rome is part of the Toti family’s private collection, who chose to feature well-established Italian artists active in the 1980s.

Additionally, Le Méridien Visconti Rome has partnered with La Galleria Nazionale di Arte Moderna in Rome for the brand’s signature Unlock Art™ program, which provides guests with complimentary access to the museum by simply presenting their room key card and the guest pass found in-room. Founded in 1883, the museum is dedicated to modern and contemporary art and features one of the greatest collections in Italy with more than three thousand works, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and engravings.

Rooms at Le Méridien Visconti Rome start from €200 per room per night. For more information, please visit: www.lemeridien.com/rome.

Hyatt Place Austin/Round Rock officially opens in Texas

June 7, 2017

The following is a press release from Hyatt Place Austin/Round Rock:

Hyatt Place Austin/Round Rock, the first Hyatt-branded hotel in Round Rock, Texas, is officially open. The 138-room hotel features the Hyatt Place brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere and practical amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and 24-hour food offerings. The hotel is owned by Sundance Hotel LLC and managed by Cincinnati, Ohio-based Winegardner & Hammons Hotel Group, LLC.

Hyatt Place Austin/Round Rock is located at 420 Sundance Parkway, within the La Frontera E-Commerce Park, just one mile from Dell headquarters and adjacent to Emerson Process Management training center. The hotel is just 15 miles north of Austin, Texas. Often touted as the “sports capital” of Texas, Round Rock features Dell Diamond Park, home of the Round Rock Express, a Triple A Pacific Coast League minor league baseball team and an affiliate of the Texas Rangers,and many amateur sports facilities including the Round Rock Sports Center.

“As Round Rock continues to grow and thrive economically, we are excited to add to the momentum by welcoming the first Hyatt Place hotel to the area,” said Hyatt Place Austin/Round Rock General Manager Mindi Marshall. “With our smartly designed social spaces and guestrooms with separate work and sleep areas, our multitasking guests can easily accomplish what they need to do while on the road. Plus, our free hot breakfast is just the thing our guests need to take on the day.”

Hyatt Place Austin/Round Rock offers:

138 spacious guestrooms with separate spaces to sleep, work and play, as well as a Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper
Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
Gallery Kitchen Breakfast, a free hot breakfast for guests available daily in the Gallery Kitchen, features hot breakfast items, fresh fruit, steel cut oatmeal, Greek yogurt, and more
24/7 Gallery Menu & Market serving freshly prepared meals anytime, day or night and perfectly packaged sandwiches and salads
Coffee to Cocktails Bar featuring specialty coffees and premium beers, as well as wines and cocktails
Odds & Ends program for forgotten items that guests can buy, borrow or enjoy for free
Meetings Spaces offer more than 1,500 square feet of flexible, high-tech meeting/function space
24-hour gym featuring cardio equipment with LCD touchscreens and free ear buds

“Round Rock is a vibrant city, filled with friendly people, great neighborhoods, and an ever expanding list of global businesses and things to do or see,” said Brian Perkins, COO, Winegardner & Hammons Hotel Group, LLC. “Our hotel is central to all of them and we are confident that Hyatt Place Austin/Round Rock will exceed guest expectations and provide them with everything they need while visiting our area.”

HYATT PLACE AUSTIN/ROUND ROCK LEADERSHIP
Hyatt Place Austin/Round Rock is under the leadership of General Manager Mindi Marshall and Director of Sales Sarah Macke. In her role, Marshall is directly responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the hotel, including overseeing the hotel’s associates and ensuring guests encounter the thoughtful service for which the Hyatt Place brand is known. Macke is responsible for providing sales service and support to travelers and meeting planners frequenting the Round Rock area.

W Barcelona unveils renovations of all guest rooms, adds Europe’s first W Sound Suite

June 7, 2017

A renovated guest room at W Barcelona (Rendering courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

W Barcelona, an iconic flagship of W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International (NASDAQ: MAR), today unveiled a multi-million Euro transformation of all 473 guest rooms and suites, along with the addition of Europe’s first W Sound Suite (a music studio and writers room, now available at four W Hotels around the world). The award-winning in-house design team at W Hotels partnered with London-based design studio Bowler James Brindley to reimagine the hotel, inspired by the 24/7 energy and privileged location on the shores of the buzzing Barceloneta.

“W Barcelona has been known for its innovative design since it first opened its doors in 2009,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “The completion of this multi-million Euro makeover ensures this beachside escape will continue to lead the market with its forward-thinking decor and unrivaled guest experience.”

