Hotel Designs

The Dogus Group are delighted to announce the opening of their newest spa hotel, The D-Resort Gocek. The luxury property opens its doors for the first time this June, offering guests an enticing merger of natural and stunning Turkish coastline with modern and majestic interiors. The Dogus Group’s latest addition to their hotel collection can be found in the Turkish coastal village of Gocek, which offers delightful panoramic views of both the sea and dramatic forest-clad mountain rages. Visitors to D-Resort Gocek benefit from its secluded beaches whilst still having easy access to the marinas located in town. The area is rich in history and offers a mixture of picturesque beaches and islands along with a range of fascinating historical sites due to its location at the heart of ancient Lycia.

Despite the serenity found in the resort, accessibility is a key advantage. The hotel is a mere 20 minutes by car from Dalaman airport and only 4 hours flying time from London Gatwick. The beaches are only steps from the resort, which has the unique distinction of being the only beach fronted property in Gocek. The hotel also provides complimentary bikes for those who would like to explore further afield. Additionally D-Resort Gocek offers a range of fantastic water sports facilities as well as the option of chartering the hotel’s own magnificent Sunseeker speedboat for those more nautically inclined.

The D-Spa is the epitome of luxury, spanning 1500 meters2 and home to brand new state of the art Techno-Gym equipment. Furthermore it hosts a luxury hammam carved from the finest Turkish marble, private abachi saunas, vitality pools, single and double treatment rooms and an unparalleled range of other services. The spa uses only ESPA products and all therapists fully qualified ESPA representatives who offer a full range of body and beauty treatments. For those really looking to indulge in the tranquillity the resort offers, private massages are available along a secluded beach.

April Highlights

• RevPAR flatters to deceive in Budapest and Vienna
• Bleak picture for Berlin and Hamburg
• RevPAR up but GOPPAR down for Dublin

Brighton may have been trying to shrug off its image as “Chelsea by the Sea” since receiving City status in 2001. However, Brighton’s proximity to the capital is certainly of considerable benefit. The City, which welcomes 8.2 million visitors a year, a figure which dwarfs its 300,000 population, has numerous attractions. These include the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Pier, The Lanes, North Laine, Brighton Centre, Brighton Marina, Churchill Square Shopping Centre and Brighton Wheel. Exciting news is the i360 tower which we understand will be completed in 2015. Designed by Marks Barfield Architects, who conceived and designed the London Eye at 175 metres high, and with an observation pod rising to 141 metres, the i360 will be the highest observation tower outside of London, taller than the London Eye. It has also been announced that Alaska Development Consultants has revealed long speculated plans to transform the Hippodrome and Dukes Lane into an entertainment hub. The total cost is expected to be more than £18 million, and construction could start as early as this year should the planning application be successful. In addition to the many visitor attractions, the City hosts several major events including the Brighton Festival (the largest arts festival in England), Gay Pride, the London to Brighton Car Runs, and the new Brighton Marathon. Brighton is also the final destination of the London to Brighton Bike Ride (Europe’s largest charity cycling event). In September this year, the Tour of Britain cycle race will finish on the seafront (Sir Bradley Wiggins hopes to defend his title).

There is no doubt that the City has a vibrant scene, which is going from strength to strength and the leisure and hospitality market continues to be at the forefront of change and innovation.

HOTELS
Not surprisingly for one of the UK’s premier seaside resorts, the City of Brighton & Hove offers an eclectic mix and wealth of hotels, hostels and guest houses. The popularity of the City as a destination is demonstrated by performance results, with many businesses reporting 12 month occupancies upwards of 80%, much higher in some instances.

The City’s strong performance means it is a primary target location for many operators, evidenced by recent openings such as the 140 bedroom Ibis Hotel next to Brighton’s Railway Station and the 134 bedroom Brighton Student Hotel on Western Road. In addition, brands such as IHG’s boutique offering, Indigo, are rumoured to be looking at a site in the New England Quarter and other newly emerging groups are considering sites elsewhere in the City Centre.

The desirability of the City’s hotel sector is seen by both operators and investors, reflected by a spree of recent transactions (right).

Despite the difficult economic conditions that have prevailed during recent years, strong hotel trading performance suggests that guest demand continues to keep pace with supply, and recent transactional activity is testament to City’s appeal to operators and investors alike.

PUBS & BARS
Brighton offers something for everyone, ranging from the high street branded managed house operators such as Wetherspoons, Yates, All Bar One, Pitcher and Piano to iconic Victorian Inns and the rustic backstreet boozers, as well as the many quirky venues in between.

The market continues to be dominated by the independents, which is a large part of the City’s appeal, particularly to young professionals. Brighton & Hove City Council encourages diversity, ensuring an interesting mix of food and drink is available for both residents and visitors alike.

The City offers a number of established circuits, typically concentrated around the seafront, West Street, The Lanes and North Laine areas, generally within the prime city centre core. Prime opportunities that do arise often attract keen interest, for example, we recently sold the leasehold interest of OhSo Social, an independently operated restaurant/bar on the beach, to another Brighton operator off a guide price of £900,000.

However, with little or no movement in these core areas operators seeking representation in the City are looking further afield in areas that in the past were considered less salubrious, but are now experiencing the benefits of regeneration.

A good example of this is the London Road area, just to the north/east of the city centre core, which has experienced a handful of new openings and refurbishments. Loungers acquired a former blockbuster unit, Meat Liquor opened its first unit outside of London, the North Laine has been reopened by local multiple, InnBrighton, after several years of closure and Indigo has undertaken a major refurbishment of the Hare & Hounds, Preston Circus.

Brighton is fortunate to offer a number of home grown unbranded independent multiple leisure operators, including InnBrighton (48 sites), Indigo (18 sites) and Pleisure (8 sites), with others emerging and looking to grow.

The independent beer offering is a market which is also gathering pace, with the likes of InnBrighton and Indigo both moving into the craft beer revolution and exploring micro brewing alongside companies such as Craft Beer Company, Brighton Bier Company, Liberty Beer and BrewDog either acquiring or looking to acquire premises in the City.

The popularity of west Brighton/Hove is also attracting attention. Loungers acquired a second unit, a former Loch Fyne, City Pub Company has very recently acquired the Lion & Lobster on Sillwood Street for circa £4.5m and Brighton Bier Company, in a joint venture with Late Knights, have taken the Prince Arthur, just off Western Road.

RESTAURANTS
From veggie treats and breakfast brunches to fine dining and tasty value options, Brighton is bursting with every international cuisine.

There is a strong independent presence in Brighton, however expanding branded and corporate restaurant operators are experiencing the draw of the city, many identifying Brighton as a key target for expansion. A good example is Meat Liquor, whose chose Brighton as the location for its first site outside of Central London.

In addition are the expanding independent multiples. A good example is Ben McKellar, who has been operating in and around Brighton for many years. In addition to the original Gingerman Restaurant in Norfolk Square, he has added the Ginger Pig, Hove Street, Ginger Fox, Muddleswood Road and, most recently, the Ginger Dog in Kemp Town.

