Marriott International Archives – Page 2 of 4

2018 Venice Food & Wine Festival: talent lineup announced

April 17, 2018

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts and FOOD & WINE are thrilled to announce the addition of notable talent for the inaugural Venice Food & Wine Festival in Venice, Italy, including award-winning singer and songwriter Emeli Sandé, who will headline the festival’s grand finale concert. Culinary legends, Michelin-starred Chef Missy Robbins, food artist, baker and owner of Flour Shop Amirah Kassem, and Chef and Food Stylist Camille Becerra, have also joined the impressive roster of celebrated and established epicureans.

Tickets are available to the highly-anticipated Venice Food & Wine Festival, which will take place at JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa from May 3-6. Hosted by FOOD & WINE Editor-in-Chief Hunter Lewis, the festival will join celebrity chefs, renowned winemakers, and epicurean insiders for a spectacular three-day weekend showcasing the finest Italian cuisines, wines, and spirits, with a focus on local Veneto traditions and the magnetism of the Venetian islands. Guests will have personal access to internationally-celebrated chefs and wine and spirits experts including:

Michelin-starred chef Giancarlo Perbellini and chef Federico Belluco of JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa’s Michelin-starred Dopolavoro restaurant
James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef, author, restaurateur and 2004 FOOD & WINE Best New Chef Scott Conant
Michelin-starred chef and owner of Lilia Missy Robbins
Food artist, baker and owner of Flour Shop Amirah Kassem
2002 FOOD & WINE Best New Chef and James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur Fabio Trabocchi
James Beard Award-winning chef Jonathan Waxman
Chef and food stylist Camille Becerra
James Beard Award-winning chef Melissa Kelly
Award-winning Italian chef Caterina Ceraudo
Co-owner and beverage director of Spirited Award-winning 2017 Best American Cocktail Bar Columbia Room and 2016 FOOD & WINE Best New Mixologist JP Fetherston
Wine expert Anthony Giglio
FOOD & WINE’s Executive Wine Editor Ray Isle
FOOD & WINE’s Editor-in-Chief Hunter Lewis

With leading sponsors such as illy caffè, Barilla, San Pellegrino, Aromatherapy Associates and Electrolux, Venice Food & Wine will feature enriching gastronomic experiences including: ‘Mercado di Rialto,’ a market-themed lunch with live music and lawn games; ‘The Feed,’ a lunch experience inclusive of Instagram and photography tips; ‘Saluti After Dark,’ a daily after hours party with crafted cocktails accompanied by whimsical Flour Shop treats and live music at Rose Bar; ‘Bocce & Bubbles’ tournament and al fresco lunch at the Villa; ‘Michelin-Starred Masters’ dinner party; ‘Curds & Whey’ ricotta-making demonstration; ‘Grown in Veneto’ farm-to-fork dinner; ‘Summertime Risotto & Spritz’ demonstration; ‘The Invention of Italian Cocktails,’ mastering the art of making the perfect cocktail; and interactive culinary workshops led by notable culinary personalities at Sapori Cooking Academy.

“Venice Food & Wine’s newest talent additions will bring an exciting dynamic to our distinguished roster of culinary figures. We are thrilled to showcase the craft of these internationally-acclaimed personalities so all of the festival attendees can experience The JW Treatment,” said Mitzi Gaskins, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts. “Through JW Marriott’s exclusive partnership with FOOD & WINE, the festival will highlight modern Italian cuisine with the magical JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa as the backdrop.”

Tickets to the Venice Food & Wine Festival are available online and can be purchased by visiting www.jwvenicefoodandwine.com. JW Marriott would also like to thank additional sponsors including Agroittica, Domori, Ferrari, Steelite International, and Umana along with our many festival participants.

About JW Marriott

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. These elegant hotels cater to sophisticated, self-assured travelers seeking The JW Treatment™ – the brand’s philosophy that true luxury is created by people who are passionate about what they do. JW hotels offer crafted experiences that bring to life the brand’s commitment to highly choreographed, anticipatory service and modern residential design, allowing guests to pursue their passions and leave even more fulfilled than when they arrived. Today there are nearly 80 JW Marriott hotels in over 25 countries and territories. JW Marriott is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®. Members can now link accounts with Starwood Preferred Guest® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

About FOOD & WINE

FOOD & WINE is the ultimate authority on the best of what’s new in food, drink, travel, design and entertaining. FOOD & WINE has an extensive social media following on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr and Snapchat. FOOD & WINE includes a monthly magazine in print and digital; a website, foodandwine.com; a books division; plus newsletters, clubs, events, dinnerware, cookware and a restaurant partnership, Chefs Club by FOOD & WINE. At Food & Wine, we inspire and empower our wine and food obsessed community to eat, drink, entertain, and travel better—every day and everywhere.

Marriott International unveils unified Loyalty programs with one set of benefits

April 16, 2018

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

Marriott International announced it will introduce one set of unified benefits across Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) for its members in August 2018. This will create an incredibly rich hospitality loyalty program in which members will earn more points faster than under the prior programs — on average 20% more points for every dollar spent. For the first time, members will have access to book stays and earn or redeem points among 29 participating global brands comprising 6,500 hotels in 127 countries and territories. Additionally, the Moments experiential platform is expanding, with more than 110,000 experiences in 1,000 destinations from must-see attraction tickets and tours for purchase with cash by all guests, to once-in-a-lifetime events only available to members using points, including the new bespoke Moments Live event series.