Since the hotel’s inception it has become one of the most distinctive landmarks along the Barcelona coast. Famed for its iconic sail-shape and unprecedented sea views, W Barcelona continues to disrupt and redefine the Barcelona hospitality scene. Regularly hosting fashion events, product launches and high profile guests, the hotel has made a bold impression on both locals and international jetsetters alike.

City and Sea Converge

The new room design celebrates both the city and the sea, embracing the unique views afforded by the hotel’s guest rooms. The color palette is derived from the blue hues of the sea, with pops of white, teal and rose gold to accentuate the light and complement the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The notion of underwater camouflage is displayed in the room’s carpet, which is a playful interpretation of the sea bed seen through the waters of the Mediterranean.

In a nod to Barcelona’s celebrated culinary scene, the modular furniture in the sitting area reflects Spanish tapas culture – chic, small tables and chairs with pendant lighting. The guest room wall reflects the city’s grid with an innovative lighting structure that transforms the mood from day to night. The new rooms also feature signature accent pillows showcasing modern images of iconic characters from Barcelona’s history including Gaudí, Dalí and St. Eulalia.

All guest rooms also feature a range of new in-room services including Nespresso coffee machines, tea making facilities, 49-inch flat-screen televisions and Bose blue-tooth sound systems. Signature W amenities are still available to all guests including the Bliss® Spa sinkside six bath products; the signature W Hotels Bed; access to high-speed WiFi; and the brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever service, which provides guests whatever they want, whenever they want it.

W Sound Suite at W Barcelona (Rendering courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)

Eat. Sleep. Record. Repeat.

Following successful launches at W Bali, W Seattle and W Hollywood, W Barcelona lives up to the city’s reputation as one of the most innovative music capitals by opening Europe’s first W Sound Suite. In partnership with Coca-Cola, this private music studio and writer’s room enables professional recording artists, studio musicians, producers and hotel guests alike, to record in style while on the road. The main mixing room of the W Sound Suite at W Barcelona features a private vocal booth and a lounge big enough for artists and their entourage. W Barcelona will offer private master classes lead by W Barcelona’s Music Curator, exclusive recording sessions and an original space for creative brainstorming sessions for musicians and hotel guests alike.

W Sound Suites are in part the brainchild of the W brand’s North American Music Director, DJ White Shadow, the Chicago-based producer best known for his work with Lady Gaga. The W Sound Suite at W Barcelona is equipped with the latest in studio technology and offers professional specifications in a stylish, comfortable and sound-proof space. To outfit the space, W Hotels partnered with industry leader, Native Instruments, who provided the latest generation of the world’s leading production suite (Komplete 11), a state-of-the-art control keyboard (Komplete Kontrol S-Series), the cutting-edge groove production system used by hip-hop producers around the globe (Maschine) and an all-in-one DJ system (Traktor Kontrol S8), among other items. W Hotels also worked with world-renowned audio company, Shure, to provide new SHR440 headphones, X2u microphones, KSM32/SL microphone condensers and BETA®181 microphone for the ultimate recording experience.

“Barcelona is an epic city known for its nightlife, culture, and most of all- music,” said DJ White Shadow, North American Music Director, W Hotels Worldwide. “The latest W Sound Suite at W Barcelona will be the perfect place for international artists to record while on the road. And for hotel guests that have always dreamt of the spotlight, they can book it too!”

To celebrate the launch of the newest W Sound Suite, W Barcelona will host a new content series in collaboration with local record labels and upcoming artists compiled and selected by PIEM, Music Curator at W Barcelona. The first event will feature TheGround– famed Berlin-based electronic music duo composed of Florian Kruse and Hendrik Burkhard. The celebrated producers will present their unreleased EP in an intimate in-studio performance.

Celebrating In Style

In celebration of the hotel’s striking new room design, W Barcelona has partnered with internationally renowned artist and muralist Ricardo Cavolo to create a limited-edition footwear collection in collaboration with Muroexe, a Spanish urban shoe brand.

Inspiration for the Ricardo Cavolo x W Barcelona sneaker collection is easily found in the hotel’s stunning location on the shores of the Mediterranean, with design elements such as waves, palm trees, the sun and the color blue incorporated throughout. These unique features are accentuated by Cavolo’s trademarks – fire and hearts – for a lighthearted spin on footwear. The sneakers are available for purchase for 150 Euro at W-Barcelona.com/RCxW.

For more information about the renovation of W Barcelona visit W-Barcelona.com/NeverBoring.