Another notable newcomer is Velo Café, a cycling café & repair workshop built in a new unit in The Level – a redeveloped park near the London Road regeneration area.

The city also boasts restaurants that have traded for decades, such as Havana, Duke Street; Pinocchio, New Road; Terre a Terre, East Street and Al Duomo by the Royal Pavilion, proving the longevity of trade that is possible in Brighton.

Not to be overlooked is Brighton Marina. Following the assignment of the former Strada unit on the boardwalk, the first Coast to Coast is now thriving and with Nandos taking on a previously independent bar/club, the Marina now arguably offers the highest density of corporate branded restaurants in the city.

Please visit www.fleurets.com/market-intel.html to access the complete Brighton Leisure Focus

Leading serviced apartment operator Staycity has signed a £17m deal giving the fast-expanding company 170 further apartments in Birmingham.The property, due to open in May 2015, will consist of one- and two-bedroom apartments in the city’s historic Jewellery Quarter.

Dublin-based Staycity currently operates 82 apartments in Birmingham’s Arcadian centre, near New Street Station.

Said CEO Tom Walsh: “We are delighted to announce this deal, which is an important part of our European expansion strategy. Birmingham is one of the most important business and leisure centres outside London. This property will give us a stronger foothold in the city as the demand for serviced apartments grows.”

Staycity has over 1,000 apartments across eight European cities including Dublin, Edinburgh, Liverpool, London Heathrow, Manchester, Paris and Amsterdam. The company is aiming to expand its operations to 5,000 apartments over the next five years.

Staycity serviced apartments typically accommodate from two to six people. The apartments have fully equipped kitchens with dining room/lounge and bathroom. All have 24-hour reception service.

Later this month the company will open 161 purpose-built apartments across two properties in Greenwich, London, with further new apartments to open in Venice and Lyon, France.

Staycity recently appointed former Accor chief operating officer Michael Flaxman as a non-executive director.

Accor has announced that its HotelInvest business has agreed to purchase two real-estate portfolios representing 86 and 11 hotels respectively (12,838 rooms) for a total consideration of about €900 million. “These transactions send a strong signal of our capability to rapidly implement the strategy of restructuring the HotelInvest portfolio,” said Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Accor. “They are fully aligned with our selective asset acquisition criteria: hotels located in key European cities and delivering excellent operating performance in our most profitable market segments”.

The first portfolio, representing 86 hotels and 11,286 rooms across Germany (67 hotels) and the Netherlands (19 hotels) has been operated by Accor since 2007 under variable-rent leases and the following brands: ibis (29 hotels), ibis budget (31 hotels), Mercure (17 hotels) and Novotel (9 hotels). The total consideration for this acquisition is €722 million. The sellers are two funds, Moor Park Fund I and II, advised by Moor Park Capital Partners, a pan-European real estate private equity investment advisory business.

Besides, Accor has entered into exclusive negotiations with Axa Real Estate for a second portfolio representing 11 hotels and 1,592 rooms in Switzerland. This portfolio has been operated by Accor since 2008 under variable-rent leases and the following brands: ibis (5 hotels), ibis budget (2 hotels), Novotel (3 hotels) and MGallery (1 hotel).

Both acquisitions will be accretive to Accor’s EBIT in 2014. Based on pro forma 2013 figures, the relative contribution of owned hotels to HotelInvest’s net operating income1 will increase by around fourteen points to 68%. One of the key objectives for HotelInvest, the leading hotel investor in Europe, is to raise this proportion to more than 75% over the medium term.

Completion of the acquisitions is subject to the usual conditions for this type of transaction, as well as to regulatory approval.

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants has recently announced a new partnership with Makar Properties to open its newest boutique hotel in Goleta, California, The Goodland. The Goodland marks Kimpton’s seventh property in Southern California and its second in Santa Barbara County, joining the Canary Hotel. The Goodland is owned by Makar Properties, a diversified real estate and investment company headquartered in Newport Beach. Neighbouring Santa Barbara and situated on Goleta’s Calle Real strip, the 158-room hotel will be a place of social engagement where visitors gather to enjoy the Coastal Californian lifestyle. The Goodland will feature a variety of nostalgic American amenities and programming including: a vintage house car, record concierge, curated art programme, lobby photo booth, Mexican Coca-Cola and Coronita upon arrival and eclectically coastal appointed guestrooms designed by Santa Monica-based Studio Collective.

“The Goodland has all the characteristics of a traditional surf lodge and will provide guests with culturally relevant arts, events and experiences making it a must-visit destination along the Southern California coast,” said General Manager Jeremy Wilhide. “It’s the perfect home base for those seeking a slow burn vibe and rich social scene, alongside the stylish and personal approach expected from the Kimpton brand.”

Under the helm of Executive Chef Derek Simcik, the hotel’s dining venues will spotlight simple but flavourful fare. Outpost at The Goodland, the hotel’s main restaurant, complemented by Good Bar, the hotel’s lobby bar, will feature menu items inspired by the diversity of the Southern California coast. In addition, The Goodland’s poolside service will match the vibrant outdoor scene. Poolside bar options will include specialty-crafted cocktails, buckets of beer and spiked-aqua frescas.
The Goodland will also feature a spa, movement studio and more than 4,500 square feet of indoor meeting space as well as pre-function space and an event lawn for weddings, musical performances and other social events.

“We’re thrilled to be expanding our footprint in Southern California with The Goodland,” said Kimpton Chief Executive Officer Michael Depatie. “Just a short distance from downtown Santa Barbara, Goleta is an emerging destination in and of itself, home to beautiful beaches and Fortune 500 companies alike. To be a part of this continued development is quite exciting and we look forward to helping to build further awareness for this ever popular Santa Barbara area destination.”

Kimpton was selected to manage and operate the hotel by Makar Properties. Founded by Paul Makarechian in 2001, Makar Properties has been involved in the development and asset management of an extensive portfolio of hotels and residential properties including St. Regis Monarch Beach in Dana Point, California and Korakia Pensione in Palm Springs.

“We selected Kimpton for this project because of its fantastic reputation,” said President and CEO Paul Makarechian. “The brand is the perfect partner for the stylish, fun and easy-going atmosphere we’re creating at The Goodland. We’re excited to have the Kimpton team make this hotel opening our most successful yet.”

Twenty years after the historic first universal elections in South Africa, the country’s largest city is experiencing a rebirth as an important business centre and a cosmopolitan destination with a wealth of leisure opportunities, and the new Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg, opening 1 December 2014, is at the heart of it all.Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg is just minutes from major business centres and tourist attractions. With 240-degree views across the city’s famed green canopy and the Johannesburg Zoo right next door, the Hotel is nestled among eight acres (three hectares) of lushly landscaped gardens cascading down a hillside that is less than 30 minutes from two major airports, including the largest and busiest in all of Africa.