“We listened to the travel aspirations of our members and set our sights on unlocking the full potential of our loyalty programs,” said David Flueck, Senior Vice President of Global Loyalty, Marriott International. “We are excited to announce that this August, our members can enjoy one set of benefits across our extraordinary portfolio of hotels from iconic full and select service, to extended stay, to unique boutiques and luxury brands. We hope to inspire our members whatever their travel passion, whether it is resorts featuring overwater bungalows, peaceful secluded island settings, ski-in / ski-out mountain resorts, towering hotels with picture-worthy views or even former palaces converted into hotels.”

Beginning in August, members will be able to combine their separate Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards and SPG accounts into a single account spanning the entire loyalty portfolio. The Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) names will continue to live on under the new set of unified benefits until a new program name is introduced in 2019.

Also beginning in August, travelers will have the ability to book stays across the entire portfolio for the first time on Marriott.com, SPG.com and the Marriott and SPG apps, or by contacting customer engagement centers.

“There are no more important customers than our loyalty members,” said Karin Timpone, Global Marketing Officer, Marriott International. “With good news for our members, we decided to announce the new benefits now and launch them as quickly as possible, so members could take full advantage. At the same time, we will continue to introduce more exclusive member experiences throughout the year on our Moments platforms.”

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort (Photo courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)

Achieve Elite Status and Earn Points Faster
In August, members will be able to earn and redeem across the entire portfolio of participating hotels and earn elevated benefits and elite status faster with new elite tiers. For example, earning Silver elite status after just ten nights and Gold elite status after just 25 nights will become standard in all three programs. With Platinum elite status earned after 50 nights and Platinum Premier elite status earned after 75 nights, these tiers will become easier to attain for Marriott Rewards and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards members and align with SPG’s current offering. In addition, all Platinum Premier members surpassing 100 nights and $20,000 of spend will enjoy the highest level of personalized service – the popular ambassador program – along with all the other benefits in that tier. Members who have achieved Lifetime status will continue to have their status recognized.

The breakfast offering for Platinum and Platinum Premier members will be expanded to 23 participating brands, including Courtyard, AC Hotels by Marriott, Protea and Moxy, as well as resorts. For certain brands, members will receive free breakfast or an on-property food and beverage credit for breakfast or other dining options.

Under the unified benefits, a single points currency will be introduced. In August, SPG members will see their points balance triple. SPG, Marriott Rewards and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards members will all earn ten points for every dollar spent at all brands except for Residence Inn, TownePlace Suites and Element which will be five points per every dollar spent. With bonuses, elite members will earn even more for stays. In August, all members will begin earning points for food and beverage and qualifying incidentals on their folio, rather than just the room rate.

Simpler to Redeem Points
To make it easier for members to redeem points, all hotels throughout the loyalty portfolio will have no blackout dates for points redemptions. In addition, a Free Night Award chart with peak, standard and off-peak pricing will be adopted for all hotels. The chart, which will launch with standard pricing in August, will add off peak and peak in 2019.

More Mobile Features
Members will enjoy a significantly improved digital and mobile experience. When members book directly on Marriott.com, SPG.com or any of Marriott’s mobile apps, they will be able to choose from all 6,500 participating hotels, and also take advantage of exclusive member-only rates and free Wi-Fi. In addition, members will be able to check-in or check out, receive Room Ready Alerts chat directly with hotels using Mobile Requests and where available use their smartphones as their room key on all of Marriott’s mobile apps.

To learn more about program changes and benefits, please go here.

Accelerate Earning Points and Accessing Benefits with New, Refreshed Co-Brand Credit Cards
Marriott and its credit card partners JPMorgan Chase and American Express will offer new and refreshed co-branded credit cards in the U.S. later this year that will provide card members with more benefits across the entire loyalty portfolio. On May 3, Chase will launch the new Marriott Rewards® Premier Plus Credit Card, and in August, American Express will introduce the new Starwood Preferred Guest® American Express Luxury Card. These new products will offer valuable perks and more ways to earn points when using the cards to pay for stays worldwide.

The new Chase Marriott Rewards® Premier Plus Credit Card will give card members six Marriott Rewards points per dollar spent at participating hotels, two points per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases, an anniversary free-night certificate for any property up to 35,000 points, guaranteed elite status and much more.

The new Starwood Preferred Guest® American Express Luxury Card will offer card members six points per dollar spent at participating hotels, three points per dollar spent on airfare and at U.S. restaurants, and two points per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. Card members will also receive $300 annually in statement credits for on-property purchases, a free night award up to 50,000 points, automatic Gold elite status, a $100 fee credit for Global Entry, Priority Pass Select membership and more.

Members can choose to keep their current cards, or they can apply for, or upgrade to the new cards. Card members with the existing consumer and small business Starwood Preferred Guest American Express Card, the Chase Marriott Rewards Premier Business Credit Card, and the JPMorgan Ritz-Carlton Rewards Credit Card can continue to enjoy the benefits of their current cards and the exciting changes that will be announced soon. Finally, we will be announcing changes to cobrand cards in Canada, Japan, The United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates at a later date. To learn more about the new and refreshed cards visit here.

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

Increased Access to Unparalleled Experiences
Research shows today’s modern travelers value experiences over things. Marriott’s greatly expanded experiential offerings on Moments can be purchased with cash and do not require a hotel reservation. As an added benefit, Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) members will earn points every time they purchase one of the new experiences. The 110,000 new Moments experiences in 1,000 destinations are in addition to the 8,000 exclusive, member experiences that only can be redeemed with points on Marriott Rewards Moments and SPG Moments. In the future, all Moments experiences will be available to be redeemed with points.

Experiences range from destination tours and day trips like shark cage diving in Gansbaai, South Africa, to once-in-a-lifetime events. These include exclusive member concerts, VIP experiences to coveted sports events like the Super Bowl and music festivals like Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, as well as hands-on master classes and meet & greets with some of the world’s top athletes, musicians and chefs, including among others, actor and musician Jared Leto and his band 30 Seconds to Mars, chef Daniel Boulud and Lewis Hamilton, the four-time Formula One™ World Champion and Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport driver.