Courtyard New York Manhattan/SoHo completes $2 Million renovation

June 6, 2017

(Photos courtesy of Courtyard New York Manhattan/South)

The following is a press release from Courtyard New York Manhattan/SoHo:

When the 120-room Courtyard New York Manhattan/SoHo opened in the Hudson Square area on Varick Street in 2010, it was a sleek, modern addition to a unique neighborhood known since the 1930s for its spacious lofts and printing houses.

Today, the area is home to designers, marketing and tech companies, trendy restaurants and shops — and now the completely reimagined SoHo hotel. The Greenwich Village hotel adopted a “120 rooms in 35 days” mantra to complete a $2 million remodel that included 119 rooms and one suite plus all public areas and the lobby-level Table 181 lounge. In a little over a month, taking three to four floors at a time, the renovation was completed quickly — which meant little inconvenience to guests who are now treated to a brand-new look with even more comfort.

Rooms at the boutique-style SoHo hotel feature custom-fitted furnishings in muted red and black colors and abstract touches, bringing in the feeling of the neighborhood. New wallcoverings, curtains, lamps and mattresses give the accommodations a fresh look. Each room has a refrigerator, coffee station, safe and complimentary Wi-Fi. On floors 14-20, city view rooms overlook either the Hudson River or Manhattan skyline, with the Empire State Building as a centerpiece. A unique design feature in several rooms is a glass wall that extends several inches beyond the surface of the building, giving guests a surreal glass niche in which to gaze out over the city.

The SoHo hotel’s two-story lobby is a great place to relax or work in one of the intimate media pods or at a high-top seating area at Table 181, open for breakfast and evening beverages. Starbucks® drinks also are available.

About Courtyard New York Manhattan/SoHo
Courtyard New York Manhattan/SoHo at 181 Varick Street between King and Charlton streets is walking distance to well-known neighborhood places such as Jacques Torres Chocolates and City Winery. Varick Street is just two blocks from the heart of SoHo, with its many art galleries, shops and restaurants. The hotel features 19 floors with 119 rooms and 1 suite in addition to 1 meeting room with 231 square feet, a restaurant, on-site laundry facilities and a fitness center with cardio equipment and free weights. For information, visit www.marriott.com/NYCMT or call 1-212-414-8282.

Courtyard offers a refreshing environment that helps guests stay connected, productive and balanced. Intuitive services and design accommodate guests’ needs for choice and control. With over 1,000 locations in over 40 destinations, Courtyard hotels participate in the award-winning Marriott Rewards® frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay.

Courtyard Philadelphia Devon renovates lobby and fitness center

June 6, 2017

Discover a seamless blend of fashion and functionality in the newly renovated lobby and fitness center within Courtyard Philadelphia Devon.

Just in time for summer, the hotel near Villanova inspires a bright new stay with the completion of its $225,000 renovations. Whether traveling for business or leisure, guests can experience new features within the stylish lobby. From the moment they check in, visitors will be welcomed by the new décor designed to feel like an upscale living room. The lobby also features new chairs and tables, perfect for friendly rendezvous and impromptu meetings with clients. Lighting fixtures, sleek vinyl walls, new carpet and a fresh coat of paint complete comfortable gathering space.

The lobby elevates the dining experience by matching perfectly with the on-site restaurant, The Bistro – Eat. Drink. Connect. Open for breakfast and dinner, the hotel’s eatery effortlessly serves an array of delicious meals and beverages. Mingle with friends, family and colleagues over Starbucks® beverages or evening cocktails in the stylish backdrop with comfortable seating and spacious tables. With this set of updates, the lobby and The Bistro now feature a dynamic ambiance ideal for lounging, meeting and dining.

When not satisfying cravings in The Bistro, travelers will find updates in the hotel’s fitness center. Making it easier to break a sweat, the workout space now comes with newly furnished floors. Guests can drop by anytime during their stay and enjoy the amenities of the 24-hour fitness center. Run on the cardio machines featuring personal TV monitors or find lifting needs met with the well-managed free weights.

After experiencing the array of new amenities, visitors can retire to comfortable rooms and suites. Pillow top beds with cotton-rich linens and fluffy pillows await guests after a long day. Free high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-panel TVs and ergonomic workstations are included in all accommodations. Select rooms and suites include plush, pull-out sofa beds, a view of the courtyard and separated bedrooms.

Courtyard Philadelphia South at the Navy Yard unveils $8 million room expansion

June 6, 2017

The following is a press release from Courtyard Philadelphia South at the Navy Yard:

As the popularity of The Navy Yard booms, the demand for hospitality continues to rise as well.