Thus, Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff is ideally positioned as a gateway for international air travellers to explore the Sub Continent and beyond. Important game reserves are nearby, including Kruger National Park just five hours’ drive away, and 36 of South Africa’s top 100 golf courses are within an hour of the Hotel – some just minutes away. Open air markets, art galleries, hip restaurants and more await.

Introducing the New Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg
The Westcliff was originally conceived as a stately enclave for an exclusive clientele when it opened in the late 1990s. Under the guidance of Four Seasons and the vision of locally-based RSL Architects and JACKET INTERIORS, the former grande dame is getting a facelift in keeping with a modern African aesthetic – reflective of the dynamic city that surrounds it.

With 117 guest rooms and suites scattered through nine low rise buildings amid beautifully landscaped gardens, terraces and fountains, the mood is almost residential; a welcome respite from hectic business affairs and busy days exploring.

Yet the environment within is closely connected to the pulse of the city, perhaps most notably with its extensive contemporary African art collection. A carefully curated selection features paintings, prints, sculptures and mixed media by prominent artists including Helmut Starcke, Obie Oberholzer, Gawie Joubert, Saral Petrus, Diana Hyslop, Lehlogonolo Mashaba, Louis Olivier and the team of Arlene Amaler-Raviv & Dale Yudelman, among many others.

“The real difference that returning guests will notice is something they will feel rather than see, and that’s the caring, personal service for which Four Seasons is renowned all over the world,” says Christopher Rudolph, who grew up in Johannesburg, lived abroad and has now returned as the Hotel Manager.

A New Dining Destination in Johannesburg
Five all-new restaurants and lounges are preparing to welcome both local and international guests with an array of options to enjoy the finest cuisine, accompanied by the best wines from South Africa and the world. The culinary team is presided over by Executive Chef Dirk Gieselmann, a native of Germany and most recently of the three Michelin star L’Auberge de L’Ill in Illhaeusern, France. Passionate about seasonality and local provenance, Chef Gieselmann is currently foraging the farms and markets of the city and surrounding countryside, acquiring the best possible ingredients on which to base his menus.

The Hotel’s showpiece restaurant will be VIEW, conceived as a gallery of culinary art where Chef and his team will be at their most creative. A dramatic interior opens to an elegant terrace, where couples, business associates and close friends will indulge in the finest seafood and meats at lunch and dinner.

FLAMES will boast an expansive terrace and sunset views. As the name suggests, grilled specialties are on the menu, expertly paired with South African wines and local craft beers. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and cocktails will be served in addition to dinner.

As well as the larders, the wine cellars are also being stocked, with the country’s best regional bottles being laid down. Celebrating the marriage of the most interesting wines with culinary creations is THE CELLAR DOOR. This intimate venue will host wine tastings and other special events, and is available for private bookings for up to 20 guests.

All New: The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg
Housed in a completely new building designed to the company’s exacting standards, The Spa at Four Seasons will be an oasis of pampering and well-being amid the serenity of the Hotel’s gardens. Inspired by the nature that surrounds them, nine treatment rooms – including a couple’s suite – set the stage of expert massage, skin care and body treatments. Full facilities for men and women – both Hotel guests and day visitors – including luxe change rooms, saunas and steam rooms, as well as the outdoor Après-Spa lounge.

Close to eight acres of landscaped gardens offer winding jogging or walking paths, and the concierge team can also provide route maps through the park next door. Back at the Hotel, a fitness centre with all-new state-of-the-art equipment is open 24 hours, and an outdoor infinity lap pool complements the second swimming pool with its water feature and bubble bed.

Meet Me at Four Seasons
Function options at the hotel include 1,457 square metres (15,683 square feet) of naturally-lit event spaces, highlighted by the 615 square metre (6,620 square foot) Arcadia Ballroom. With panoramic views and its own terrace, the room is divisible and features a pre-function space. Thirteen additional rooms offer a choice of smaller venues, or a complete suite for a conference. With the weather pleasant year-round, 842 square metres or 9063 square feet of outdoor space offers a fresh alternative for receptions, and romantic backdrops for weddings.

For honeymooners fantasising about an African adventure, Four Seasons The Westcliff is the perfect place to begin married life before going on safari in South Africa and Botswana, or further afield at the Hotel’s sister property in the Serengeti, or perhaps jetting off to tropical bliss in Mauritius or Seychelles.

High quality bespoke cabinetwork made in the UK by RHA Production Ltd. The credenzas feature a high quality walnut timber finish, Calacutta D’Oro marble and a slim polished nickel frame.

These units have been designed to include adjustable internal shelving and NovaSuede lined drawers.

Contact RHA Furniture for more information or to discuss a project.

The St. Regis Chengdu has announced it is set to unveil in July 2014. Following the brand’s legacy and bespoke luxury, the hotel will be the 32nd St. Regis hotel worldwide, and the sixth in the Greater China region, following recent landmark openings in Tianjin, Sanya, Lhasa, and Shenzhen. The St. Regis Chengdu will set a new standard in Southwest China for bespoke service and refined elegance. With an exclusive address in the heart of Chengdu’s business district, the hotel is located just steps away from Tianfu Square and the Chun Xi Road high-end retail area. The 29-story St. Regis Chengdu is part of the new Huazhi Plaza, a mixed-use development comprised of a distinctive and iconic cluster of four elegant towers that will become a hub for residential, business, entertainment and shopping.

The St. Regis Chengdu creates a home for today’s entrepreneurial world traveler with a design style that infuses the Art Deco styling of the 1920’s – when the flagship St. Regis opened its doors in New York City and set a new hospitality standard – with traditional elements of Szechuan culture and the high-energy dynamism of Chengdu. The Art Deco styling is augmented with traditional Sichuanese accents, modern architecture elements and stunning pieces of art that are both custom-made and curated especially for the hotel. The detailing and styling is a catalyst between eras and cultures, offering East meet West philosophies and the fusion of classic elements with modern day luxury.

The St. Regis Chengdu will offer 279 sumptuously-appointed guestrooms and suites ranging from 65sqm to 325sqm – among the largest available in the city. In a nod to the city’s epicurean pedigree as UNESCO’s first City of Gastronomy in Asia – The St. Regis Chengdu will feature six distinct restaurants and lounges. These include: Social – signature all-day dining restaurant; Yan Ting –St. Regis’ specialty Chinese restaurant featuring Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine; Yun Fu – four distinct private dining rooms on Level 27; Decanter – Chengdu’s only dedicated wine bar offering an extensive selection of fine wine labels, liquors and aged cigars; Vantage XXVII – an outdoor sky bar with views of the spectacular city skyline; and Then Drawing Room – offering the legendary Bloody Mary and signature St. Regis rituals such as champagne sabering and afternoon tea.