Marriott is also announcing Moments Live, a collection of premiere musical and culinary events powered by Marriott’s partnership with Universal Music Group (UMG) and its newest partnership with LITV Entertainment Group. The series kicks off with a selection of:

VIP access and exclusive performances throughout Keith Urban’s recently announced Graffiti U World Tour.
Access to intimate, thoughtfully crafted events with superstar chefs and well-known musicians in picturesque settings.
Exclusive, VIP access to music and culinary themed events in Napa Valley, such as private festivals Live In The Vineyard and Live In The Vineyard Goes Country.

In the coming months, Marriott will provide members with information about how and when in August they can begin combining their loyalty accounts.

The information above represents a summary of the upcoming changes to Marriott’s award-winning loyalty programs and is subject to the full terms and conditions of the programs that will be available to the public at the time the changes become effective.

About Marriott International, Inc.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 6,500 properties in 30 leading hotel brands spanning 127 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company also operates award-winning loyalty programs: Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest®. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

Hotel Zachary opens in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood

April 12, 2018

Hotel Zachary in Chicago (Photo courtesy of Dave Burk Photography)

The following is a press release from the Walsh Group:

A new boutique, lifestyle hotel has opened adjacent to historic Wrigley Field. Hotel Zachary at Gallagher Way blends classic elements with modern aesthetics and draws inspiration from its landmark neighbor.

Built by Walsh Construction, the seven-story, 238,000-square-foot hotel development includes 173 guestrooms and a variety of Chicago-based retail and restaurant offerings.

The design of the hotel pays homage to its namesake, Zachary Taylor Davis, the Chicago Architect who designed Wrigley Field in 1914. Hickory Street Capital, owner of Hotel Zachary, worked closely with Davis’ family throughout the entire development process to ensure his legacy was celebrated. Stantec Architecture and Studio K Creative designed a modern version of the early 20th century architecture.

Walsh served as the general contractor and began demolition of an existing structure in March 2016 and later broke ground in July. Walsh and design team members worked over the next 21 months to deliver the new hotel ahead of schedule in March 2018.

“We championed the soft skills on this project; we were a partner everyday with our customer to make sure their goals were achieved,” said Project Manager, Nehal Desai. “We are very proud of the product we delivered and the relationships we developed along the way.”

Hotel Zachary is the latest addition to Walsh’s portfolio of hospitality projects. The firm has recently completed other hotels in Chicago, including the 17-story renovation of the historic Chicago Motor Club into a Hampton Inn, as well as a Hyatt Centric Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn and Cambria Hotel in Chicago’s loop district.

“The entire Walsh team worked safely and produced a high-quality product that becomes part of the fabric of the Wrigleyville experience,” said Jeff Pezza, vice president of Walsh Construction.

About The Walsh Group
Walsh Construction is part of The Walsh Group, a 120-year-old company providing design, build, finance, operation and activation services. The Walsh Group operates as Walsh Construction, Archer Western and Walsh Canada across 18 regional offices. The company is ranked as the 11th largest contractor in the United States according to Engineering News-Record. Connect with The Walsh Group at www.walshgroup.com; LinkedIn; Twitter; Facebook; and Instagram.

UPDATE: Hotel Zachary is now part of Marriott International and is now called Hotel Zachary, Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. More information can be reached at the hotel’s current website.

W Amman debuts as W Hotels’ first property in Jordan

April 11, 2018

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International, unveiled W Amman, the brand’s first property in Jordan. Developed by Eagle Hills Jordan, the 280-room hotel is located in the heart of Amman’s up and coming new downtown neighborhood, Abdali, and features design inspired by the energy of the Middle East and charm of Jordanian history, culture and tradition with a playfully modern twist.

“Jordan is an incredible country, rich with culture and a deep connection to its history. We could not be happier to make our brand debut in the country here in the capital city,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “Amman, and specifically the exciting new downtown district of Abdali, is an ideal destination for the W brand with its engaging social scene and deeply rooted passion for design, music and fashion.”

W Amman marks the first hotel collaboration between Marriott International and Eagle Hills Jordan which will be followed by three more hotel openings across Jordan – The St. Regis Amman, The Westin Saraya Aqaba and Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Saraya Aqaba.

W Amman stands tall as a contemporary and unmistakable architectural statement, offering stunning views of the bustling city’s seven hills running across the Jordanian capital. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with the iconic W sign, inspired by Amman’s unique cityscape and cubic architecture, in the colors of Jordan’s distinctive sunset. Stepping into the Welcome area, the hotel’s façade invokes the unique and colossal beauty of Petra’s rock formations, reminiscent of the Nabatean city’s striking appearance, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Throughout the Canyon Walk, guests are enveloped in a modern design marvel, reinterpreting the natural beauty of Petra’s canyon with shard structures and natural tones that can also be seen throughout the hotel.

Each of the 236 rooms and 44 suites at W Amman feature floor-to-ceiling windows and vivid designs, along with W signature beds and modern bathrooms with rain showers. Pillows and throws feature an illustrative interpretation of the Amman skyline and an adapted rendition of beautifully adorned camels of the desert, both in colorful detail. The hotel features a range of suites including four WOW Suites and a 1,710-square-foot Extreme WOW Suite (the brand’s take on the Presidential suite) – the ultimate party place with sweeping panoramic views of Amman’s landscape, an in-room DJ deck, amplified entertainment system, and private jacuzzi.