In response to this exponential growth, Courtyard Philadelphia South at The Navy Yard spent $8 million to expand its property. The hotel now boasts an additional 40 more rooms designed for today’s traveler.

General Manager Derek Beckman said he is enthusiastic to share these fresh spaces with visitors staying in The City of Brotherly Love.

“Since over 150 major companies and organizations are situated in The Navy Yard, it comes to no surprise that there is a need for more hotel rooms,” Beckman said. “With this expansion, we’ll be able to handle and accommodate more visitors than we ever have before. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, our guests can expect the right blend of attentive services and modern comfort that help them move toward a successful travel experience.”

When visitors enter their quarters, they will notice sleek décor and a relaxing ambiance emphasized by a muted color palette. Corporate professionals can efficiently finish assignments with expansive work desks and ergonomic chairs, while complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-panel TVs are available to help guests stay well-connected and entertained. Weary travelers can find some much-needed rest on pillow top mattresses with crisp linens, custom comforters and fluffy pillows. Guests can upgrade to the hotel’s home-inspired suites with private bedrooms and living rooms when more space is desired.

Not only is the Philadelphia Courtyard a popular choice among business travelers, but sports lovers will appreciate the hotel’s unbeatable location near the homes of Philadelphia’s favorite teams. Guests can easily walk to catch a professional baseball game at Citizens Bank Park, join the roaring crowd of football fans at Lincoln Financial Field and witness every slam dunk or slap shot at Wells Fargo Center. For golf enthusiasts, Franklin D. Roosevelt Golf Club is just a mile away.

Of course, no Philadelphia trip is complete without visiting the historic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Travelers can hop abroad a downtown train via the AT&T Station, which is less than a mile from the hotel.

Ritz-Carlton, Astana opens, the first Ritz-Carlton in Kazakhstan

June 5, 2017

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

The Ritz-Carlton, the legendary luxury hotel brand, opened the doors of its first hotel in the capital of Kazakhstan. With the capital city an emerging destination for business and leisure travelers, The Ritz-Carlton, Astana elevates the local hospitality landscape with exceptional service, elegant accommodations, and commitment to creating memorable experiences.

“We are excited to be launching The Ritz-Carlton in this flourishing capital and can’t wait to help our guests discover what made The New York Times call Astana one of the 52 places to visit in 2017,” said Hervé Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “With the highly anticipated international exposition, Astana EXPO-2017, expected to draw 3 to 4 million visitors to the city this summer, there is no better time to introduce The Ritz-Carlton, Astana and showcase this as a destination with a bright future.”

Located in the Talan Towers, The Ritz-Carlton, Astana, owned by Verny Capital Group, joins an elite business center and luxury shopping gallery to create the city’s first high-end, mixed-use complex, creating a new type of lifestyle and luxury experience in the region. With a unique yet graceful design, The Ritz-Carlton, Astana is also a natural extension of the square around the nearby Bayterek Tower, a monument and symbol of modern Astana.

The Ritz-Carlton, Astana features 157 guest rooms, including 32 suites, and 27 residences, all of which offer panoramic city views, thoughtful design that celebrates the beauty of the capital city, and spacious layouts. A Club Lounge on the 14^th floor provides guests with an additional sanctuary, private check-in, dedicated Club Concierge, and culinary presentations throughout the day.

“Much like the monument it overlooks, The Ritz-Carlton, Astana represents the future of Astana and acknowledges the city’s growing power and prominence,” added Humler. “By bringing The Ritz-Carlton’s legacy of service together with Kazakhstan’s traditional culture of hospitality, our guests will feel truly at home in this city as they experience all that Astana has to offer as it comes into its own.”

Three new restaurants showcase gastronomic excellence from around the world and will delight guests and local residents alike. Adjacent to the main entrance, Өzen offers the finest selection of organic produce, while Mökki, an all-day dining restaurant, offers guests a sense of comfort. The selection is completed with Selfie Astana, the newest creation of the Russian-based restaurant group White Rabbit Family, which will offer masterful cuisine to accompany the stunning city view from the 18th floor.

A peaceful spa retreat will also offer an array of treatments and spa packages that include seasonal offerings and signature treatments, all of which are chosen for their holistic qualities. Spa amenities include a dry and steam sauna and swimming pool, with a fitness studio adjacent to the spa. Additionally, The Ritz-Carlton, Astana will help create unforgettable meetings and events by offering luxurious settings paired with exceptional cuisine and personalized service. The hotel’s 1000 square meter ballroom, well-appointed meetings rooms, and modern business and banquet amenities are well suited to accommodate a diverse range of meetings and events.