The St. Regis Chengdu will also offer the signature St. Regis Butler Service for all guests, the first for any hotel in Chengdu. St. Regis Butler will provide 24-hour anticipatory service and stay customizations according to the specific needs, tastes and preferences of guests.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.® has recently announced the opening of Aloft Calgary University, the first of its cutting-edge Aloft brand hotels in western Canada. Owned by University Hotels Ltd., the hotel underwent a multi-million dollar transformation prior to conversion. Aloft Calgary University features an urban design aesthetic with 143 stylish guest rooms, 4,000 square feet of meeting space and a lively social atmosphere.Adjacent to the University of Calgary campus and McMahon Stadium, the hotel is within walking distance of the LRT line with direct access to downtown Calgary.

The hotel’s signature W XYZ® bar will offer a perfect place for guests to enjoy a refreshing cocktail and catch up-and-coming, local musicians that are part of Aloft’s notable Live at Aloft. Offerings unique to Aloft Calgary University will include a full service day spa, spin studio and speciality restaurant – a casual, fun eatery on the second level of the hotel.

Aloft Calgary University guest rooms will feature the brand’s ultra-comfortable signature platform bed, walk-in shower and custom bath amenities by Bliss® Spa. Free and fast WiFi, plug & play charging stations and links to the guest room’s 42” LCD TV help to maximize guests’ work and play. Additional facilities will include an indoor Splash pool, Re-charge 24-hour fitness centre and flexible meeting space-called Tactic-ideal for both business meetings and social gatherings. Tactic is outfitted with the latest in A/V technology, including a 50” flat screen with laptop connectivity.

Located in the lush Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve and surrounded by the sparkling Five Sisters waterfalls, GAÏA Riverlodge is one of Belize’s most celebrated ecotourist destinations. Escape to your private cabana, perched on the edge of a valley overlooking the Five Sisters waterfalls.

GAÏA Riverlodge offers 15 private cabanas featuring Belizean hardwoods, traditional bay leaf thatched roofs and richly varnished mahogany interiors. With panoramic windows or a private veranda with hammock, ceiling fans, a bathroom decorated with hand-painted Mexican tiles, beds with pillow top mattresses, and Matouk and Frette linens, your stay has all the comforts you desire.

Soak up expansive views from the wrap-around terrace at GAÏA Riverlodge’s restaurant and lounge, magically located directly above the falls. You’ll enjoy globally inspired cuisine prepared with locally sourced fruits and vegetables, and fresh seafood from the Carribean Sea.

Experience sumptous treatments and blissful relaxation at the newly opened Spa on-site. Natural ingredients from the Belizean jungle are infused in each treatment, such as the Banana Papaya facial, Sunset Aromatherapy Massage and Eco-calm facial.

Convenience is a gift bestowed by technology. It is readily offered by the smartphone, generously granted by the tablet, and amply provided by the digital camera. These labour saving devices have ushered in an age where convenience is no longer seen as a privilege, it is seen as a right. Pulling the plug
This right is not yet extended to the means of charging them however. Indeed, as technological devices proliferate daily in both variety and quantity, so too do the cumbersome charging devices that attend them. Everyone knows well the inconvenience of needing a separate charger for their satellite navigation device, e-reader, tablet, games controller; the list is endless.

For those at home it is tiresome, but for the traveller who must carry them all, it is a frustrating and strongly felt inconvenience. A recent Smart Brief poll revealed that nearly half of hotel guests travel with two devices while over a third travel with at least three or more. Not only must the globe trotter bring a family of chargers for these many gadgets but must also include in their luggage a horde of adapters to access the host nation’s power supply.

This inconvenience could be overlooked were accessing their gadgets not of the utmost importance for travellers. The 2013 Global hotel amenities survey asked 8,500 travellers from 28 countries which services they demanded from a hotel. Free wi-fi emerged as the most important amenity, beating free breakfasts, swimming pools, and free parking by a long way. Thus, being able to use their electronic devices is the greatest priority for travellers, and yet remains a tiring and difficult endeavour.

Adapting to change
Fortunately there is an answer and it is the USB charging module. As the internationally preferred method of charging devices, USB dissolves most differences of gadget or geography. Almost all smartphones, for example, employ micro USB charging connectors across the EU following a European Parliament drive for a common continental charging device.

Barbara Weiler, rapporteur for the committee behind the push for a universal charger, explained it was driven by an ambition “to put an end to cable chaos for mobile phones and tablet computers.” USB offers the perfect solution, requiring just one cable in place of clunky chargers or adapters. It is truly the champion of convenience.

What the customer wants
Hotels are no strangers to the concept of convenience. Perhaps more than any other establishment, they understand it as paramount to their business success as it is the very product they offer. Convenience is what the traveller demands from their temporary home and so it is what that home must excel in providing.

It follows then that they must offer USB charging. As revealed, access to personal electronic devices is the number one priority for guests and USB is the technology that makes this easy. Travellers can truly be offered no greater convenience in this regard than the ability to simply plug their devices into the wall without hassle or hindrance.

That such technology should be a fundamental consideration for all hotels is a sentiment echoed by leading industry specialists. Looking ahead to 2014, Deloitte’s president of Travel, Hospitality and Leisure, Adam Weissenberg, outlined the need for companies in the sector to leverage the power of technology to improve customer experience.

Foreseeing a year of potential renewed growth in the industry due to increased demand, Weissenberg warns it will be a tricky climate “where options are many and customer loyalty is at a premium.” He recommends hotels turn to technology to enhance the guest’s experience and in doing so, not only retain but increase business.

Capitalise on convenience
USB charging makes sense. It will enable hotels to emerge as true providers of convenience, differentiating them from the rest and encouraging brand loyalty in travellers. Charge ahead of the rest this year with USB.

A new 167-room hotel in the southern port city of Kochi, will increase Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio in India to three properties. The upscale hotel company of Swiss heritage presently operates Mövenpick Hotel Bangalore and have already announced plans for a spa resort in Dharamshala.Mövenpick Hotel Kochi, a contemporary hotel with futuristic design elements, is strategically located on the national highway bypass road around 6 kilometres from the city centre and 25 kilometres from Cochin International Airport. Among the six outlets count a speciality Keralite restaurant and a Pan-Asian dining venue, as well as a sky lounge bar and a modern pub. The hotel is scheduled to open towards the end of 2014.

Business facilities include an executive club lounge, complemented by meeting rooms and a banquet hall for 500 guests. Along with a trendy swimming pool area and health club, the landmark tower property will also be home to an impressive multi-level spa. An Ayurvedic treatment zone, yoga studio, reflexology chambers, hammam, whirlpool and salon will be highlights of the urban wellbeing destination.
Kochi is one of India’s most important seaports and widely regarded as the commercial capital of Kerala, which has seen GDP growth of over 8% during 2013. Tourism is one of the most important drivers of the economy.

The management agreement was signed with ITMA Hotels India Private Ltd, an associate company of Jomer Properties & Investments.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts entered India in 2011 with the opening of Mövenpick Hotel Bangalore, a contemporary business destination with several leisure, dining and entertainment facilities. The company also plans to open Mövenpick Dharamshala Resort & Spa, an exclusive 124-room resort in the Northern Indian Kangra Valley. Its magnificent Ayurvedic spa, along with spectacular views of the indigenous forest and Himalaya Mountains are set to be the hotel’s main attractions.