W Amman is set to add its own rhythm to the beat of Amman’s social scene with its vibrant public spaces and culinary experiences. The hotel’s Living Room (the brand’s take on the traditional lobby) is a clubhouse for the modern traveler, showcasing a fusion of intimate and open areas, low seating and mood-setting lighting among architectural features that mirror Amman’s extraordinary cityscape. Elements of Bedouin weaving, flower pots, and locally designed pillows from the Jordan River Foundation (a non-profit focusing on child safety and community empowerment) provide modernized versions of common patterns, colors and shapes from the city. The space is complemented by modern art from Bahraini artist, Jamal A. Rahim that gives an edge of Middle Eastern influence and bright splashes of color alongside the work of Jordanian artist Bader Mahasneh, who utilizes rough surfaces and illuminated figures in a series of striking paintings of faces.

Just steps away from the Living Room, Mesh provides international cuisine with a Levantine touch while bringing the right ingredients together through food, design and guests looking to mingle next to images of fresh produce from Dar Al Anda, one of Jordan’s most prominent contemporary art galleries. For those seeking a place to unwind or escape, Aura offers signature beverages and delicious bar bites from around the world in a space that once again reinterprets the stunning angles and elevations of Petra with rose stone tones and colorful, silk-like flooring. Aura, and other areas in the hotel also feature exquisite pieces of art work from Jordanian artist, Hazem Al Zoubi. Enso, the hotel’s signature Pan-Asian restaurant, ignites taste buds by bringing together flavors from five regional cuisines across South East Asia in a sleek setting. The WET Deck (pool deck) brings a new vibe to the city’s party scene and will be the place to see and be seen. The beautiful rooftop space is the perfect destination to bask under the sun and enjoy stunning views of west Amman while indulging in cocktails or listening to performances from Amman’s up-and-coming musical talent. The design of the WET Deck includes a modern depiction of The Roman Theater’s Atrium.

For guests to refuel and reinvigorate, AWAY Spa at W Amman offers massages, body treatments, facials and quick fixes promising look good/feel good experiences in a fun, yet relaxed setup. Guests can then step into the modern FIT gym that features 24/7 access to the newest Technogym equipment. The hotel also plays host to social and business gatherings across 780 square meters of versatile meeting and event space, including the stunning 629-square-meter Great Room and four fully equipped, stylish Strategy and Studio rooms.

W Amman offers the W brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever® service to provide guests whatever they want, whenever they want it. The hotel’s W Insider, an in-the-know local expert, connects guests with the hottest events, attractions and adventures to suit any and every travel style.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.wammanhotel.com.

St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort announces October 2018 re-opening following $60 million renovation

April 10, 2018

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is thrilled to announce that the property is slated to open on October 29, 2018, following an extensive $60 million renovation at Bahia Beach. The renovation is inclusive of every guestroom and suite, the Plantation House, the heart of the resort where guests will enjoy The St. Regis Bar and the property’s signature restaurant, the seaside pool and esplanade, which will offer a casual dining option for guests, the spa, and the ocean-front golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Additionally, The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort also announces the new $85 million beachfront, ultra-luxury residential development, Ocean Drive, as well as The Atlantic Drive Estates and plans for a resort expansion.

Owner John Paulson, Paulson & Co. said, “The St. Regis Bahia Beach has always been an incredibly beautiful resort. With the new upgrades, it will be even more remarkable than it was before the 2017 hurricanes.”

“We are delighted to see further investment at Bahia Beach, of which we are an integral part,” said Ian-Robert Ciappara, General Manager of The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort. “With renovated and contemporary guestrooms and amenities, as well as luxury residential offerings, Bahia Beach and The St. Regis are poised to remain the absolute luxury go to on the island, welcoming travelers from around the globe seeking sun, relaxation, culture and glamour at the best address in the Caribbean.”

Designed by celebrated Puerto Rican designer Nono Maldonado together with internationally renowned Hirsch Bedner Associates of San Francisco, and inspired by the surrounding sea, sand and foliage, the 139 refurbished rooms and suites at The St. Regis will boast a light, modern and organic aesthetic in a contemporary and residential setting. A tranquil color palette of shades of whites and light blues will beautifully complement ocean and lush tropical garden views, while custom furniture pieces such as a glass bar cabinet will evoke an inviting and luxurious home. The modern, light-centric design is also seen in the Plantation House, which will greet guest upon arrival and is home to the resort’s signature fine-dining restaurant and St. Regis Bar. Anchored by The Long Awaited Voyage, a mural by Puerto Rican artist Arnaldo Roche Rabell that has been restored following the storms and hangs above The St. Regis Bar, the two-story building is a warm, lively and glamorous gathering space that overlooks the ocean and invites guests to simply relax and take in the view, as well as experience the brand’s champagne sabering ritual and enjoy live music from a Steinway Piano from the comfort of a plush banquette. The seaside pool and esplanade has also undergone a renovation, and will now offer a casual dining restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating in addition to luxurious poolside cabanas and lounge chairs, as well as the spa, which will debut as The Iridium Spa at The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort when the property opens.

All structures have been built below the tree line, affording spectacular and unspoiled views along the resort’s two-mile stretch of private beach, where one has access to beach towels, comfortable lounge chairs, umbrellas and beach service. For the ultimate beachside indulgence, private Beach Front Cabanas featuring signature St. Regis service will be available to reserve.

Available through a new collaboration with Aquavento Water Sports, equipment and activities for children and adults alike to enjoy includes non-motorized water sports such as surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing and fishing in any of the surrounding lakes. The property also offers numerous trails for biking, walking and running, all nestled under the canopy of the tropical setting and inviting one to further discover and immerse themselves in the preserved surrounding nature. For guests interested in volunteer opportunities and activities that give back to the community and destination, the property is working in collaboration with the Bahia Beach Resort Golf Club and its non-profit organization Alma de Bahia on several initiatives to support the affected communities in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is proud to offer these opportunities and assist those who were impacted by the storms.