Michelin-starred Kenilworth chef Adam Bennett will be representing the UK at the world renowned Bocuse d’Or international culinary competition – with the backing of Birmingham business.Adam, formerly head chef at Simpsons in Edgbaston sailed through the European heats in Stockholm and will now represent the UK in the world final next January in Lyons. All his serving dishes were designed and produced by Birmingham-based luxury tableware manufacturer Heritage Collection who invested £50,000 and more than 500 hours of work to create the unique pieces.

And Adam has received further backing form University College Birmingham who spent a quarter of a million pounds on a Bocuse d’Or development kitchen to allow Adam and his team to practice their dishes.

Small Heath-based Heritage produced more than 100 pieces for Adam’s menu of Supreme of Swedish Coalfish with Seaweed Sauce and Mussel Ketchup, and Ballotine of Swedish Pork with Braised Trotter and Hock. The set included miniature hand-blown glass cloches, specially selected pieces of hand-crafted British oak, silver service platter and silver plated oak leaves. The specially commissioned items were designed by Heritage’s Nathalie McDonagh who said it was a privilege to work with Adam.

“The Bocuse d’Or is widely acknowledged as the biggest and most prestigious chefs’ competition in the world. It’s the World Cup of cooking. We have nothing but admiration for the time and dedication he has applied to the contest, and the Midlands can be proud of his achievements,” she said.

Adam Bennett, who trained under Anton Mosimann, Guy Lassausaie and Marc Meurin, is now chef director at The Cross in Kenilworth, a venue backed by Simpson’s owner Andreas Antona. In the 2013 Bocuse d’Or he achieved Britain’s best ever result by finishing fourth and winning the prize for Best Meat Course. He was also supported by Heritage for that competition.

Executive chairman of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts and supporter of the UK team, John Williams, who is also executive chef at The Ritz, said presentation was an important part of the Bocuse d’Or, with exacting standards, and the Heritage pieces enhanced the appearance of the dishes

“I have worked with Heritage for many, many years. They have great flair to produce some wonderful bespoke silver pieces,” he said.

Heritage Collection, established in 1976, manufactures luxury tableware for the world’s most iconic hotel and restaurant brands. The company has always maintained its core belief in British design and traditional manufacturing skills, but has also embraced cutting-edge technology. As a result it has developed a portfolio of luxurious tableware for clients including The Ritz, The Dorchester, the QE2 and Intercontinental Hotels.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. has signed a long term management agreement with a consortium led by Oberoi Realty and Sahana Group to open the first Ritz-Carlton in Mumbai, the entertainment, commercial and financial capital of India, and the second in the country following the recent opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore in Karnataka.The 238-room Ritz-Carlton will be located in Worli, the heart of central Mumbai, a thriving new business district with easy access to the international airport.

The newly built structure will be a beacon on the coastline of the Arabian Sea with magnificent views of the Mumbai skyline and is expected to open early 2017.

Designed as a tribute to modern India, The Ritz-Carlton, Mumbai will honor its traditional past by setting new standards in luxury, technology and service. It forms part of a mixed used development in an iconic high-rise tower with luxury residential spaces. A second tower has been designated for luxury residential condominiums managed by The Ritz-Carlton.

Architects, Kohn Pederson Fox, will imagine the new towering landmark of glass and steel while renowned interior designer, Tony Chi, will take inspiration from Indian culture to create sleek interiors, including luxurious accommodations and suites that offer a contemporary sense of place.

“We have been searching for the perfect location for a premier hotel in Mumbai for several years,” said Herve Humler, president and chief operating officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “This site offers everything hotel guests could want—a prime business location, stylish and contemporary design in this historically rich and vibrant city.”

Vikas Oberoi, Chairman and Managing Director of Oberoi Realty said: “Mumbai is one of the great gateways of the world and by partnering with The Ritz-Carlton, we continue to cement the reputation of the city on the world stage and within the local market. This leading global luxury hospitality brand will resonate strongly with guests both locally and overseas.”

The UK’s hotel sector recorded an encouraging start to 2014 with hotels in London and the provinces seeing an average rise in profitability of 10% in the first quarter of trading, the highest increase since the downturn.According to the latest quarterly Hotel Bulletin for Q1 2014, compiled by HVS, Zolfo Cooper and AM:PM, hotels in all 12 of the cities reviewed recorded a growth in RevPAR (revenue per available room) for the second consecutive quarter.

In London RevPAR increased by 6% compared with Q1 2013. For the first time since August 2013 London’s hotels saw profitability grow on an annual basis, despite comparators including the unprecedented profitability recorded during the 2012 Olympic games.

Outside London the 11 regional cities reviewed recorded an average RevPAR increase of 11%. The majority of cities recorded occupancy and rate improvements, a trend which has contributed to continued regional profitability growth.

The Hotel Bulletin, which tracks the performance, demand and supply of hotels across the 12 key UK cities, reports that hotels in Belfast, Glasgow and Aberdeen experienced the highest RevPAR growth.

Belfast’s hotels recorded RevPAR growth of 22% on the top of strong comparators in Q1 2013. The city received a significant amount of investment prior to the Centenary year of the sinking of the Titanic, including the development of the £97 million Titanic Belfast attraction.

Glasgow’s RevPAR increased by 19% in Q1 2014 compared with Q1 2013. Demand was bolstered by record conference bookings this year and the opening of the 12,000-seat SSE Arena in 2013.

“These results show that the UK’s hotels are back on track and experiencing sustained growth. While hotels in London fared well during the downturn, those in the provinces suffered considerably, particularly as conference business fell away alongside the leisure market. It’s encouraging that both markets are now experiencing growth and this is likely to continue throughout 2014,” commented HVS director Tim Smith.

Budget and higher-end hotels continue to dominate the UK’s new supply activity. The budget market, already the largest in the UK, represents 50% of the active pipeline in the UK, with the four and five star markets combined accounting for 39%. The UK’s five star sector is set to grow by some 4,000 rooms over the next three years.

The UK’s three-star hotels sector continues to lose favour. Despite having 30% of current supply, only 3% of the active pipeline is represented by three star properties. Budget offerings such as Hampton by Hilton and brands such as CitizenM are drawing investor attention away from this sector.

“The three-star market has been caught in the middle – being neither budget nor luxury – and has failed to reinvent itself sufficiently well to attract investor interest. While current activity lies mainly in the budget, boutique and luxury ends of the market, it needs a brave operator to attempt to reinvent the three-star sector,” added Tim Smith.