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort also announces the launch of an $85 million beachfront, ultra-luxury residential development, The Ocean Drive Residences. Comprising of 30 luxurious condominium residences in three beachfront buildings, The Ocean Drive Beachfront Residences at The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort will offer three- and four-bedroom residences and penthouse models ranging in size from 3,379 to 4,048 square feet of interior space. Created by SB Architects of Miami and Hirsch Bedner Associates of San Francisco, the design of each residence takes inspiration from the spectacular nature and wild environment surrounding the property. Features also include innovatively designed living areas, expansive beach front terraces with outdoor bars and kitchens, and direct private elevator access. Residents will additionally enjoy Five-Star hotel services and amenities provided by St. Regis, breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and a two-mile stretch of crescent beach. The first building is under development and is expected to be completed by June 2019.

The property is also slated to debut The Atlantic Drive Estates, a collection of coastal home sites located in a prime location just west of The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort. This exclusive collection of luxury property sites will provide residents the ideal opportunity to custom-design and build their own homes in beachfront sites and premium golf and lake locations.

Additionally, The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort announces plans for a $30 million expansion to the resort. Occupying a secluded stretch of land adjacent to the current guest room accommodations, the expansion will add 60 oceanfront rooms to the hotel’s inventory and introduce a more contemporary style with family-friendly and flexible rooms to the destination.

Located on a former coconut plantation and situated between the El Yunque National Forest and Espíritu Santo River State Preserve, The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is set on 483 pristine acres and it is the only Gold-certified Audubon Signature Sanctuary in Puerto Rico as well as rated AAA Five Diamond. The resort also offers St. Regis’ legendary Butler Service, state-of-the-art fitness center, four deco turf hard tennis courts, a St. Regis Kids Club, and an ocean-front golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. The property is a short 30-minute drive from the vibrant town of Old San Juan.

W Ibiza set to open in 2019

April 10, 2018

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

The party is just getting started in paradise. W Hotels Worldwide, part of Marriott International, today announced plans to debut its newest hotel in Spain with the opening of W Ibiza in Summer 2019. Owned by Inversions Hoteleres Ebza S.L., W Ibiza will be located in Santa Eulalia del Río, a buzzing beachside neighborhood centrally located to Ibiza’s famous beaches, nightclubs and rural-chic inland attractions. Scheduled to open in 2019, the hotel’s beachfront location will provide guests with direct access to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

“With its playful energy and bohemian spirit, Ibiza is an ideal destination and perfect match for W Hotels,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “We have been present in Ibiza since 2010 with a variety of W music events and partnerships, so we’re thrilled to be finally opening a W Hotel on the island that we know our guests love. Following the success of W Barcelona and the forthcoming debuts of W Madrid (2019) and W Marbella (2021), W Ibiza will remix the expected and provide a new take on the (in)famous island.”

Destined to be the new entertainment hub in the Santa Eulalia neighborhood, W Ibiza will embrace the destination’s eclectic roots through bold and innovative design, capturing the free spirit of Ibiza whilst elevating the experience to a new level. Three distinct concepts designed for dining, drinking and relaxing will be complemented by a lively rooftop sunset bar and adults only WET Deck (the brand’s signature take on the poolside scene). A second WET Deck will have direct access to the beachfront promenade and the white sands of Santa Eulalia beach, which guests will be able to enjoy from W Ibiza’s very own ‘Chiringuito’, the brands elevated take on the quintessential beach bars of Ibiza.

To detox from the night before, guests can enjoy the spacious 4,000 square foot Away Spa with seven private treatment rooms and the brand’s signature FIT gym experience. The 162 guestrooms and suites will bring a new level of eclectic luxury to the Isle, with beloved W comforts to ensure guests are fully recharged for the night ahead. With the brand’s iconic Whatever/Whenever^® service available 24/7, and the clued-in W Insider on hand to grant access to the hot-spots nobody knows about, guests will be able to have whatever they want, whenever they want it.

W Ibiza will join a portfolio of more than 50 W Hotels around the world, including recently opened locations such as W Shanghai – The Bund and W Goa. Spain is on track to boast four W Hotels by 2021 with the opening of W Madrid (2019), W Ibiza (2019) and W Marbella (2021) slated to join the acclaimed W Barcelona in redefining the country’s hospitality scene. The hotel will also be the thirteenth W Escape, the brand’s playfully luxe take on the traditional resort experience, which includes sand, ski and entertainment destinations around the world. Each W Escape provides a signature Sunset Beats ritual to warm up for the night ahead, while also offering epic experiences for adrenaline-seekers and lounge junkies alike (think shaman healings at W Bali or private DJ master classes at W Barcelona). W Hotels is on track to have 75 hotels globally by the end of 2020.

To get into the island spirit, check out the W Ibiza-inspired playlist, created by the brand’s European Music Director, Kristina Dolgova, on Spotify today: http://whotels.ht/WIbizaPlaylist.

W Hotels launches FUEL Weekends

April 4, 2018

The following is a press release from W Hotels Worldwide:

Sweat it out. Soak it in. W Hotels Worldwide announced the next iteration of the brand’s unique take on fitness and wellness, FUEL weekends by W Hotels. By enlisting high-energy fitness experts to act as weekend workout guides – including Jason Wimberly, Joe Holder, Ashley Guarrasi, and Tara Stiles – W Hotels is launching next level, energy-soaked workout getaways in some of the most vibrant and inspiring destinations in the world. Kick box, then kick it up a notch. Work up a sweat, then party down. This is how W feeds guests’ passion for staying in shape, in style.