• Chinese tourists will spend £1bn in the UK by 2017, an increase of 84% from 2013
• Russia and UAE to enter top ten UK spenders’ league table by 2017
• Canadian and Dutch tourists pushed out of top 10 by new entrants
• US, German and French tourists will maintain top spender positions over next few years Spend on retail, hospitality and leisure is set to rocket as overseas visitors flock to the UK over the next few years, according to a new report from Barclays. The research, independently commissioned for Barclays’ Retail and Hospitality & Leisure banking teams, reveals that spending from foreign tourists is predicted to reach over £27 billion by 2017, an increase of 34% on 2013. Rapid growth in spend among tourists from emerging economies will be further boosted by loosening visa restrictions, and overseas visitors will deliver a significant boost to the economy this year and beyond.

Visitors from the US currently spend the most in the UK, followed by France and Germany and this spending pattern will continue through to 2017. However, emerging economies such as China, the UAE and Russia are set to outstrip them in growth terms owing to the increasing wealth of consumers in these countries, in particular their growing middle-classes. The UAE and Russia are set to break into the top ten nationalities to visit the UK by 2017 and tourists from China alone will spend over £1 billion in 2017, up by 84% from 2013.

Richard Lowe, Head of Retail & Wholesale, Barclays, commented: “Opportunities abound for both retailers and the leisure industry to capitalise on these growing tourist numbers and spend. Businesses putting in the time and effort to understand their client demographic and to talk to their audience through whatever channels they use, be it social media or more traditional, will carve out an advantage that will enable them to offer something more tailored for each nationality that visits our shores.

“For our retailers, it is also worth considering that British-made goods remain popular amongst overseas consumers, so it would be time well-spent evaluating how they market their products to audiences from overseas eager to snap up ‘Brand Britain’.”

The sectors that will benefit extensively from this rise in tourist spending are undoubtedly the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors, with both expected to boom. The retail sector is set to generate £9.3 billion from tourists in 2017, an increase of 36% from 2013. Expenditure within the fashion retail sector will increase by 38% alone, to £5.8 billion.

Spending on hotels, eating out and attractions will rise by 33% to £14.7 billion in 2017. Overseas visitors are set to spend £5.3 billion on eating out by 2017, up by 34%, with spend on leisure attractions increasing by 32% to £2 billion by 2017, and hotel accommodation attracting £7.3 billion in spend by 2017, an increase of 33%.

The Luxury Collection, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., announces that the famed European-inspired castle overlooking Dalian’s Xinghai Bay is undergoing a transformation to become The Castle Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dalian. Set to open in 2014, The Castle Hotel will join the legendary Astor Hotel in Tianjin, Twelve at Hengshan and The Hongta Hotel in Shanghai, and The Royal Begonia Resort in Sanya, as an enchanting and iconic landmark along the Dalian coast in Northern China.Originally built in 2002, the palatial Bavarian-style castle is in the final stages of a complete interior renovation by the Dalian Yifang Group. When it opens this summer, The Castle Hotel will be one of the few luxury hotels in Asia to be housed inside a castle, featuring 292 luxurious guest rooms and suites and 67 apartments – most of which offer stunning ocean views – along with a sophisticated collection of restaurants and lounges, including an authentic German beer café with home-brewed specialities.

A Contemporary Urban Retreat
The Castle Hotel is situated above Dalian on Lotus Mountain, surrounded by lush foliage, overlooking Xinghai Square as well as Xinghai Bay and the Yellow Sea. The Castle Hotel is also the starting point for the romantic Binhai Road, the coastal route that winds along China’s northern coast for 32 kilometres. For visitors new to the city, Dalian offers a unique blend of European, Russian, Japanese and traditional Chinese architecture reflecting the city’s fascinating history when its ports were used as an international trading hub during ancient times.

The exterior of The Castle Hotel in Dalian remains true to the original European-inspired architecture, which has long been a favourite icon for locals and visitors alike. The interior of the castle has been re-imagined by HBA Interior Design with an opulent and contemporary design that complements the city and the building’s European heritage as well as its new role as a modern, luxury hotel. The vibrant interiors feature rich stonework, handcrafted wood furnishings and soaring ceilings along with bright skylights, massive windows and intimate terraces overlooking Dalian and the sea.

The Castle Hotel features three restaurants and two lounges with creative and authentic cuisine options, including: Zhenbao, offering fresh Chinese seafood, and Collections, an all-day dining restaurant with an international menu. In a nod to Dalian’s rich European heritage, the Royal Cellar will feature home-brewed German beer and northern European specialities. The Castle Hotel also offers a spacious indoor swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness centre and a luxurious destination spa.

With its prime location, The Castle Hotel is an outstanding meeting and event venue offering over 2,600 square meters of meeting spaces, including a 1,400 square meter grand ballroom and 8 other function rooms; the 4,000 square meters open air rooftop garden provides an elegant space for memorable occasions from grand-scale weddings, to intimate cocktail parties, to important business gatherings.

DoubleTree by Hilton Milton Keynes, located within stadium:mk the home of MK Dons Football Club, is delighted to announce the opening of an additional 49 bedrooms, bringing the total room count for the hotel to 176. The new bedrooms include four outstanding family bedrooms plus one stylish suite.Family rooms offer privacy and space for adults and children alike, with two separate bedrooms – one fitted with a king-size bed and the other with two singles – each with its own Smart TV. The bedrooms are connected by a short hallway, ensuring that grown-ups are within easy-reach of their children.

The suite is furnished to a high specification. The bathroom features Jack and Jill sinks, a built in TV which can be enjoyed from the comfort of a Whirlpool bath. There is a stylish living area with a sofa bed and 42’’ SMART TV, convenient dressing area and separate sleeping area with its own 42’’ TV. Guests may also enjoy the acoustics of the Bose sound system.

The hotel’s future plans include the opening of The Terrace Bar, which is super-stylish inside and out. The Terrace Bar will specialise in international beers, fine wines and Champagnes, while the menu will feature simple and honest food. Guests can enjoy music, courtesy of the bar’s baby grand piano, whilst sipping their favourite tipple or indulge in a spot of al fresco dining on the terrace.

In addition, future plans for DoubleTree by Hilton Milton Keynes include a 360 degree wrap of bedrooms around all four stands at stadium:mk, in a move that will eventually bring the total number of bedrooms to more than 300. The hotel will also be expanding pitchside restaurant and bar with its fabulous daytime views over the stadium and the hotel gym will be relocating and doubling in size.

When it comes to events, DoubleTree by Hilton Milton Keynes is in a league of its own. With over 2,400 metres² of event space, built into the impressive stadium:mk, there are 17 meeting and event spaces, the largest of which can accommodate up to 1,000 delegates for a conference or 700 guests for a dinner. For larger events , the connected arena : stadiummk due to open Summer 2014 boasts a further 3,420m2 of multi-use space over three floors, in addition to that is the option to hire the pitch (closed football season only) and 30,700 seater stadium:mk.

Nielsen Stead, general manager for DoubleTree by Hilton Milton Keynes said “Since the hotel opened in September 2009 we have seen a huge increase in demand for bed nights in Milton Keynes. These additional rooms will allow us to better support our already successful conference and event business and drive awareness of the soon to open arena: stadiummk and of Milton Keynes as a primary destination for event organisers. We look forward to welcoming even more guests”

Travelodge has officially opened its first hotel in Chertsey as of the 29th May. The new 73-room hotel represents a £6 million investment, bringing the Company’s portfolio to 17 hotels in Surrey and 514 in total. This opening also marks the first branded value hotel opening in Chertsey and has created 13 new jobs within the community.The hotel was officially opened by the Mayor of Runnymede, Councillor Mrs Yvonna Lay and Travelodge’s Revenue Director, Tom Edwards.

Chertsey Travelodge is centrally located on Guildford Street and is within walking distance of the town’s railway station. The three storey hotel has been built on the former site of the office block, Riversdell House and is part of the ‘Town Centre Conservation Area’.

The hotel has been designed in the new modern Travelodge look and feel, which was designed by customers. Every spacious room features the luxurious bespoke king size Travelodge Dreamer bed and all family rooms include two truckle beds. The hotel also offers customers free wifi* and in-room toiletries.

In addition to this new hotel opening, Travelodge has also invested nearly a million pounds modernising six of its hotels within the Surrey area, in its new brand look and feel – so that more customers can experience the new fresh, modern Travelodge. This includes the following properties: Camberley, Camberley Central, Woking, Caterham Whytleafe, Epsom, Kingston Upon Thames, Kingston Upon Thames Central and Wimbledon Morden. This investment is part of a nationwide £57 million hotel modernisation programme. By autumn this year, over 80% of Travelodge hotels will incorporate the company’s new brand design.

Tom Edwards, Travelodge Revenue Director said: “We are delighted to be the UK’s first hotel chain to bring good value accommodation to Chertsey. This is a prime location for us and marks another step on our journey to build a new Travelodge that is Britain’s favourite hotel for value.

“Chertsey is a vital hub for business and tourism, and our new hotel, together with our ongoing modernisation programme, positions us well in Surrey, as the economy continues to strengthen.”

Chertsey Travelodge offers a range of rooms which include family, double and accessible. A Travelodge family room caters for either two adults and two children or three adults. Each room has en-suite facilities with eco-friendly showers, toiletries, a flat screen TV with 18 free digital channels, free tea and coffee making facilities and up to 30 minutes free Wi-Fi* and can purchase a 24 hour service for just £3.00

Earlier this month, Travelodge embarked on a strategy to become Britain’s favourite hotel for value by launching a new £25 million advertising campaign to inspire Britain to get up and go. The campaign, which is the company’s biggest advertising spend to date, features scenes shot across Britain and highlights Travelodge’s new look, which is featured in Chertsey Travelodge.

Hilton Worldwide has announced the launch of Hilton Jaipur, an upscale, full-service hotel located in the heart of Jaipur in Rajasthan, one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The hotel is minutes from famous attractions like the Hawa Mahal, City Palace and Albert Hall Museum and shopping and entertainment hubs including Johari and Bapu Bazaar. The hotel’s proximity to government establishments in Civil Lines, and business and commercial districts in Gopalpura Industrial Area and M.I. Road make it well-suited for business travellers as well. Featuring 10,000 square feet of flexible meetings and events space that includes a 21-foot high ballroom and an open-air patio, Hilton Jaipur also provides the ideal setting for exclusive business meetings as well as social gatherings and grand weddings. Owned by Fruitful Buildcon Private Limited and managed by Hilton Worldwide, Hilton Jaipur features rooms and suites that range in size from 360 square feet to 650 square feet, offering large living spaces and the complete range of facilities and services including signature Hilton Serenity Beds, ergonomic work areas and en suite four-fixture baths.

Dining options at the hotel are extensive as guests can enjoy a theatrical culinary experience with live cooking stations and a spectacular speciality Tandoor kitchen at Aurum, the stylish gold and copper themed all-day global cuisine restaurant. Guests are also able to relish the best of contemporary Indian cuisine at Chaandi, the exquisite Indian speciality restaurant that features an open kitchen and a choice of stunning al fresco poolside cabana seating in the evenings. Guests can unwind at Krystal, the chic lounge bar, and sample a range of craft beers, flight of spirits, fine wines and innovative cocktails.

An ideal venue for mid-sized and intimate meetings and social gatherings, Hilton Jaipur features a grand ballroom that is elegantly designed with warm colours, feature walls and striking light fixtures. The pre-function area leads to a versatile open-air patio. Additional facilities include a 24-hour Business Centre, a boardroom and two meeting rooms equipped with the latest in audiovisual technology.

A Marlow hotel (UK< Buckinghamshire) is undergoing a refurbishment following a £500,000 investment by its owners. Work has begun at the four-star Crowne Plaza Hotel in the town which will be given the renovation as part of a wider upgrade of its facilities. The project, which involves 48 individual developments throughout the hotel, includes upgraded facilities in its conference centre, health and fitness club and spa area as well as a new children’s activity centre. Among the upgrades are new state-of-the-art meeting facilities, air conditioning system, dance floor and fountains. Richard Storey, general manager at Crowne Plaza Marlow, said: “We’re investing in the region of half a million pounds to make over many areas of the hotel as part of our renovation project. “The investment includes a new relaxation zone and make-over for our Quad Beauty treatment rooms, as well as a new dry sauna and showers, upgrading changing rooms and soft furnishings throughout Quad Club. “In addition, our new children’s activity area in our extensive grounds has been a huge benefit to our leisure guests and is building on our reputation locally as a child friendly hotel.”

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has recently announced that the internationally-renowned Excelsior Hotel Gallia in Milan will join The Luxury Collection® portfolio. Owned by Katara Hospitality, Excelsior Hotel Gallia, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Milan will open this November following an extensive renovation. The opening will mark The Luxury Collection’s seventh hotel in Italy, as the brand remains on track to surpass 100 hotels globally in the next five years. Located in the Piazza Duca d’Aosta, Excelsior Hotel Gallia opened in 1932 in central Milan as one of the city’s most prestigious hotels. Now undergoing a meticulous renovation and strategic expansion, the hotel will return its original grandeur where Milan’s most fashionable mix and mingle. Marrying contemporary design with the Belle Époque architectural style, the hotel’s new architecture and design concept – led by Studio Marco Piva – has already won an Italian tourism industry award*, recognising its outstanding combination of historical and contemporary elements.

The hotel will offer 235 elegant guest rooms and suites, a signature restaurant and a roof-top bar with panoramic views of the city, an elegant lounge bar and cigar room, plus 1,000 square metres of wellness facilities including a spa, indoor swimming pool and fitness centre. Excelsior Hotel Gallia will also offer unparalleled event and meeting spaces for special celebrations including a congress centre spanning more than 1,000 square metres and comprising two ballrooms, six meeting rooms and a business centre.