W always does things differently, and a workout is no exception,” said Anthony Ingham, W Hotels Worldwide Global Brand Leader. “FUEL weekends feature insider access to some of the best trainers in the world, coupled with the playfully luxe experience of W. We know wellness means more than just a good workout, and that’s why classes are offered alongside plenty of opportunities to retox in style, for a trip unlike any other.”

W is kicking off the 2018 FUEL lineup at W Punta de Mita, May 25 – May 28, 2018 for a three-day, three-night non-stop schedule where every moment has guests looking good and feeling better. W has been championing a “work hard play hard” mantra for years, under a unique spin on health and wellness the brand calls FUEL. These weekends will continue to expand the brand’s innovative philosophy with fitness fans around the world, providing guests with everything they need to look good, feel good, go longer, and stay later.

Detoxing at a FUEL weekend will mean a choice of well-rounded workouts with experts in multiple disciplines including yoga, boxing, surfing and HIIT sessions, all taught by energetic fitness masters. Classes at the inaugural weekend range from strength training with Jason Wimberly, Founder of THE WALL, to Boxing Cardio with Rumble Guru, Ashley Guarrasi, as well as getting runway ready with trainer, Joe Holder and striking some yoga poses with Yoga Rebel, Tara Stiles, of Strala Yoga fame. Guests will then go from “Om” to “Ahhh” with daily indulgences of locally-sourced healthy cuisine. The weekend will offer guests a taste of Nayarit-native dish preparations, curated by Chef Juan Guizzo, along with daily breakfasts, all poised to fuel the best workouts.

Then it’s time to retox – a chance for guests to play as hard as they work out. This FUEL weekend will include welcome cocktails and healthy light bites upon arrival. Treat yourself to a two- hour open bar, beats from world-class DJs like May Kwok, Alan Salomon and va$htie, a day time pool party and more. For guests looking for even more action, add-ons during the first FUEL weekend include mezcal tastings, ziplining, ATV adventures, on-site spa treatments, beachside activities inspired by the local culture and even surf lessons set on the sparkling coastline of the hotel. Guests can also head out to explore the local town of Sayulita, a nearby village backed by the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains.

This series is an addition to the brand’s worldwide FUEL offerings that connect guests with ways to stay fit while on the go. All 50+ W hotels offer classes, state-of-the-art FIT gyms and locally-inspired cuisine to keep guests feeling good and looking great. Guests can feel the burn during beachside sunrise yoga sessions at newly renovated W Fort Lauderdale, tone up with personal trainers at W Barcelona or learn the centuries-old art of Tai Chi at W Shanghai – The Bund.

In addition to the Memorial Day FUEL weekend at W Punta de Mita, W will host additional weekend-long events at W Verbier and W Dubai – The Palm later this year, with more destinations coming up for 2018 and beyond.

FUEL weekend at W Punta de Mita is bookable at: www.whotels.com/fuelweekends. Follow @WHotels on Twitter and Instagram for more updates and announcements.

About W Hotels Worldwide
Born from the bold attitude and 24/7 culture of New York City, W Hotels, part of Marriott International, Inc., has disrupted and redefined the hospitality scene for nearly two decades. Trailblazing its way around the globe, with more than 50 hotels, W Hotels defies expectations and breaks the norms of traditional luxury wherever the iconic W sign lands. With a mission to fuel guests’ lust for life, W ignites an obsessive desire to soak it in, live it up and hit repeat. The brand’s provocative design, iconic Whatever/Whenever service and buzzing Living Rooms create an experience that is often copied but never matched. Innovative, inspiring and infectious, the brand’s super-charged energy celebrates guests’ endless appetite to discover what’s new/next in each destination, to see more, feel more, go longer, stay later. W Hotels Worldwide is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Starwood Preferred Guest®. Members can now link accounts with Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. For more information on W Hotels, visit whotels.com/theangle or follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Moxy Hotels will open two new locations in New York City in 2018

March 20, 2018

Moxy Hotels

The following is a press release from Marriott International:

Moxy Hotels, Marriott International’s playful, experiential hotel brand for the next generation of travelers, expects to welcome two New York City hotels to its roster this year, bringing the brand to a total of three properties in the city by the end of 2018. Designed for both the young and the young-at-heart, Moxy made its Big Apple debut in September 2017 with the much-anticipated opening of Moxy Times Square. Moxy Downtown and Moxy Chelsea will fully embrace modern fun-hunting travelers with their spirit, style and affordable price points.

“These two new hotels will both have a distinct style and personality, reflective of the culturally-rich neighborhoods they are located in, giving locals and visitors alike more ways to play with us,” said Toni Stoeckl, Global Brand Leader and Vice President, Distinctive Select Service Brands, Marriott International.

The new-build, 30-story, 298-key Moxy Downtown, located just off Broadway and steps away from the World Trade Center, will radiate the neighborhood’s eclectic vibe and put travelers in the heart of the emerging Downtown scene when it opens in summer 2018. Developed by Mark Gordon of Tribeca Associates and designed by Stone Hill Taylor, travelers will be welcomed by the hotel’s dramatic 22-foot atrium lobby featuring a monumental 12ft x 21ft LED Wall. The LED Wall will illuminate Ann Street and serve as a virtual window into the activity on the hotel’s third floor “play space.” Designed to be the ultimate 24/7 neighborhood hangout spot for both day and night, this space will feature a unique array of work spaces, games and entertainment. Moxy Downtown’s food and beverage program will be run by a local F&B partner known for creating some of New York City’s favorite neighborhood bars and restaurants, and will feature bespoke cocktails, elevated bar fare and a tailored coffee program. Designed with a focus towards blending upgraded finishes and an efficient use of space, the hotel’s guestrooms will feature the latest in technology, floor-to-ceiling glass windows to highlight great views and thoughtful attention to detail throughout.

Sophisticated yet playful, hand-crafted yet modern, the 349-room Moxy Chelsea reimagines the urban jungle, blending botanically inspired design with Italian romance — welcome to the Flower District’s new secret garden. Rising 37 stories high into the New York City skyline, the micro-room, macro-amenity hotel, developed by Lightstone, marks the second collaboration between Yabu Pushelberg and Rockwell Group, the designers behind Moxy Times Square. The architecture, by Stonehill Taylor, complements the neighborhood with its raw, industrial façade and soaring, greenhouse-style atrium. Inside, guests are greeted by a lushly overgrown flower shop at the entrance, and a lively trattoria, pasticceria and café that fuse timeless Italian elegance with a modern sensibility. The second floor is devoted to live/work/play spaces, including a bar, meeting studios, co-working lounge, and profusely planted conservatory. Topping off the hotel is a glass-enclosed rooftop bar featuring views of the Empire State Building; at the touch of a button, retractable windows transform the lounge into an alfresco sky veranda. Guest rooms, adorned with floor to ceiling windows, are flooded with natural light and filled with whimsical details, while reflecting a careful consideration of space and functionality. This will be Lightstone’s second Moxy hotel opening in New York City, following the successful launch of Moxy Times Square.

Both hotels will have Moxy’s approachable price point, which allows guests to invest in the experiences they actually want, rather than paying for amenities that they don’t. Each hotel will offer mobile check-in/out, 24/7 grab-and-go F&B offerings, tech-enabled spaces, furiously free and fast Wi-Fi, stylish bedrooms featuring the brand’s signature open-storage concept for ultimate flexibility, and a spirited Moxy Crew.

“Moxy is designed to facilitate authentic experiences and touchpoints for the modern traveler, which means no two hotels are alike – they take on the personality and vibe of their surrounding neighborhoods,” added Stoeckl. “New York City encapsulates everything Moxy is about, and we’re really excited now to be able to offer a Moxy in the city for whatever type of experience Moxy’s fun-hunting travelers are looking for.”

Moxy Hotels debuted in 2014 with the opening of Moxy Milan, and has since grown to include 23 hotels across Europe, the United States and Asia Pacific. There are nearly 90 signed Moxy deals worldwide; of which 26 are in the U.S. These hotels are expected to open by the end of 2021. In 2018, the brand is expected to open in locations including Chicago, Washington DC, Memphis, Atlanta, and London.

About Moxy Hotels:
Moxy Hotels is Marriott International’s new millennial-focused brand that debuted in September 2014 with the opening of the Moxy Milan. A boutique-hotel concept for the next-Gen traveler, Moxy is a fresh and innovative brand combining stylish design and approachable service at an affordable price point. With tech-enabled rooms, vibrant lobby spaces and warm, modern service, Moxy aims to surprise travelers with a thoughtful, spirited and fun guest experience. Moxy Hotels is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®. Members can now link accounts with Starwood Preferred Guest® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. To learn more about Moxy Hotels, visit www.MoxyHotels.com.

Westin Hotels & Resorts announces Project Rise: ThreadForward to help donate pajamas to underprivileged children

March 15, 2018

child in pajamas — (Photo courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)

The following is a press release from Westin Hotels & Resorts:

Westin Hotels & Resorts today announced the launch of Project Rise: ThreadForward, an unprecedented sustainability program that collects, processes and reweaves hotel bed linens transforming them into thousands of pairs of children’s pajamas. The first-of-its-kind pajamas will be distributed to children in need, whose circumstances can contribute to shortened and more fragmented sleep. Beginning April 16^th, Westin will give the gift of better sleep beyond the brand’s hotels, in cities around the world: from New York and Toronto, to Mexico City and Cape Town, and will encourage guests to support by purchasing a pair of pajamas on westinstore.com to benefit the program.

“As people integrate wellness into their lifestyle more holistically on the road and at home, giving back has increasingly become important to their overall sense of well-being,” said Brian Povinelli, SVP & Global Brand Leader, Westin Hotels & Resorts. “Wellness is in the Westin brand’s DNA, and Project Rise: Thread Forward is evidence that we can empower the well-being of our guests and associates as well as make a difference in the communities around us – hopefully inspiring change in the industry as a whole.”

Last year Westin introduced a global campaign called Let’s Rise, taking on the distractions and unpredictability of travel and empowering people to regain control of their well-being when they need it most, while traveling. As part of the brand’s rally-cry, Westin looked to their associates for an idea to empower the communities in which they live and work. The brand launched a challenge, Project Rise, asking associates to submit those ideas through the lens of the Six Pillars of Well-being; one idea would be selected and solution funded by the brand. More than 325 associates from around the world submitted ideas; one inspired insight encouraged the brand to repurpose discarded bed linens that often don’t have a centralized recycling process or recipient.

Committed to helping guests get a good night’s sleep since the game-changing debut of the Heavenly Bed® almost 20 years ago, Westin saw an opportunity to not only create an innovative industry-first upcycling program, but also empower sleep in an entirely new way.

“Sleep continues to be the foundation of well-being,” asserted Charles Morin, PhD, President of World Sleep Society. “But despite this, one third of all adults and a majority of children are not getting enough sleep. Research suggests that, particularly for children, creating and preserving bedtime routines lead to more restorative sleep, which in turn improves physical and emotional well-being.” The simple act of putting on pajamas as part of a bedtime routine is one way to improve a child’s quality of sleep and cement long-term sleeping habits.

As a result of these insights, Westin tapped Clean the World, a leader in global health, best known for its soap recycling programs, and Divergent Energy, who sources the innovative technologies and solutions, to develop the hospitality industry’s first system to collect, process and reweave the discarded linens into a new fabric for pajamas. In just 5 months, 50 Westin hotels around the world submitted approximately 30,000 pounds of bed linens & terry to be sorted, broken down and reweaved into new material, using industry best practices in textile manufacturing. A new and proprietary upcycling process was developed specifically for this program to ensure the new fabric met both U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations and provided the comfort sought in children’s pajamas.

“Upcycling sheets into children’s pajamas has never been done before,” said Shawn Seipler, Founder and CEO, Clean the World. “As our partnership with Westin has grown over the past eight years through the bath & soap amenity program, we were excited when Westin came to us to help bring this vision to life. Westin’s Project Rise: ThreadForward program is a phenomenal effort to continue to improve children’s health and create a more sustainable future.”

Westin worked with San Francisco-based Venables Bell & Partners to conceive and design the pajamas, which feature the brand’s signature color palette, zest, mint and flax (grey) as well as a whimsical illustration of a child rising over a moon with a book – a nod to a better sleep empowering a better day. They will be created in sizes 2-8.

With Delivering Good and their network of community partners, Westin will begin donating the first 1500 pajamas next month to children in need, who are most prone to suffer sleep anxieties, in markets around the world.

“Our mission to fight poverty and deliver hope to people in need aligns perfectly with what Westin was aiming to achieve with Project Rise: ThreadForward,” said Lisa D. Gurwitch, CEO & President, Delivering Good. “We know that pajamas are among the most requested items of clothing sought by our charitable partners that support low-income households; and we are delighted to work with Westin, who shares our passion and commitment to lift communities and empower people to be their best selves.”

As the global demand for well-being continues to grow and more people integrate wellness into their lifestyle, a new trend has emerged. Increasingly people consider giving back as an important part of their wellness routine, along with sleeping more, eating well and exercising.

In a recent global study:

77% of global respondents say giving back enhances their overall well-being
Nearly 1 in 2 respondents in North America said it is very important to give back
80% of those surveyed globally have intentions to give back while traveling in the next 12 months
And while nearly 1 in 4 travelers surveyed have volunteered through their hotel, 89% of people globally are more likely to book a hotel that provides give-back opportunities.

In response, Westin has made it possible for guests to support Project Rise: ThreadForward as well. Beginning on April 16^th, the children’s pajamas will be retailed for USD $25.00 at Westinstore.com, and a portion of proceeds will go back to Delivering Good and continuing to support the efforts to give every child the opportunity to Sleep Well.

With its powerful penchant to give back, Westin continues to grow and evolve its programs and partnerships, addressing how wellness is integrated into consumers’ lives through the brand’s Six Pillars of Well-Being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. For more information about the Westin brand’s campaign: Let’s Rise, its commitment to sleep or to learn more about Project Rise: ThreadForward, please visit: www.westin.com/threadforward.

Study Methodology
This study is based on a survey conducted by STUDYLOGIC LLC via telephone of approximately 2,520 respondents ages 18 and older with household incomes of $50,000 or above from 4 different regions: North America, Latin America, Europe and AOA (Asia, Oceana and Africa). Interviews were conducted between January 24^th and January 31^st. The survey averaged 20 minutes in length and contains a margin of error of +/-3%.

About Westin Hotels & Resorts
Westin Hotels & Resorts, a leader in wellness and hospitality for more than a decade, empowers guests, associates and local communities to embrace well-being and be their best selves through the brand’s six pillars of Well-Being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. At more than 200 hotels and resorts in nearly 40 countries and territories, guests can experience wellness offerings that include the iconic Heavenly Bed, RunWESTIN program, TRX and Peloton fitness equipment and Westin Gear Lending with New Balance, in addition to delicious and nutritious SuperFoodsRx™ and more. To learn more, visit www.westin.com. Stay connected to Westin: @westin on Twitter and Instagram and facebook.com/Westin.

About World Sleep Society
World Sleep Day is organized by World Sleep Society, an international association whose mission is to advance sleep health worldwide. World Sleep Society promotes and encourages education, research and patient care, particularly in those parts of the world where the practice of sleep medicine is less developed. World Sleep Society currently represents over 900 individual healthcare providers and 31 regional sleep societies, totaling over 14,000 members. Learn more at WorldSleepSociety.org and WorldSleepDay.org. Find us on Twitter @_WorldSleep and facebook.com/WASMF.

About Clean the World
Clean the World is a social enterprise dedicated to the mission of saving millions of lives around the world while simultaneously diverting hotel waste from landfills. Clean the World operates soap recycling centers in Orlando, Las Vegas, Hong Kong, and Punta Cana and leads a “Global Hygiene Revolution” to distribute recycled soap and hygiene products from more than 5,000 hotel and resort partners. The organization benefits children and families in countries with a high pre-adolescent death rate due to acute respiratory infection (pneumonia) and diarrheal diseases (cholera) – which are two of the top killers of children under the age of five. Since 2009, more than 44 million bars of Clean the World soap have been distributed in over 127 countries. Clean the World has served over 10 million individuals through its soap distribution and hygiene education programs. In addition, Clean the World provides hygiene kits to relief organizations throughout North America. More information: CleanTheWorld.org.

About Delivering Good
Delivering Good is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization, with a mission to provide new merchandise to people who have been affected by poverty and tragedy. It is the charity of choice for new product donations made by hundreds of companies in the fashion, home and children’s industries. Donations include new clothing, books, shoes, toys, baby products, and other items for children and adults, and make certain that every needy recipient receives the fundamentals necessary for success. More information is online at Delivering-Good.org, and @DeliveringGood on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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.