Starwood currently has 21 hotels in Italy, representing five of its lifestyle brands – St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Sheraton, Westin and Four Points by Sheraton. In Milan, the company is represented by The Westin Palace, Sheraton Diana Majestic, Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel & Conference Centre and Four Points by Sheraton Milan, and is set to launch W Milan in 2016. Last year, The Luxury Collection restored and reopened The Gritti Palace in Venice, enhanced the public spaces and guest accommodations including the addition of unique suites at Hotel Danieli in Venice and introduced new villas to Hotel Pitrizza and Hotel Romazzino in Costa Smeralda in Sardinia.

Katara Hospitality is a global hotel owner, developer and operator with a collection of iconic hotels in key markets across Europe, Africa and Asia.

*The “Tourism for Italy” award in the “New Hospitality Structures” category was announced at the Expo Italia Real Estate exhibition in Milan and accepted by Studio Marco Piva, the architecture and design firm overseeing the hotel refurbishment.

Melbourne is an Australian oasis of historical architecture in this new country, and the National Trust of Australia listed Hotel Windsor is one of the finest examples around. The Windsor opened its doors as ‘The Grand’ and reflected Melbourne’s confidence in the future at a time when the Great Exhibition took place and the city was a global commercial centre. Charles Webb was commissioned in 1882 to design the Victorian landmark that was to offer the most stylish and luxurious accommodation in Melbourne Indeed the first thing that strikes you about the Hotel Windsor is its age, in a country where very few things are older than my great grandparents. The oldest remaining of Australia’s Grand Hotels, the main building of the Hotel Windsor was built in 1883 during the boom times of the Australian gold rush, at the height of Victorian architecture and style. Pleasantly welcomed and encouraged in by the cheerful doorman, you emerge beneath the central staircase, complete with its original tile mosaics which were rediscovered beneath the carpet during the renovations in the 1980s.

Turning to the right to find reception and the Business Centre, the reception lounge immaculately kept but the styling is beginning to look a little tired. The Hotel has plans to remedy this, however, with an extensive restoration and redevelopment of the hotel planned between November 2014 and 2017.

One of Vietnam’s most historic hospitality establishments is getting a new face this summer, as the Caravelle Hotel embarks on its most significant renovation in 15 years. Situated for 55 years on a prime corner of bustling Lam Son Square in downtown Saigon, the Caravelle began the initial phase of a property-wide renovation May 12, with its ground-floor lobby, café lounge and seafood buffet restaurant.

During the first round of improvements, scheduled to run until the end of August 2014, the Caravelle’s front desk operations and Nineteen Restaurant will be relocated to the hotel’s third floor. By September, guests and local residents will be greeted by a completely redesigned reception and an expanded lobby cafe featuring a champagne corner and tapas kitchen.

The announcement of the Caravelle’s renovations coincides with the hotel’s first soft opening in May 1959. The entire spate of changes, which will be done in four phases, are targeted for completion by mid-2016. The second phase will see upgrades in all the hotel’s guestrooms.

The Caravelle rose to prominence in the 60s and 70s as the preferred haven of international media corps covering the war. CBS News staffed its bureau on the hotel’s third floor. Such journalistic luminaries as Walter Cronkite, Malcolm Browne and Peter Arnett frequented the hotel and its landmark rooftop bar throughout the war.

Within the past four years, the Caravelle has received ISO 14001:2004 certification, EarthCheck Silver Certification, Vietnam’s Green Lotus Certification, and most recently, the ASEAN Green Hotel Award for 2014.

Renaissance Hotels has announced that one of Denver’s most iconic structures, the historic Colorado National Bank building, has reopened its doors as the new 230-room Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Colorado National Bank building was designed in 1915 by famed Denver architects William and Arthur Fisher. Originally erected as a four-story building on the corner of 17th and Champa Streets in downtown Denver, the area was then deemed the “Wall Street of the Rockies.” The building’s neo-classical, Greek revival architecture is highlighted through its towering white exterior columns and walls, created with marble from the Colorado Yule Marble Company, the same marble used to build the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. Large monogrammed bronze doors open to the three-story interior atrium, constructed with marble flooring, ornate bronze accents and the most secure vaults in existence at the time – details that remain as part of the hotel’s design experience.

Embracing the spirit of the building’s construction in the early 20th century, the hotel showcases various historic elements juxtaposed with sophisticated accommodations and stylish design. Sixteen murals, originally painted for the Colorado National Bank in 1925 by iconic western muralist Allen Tupper True, were restored in the hotel’s grand lobby. Denver-based NINE dot ARTS curated a collection of original modern artwork for the hotel, including several signature pieces designed to highlight and complement the historic murals, each from an emerging Colorado-based artist or local gallery. The hotel is also home to a history wall, showcasing a detailed explanation of the True murals, as well as artifacts, mementos, architectural imagery and photos from the bank’s storied past.

A complimentary interactive walking tour adds to the one-of-a-kind experience offered within the hotel, available via smartphone to guests and locals alike. The brief cultural tour of the hotel will provide users with information on everything from the artwork – both historic and modern – to the history of banking in Colorado and the related notable elements still viewable in the building. It will also offer information on the hotel’s unique culinary offerings including the cocktails and dishes available onsite that use local ingredients or spirits.

The hotel’s original restaurant concept, range, features “new American West” cuisine incorporating ingredients and techniques unique to the Rocky Mountain West. Techniques focus on grilling, smoking, wood oven roasting, cast iron sautéing, pickling and preserving. Ingredients will be largely local with a focus on all-natural grass-fed meats, wild game, sustainable seafood, local creamery cheeses, seasonal produce and more. The Teller Bar, located in the hotel’s lobby, and aptly named for the Bank tellers who once stood where the bar is now situated, will feature small bites, craft cocktails and local beers, includingCountinghouse, a Pre-Prohibition Style Cream Ale created specially for the property by Denver-based Former Future, a craft brewery that recreates historic beer recipes by combining them with cutting-edge techniques, to create delicious and unique brews. The brew, named for the bank that originally occupied the building, is only available at The Teller Bar, range and the brewer’s local Denver tap room.

For those interested in booking private events at the property, the Renaissance Denver Downtown offers 6,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, which most notably includes three of the building’s original bank vaults, complete with original 33-inch thick, 60,000-lb. steel safe doors.

From the largest concentration of Mid-Century Modern architecture to one of the most highly-anticipated resort openings in California, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company L.L.C. unveils a new level of chic in the destination of Palm Springs, with The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. A mere two hours from the world-renowned destinations of Los Angeles and San Diego, the desert resort is perched on a 650-foot bluff offering sweeping vistas and is enveloped by the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountain ranges overlooking the Coachella Valley. The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage has been designed in homage to Southern California’s indoor/outdoor lifestyle and it presents a spectacular sense of place and authenticity found among few luxury resorts. Unparalleled panoramic views from a serene hilltop location, a pristine indigenous landscape, integrated water features, and brilliant fire and light attractions complement the resort’s 244 spacious guest rooms. Nearly all feature large patios and terraces, some with their own fire pits and views of the dramatic mountain ranges.

The 25,000-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Spa, Rancho Mirage lies at the heart of the resort’s free-standing, two-story spa lifestyle complex. The contemporary indoor/outdoor retreat features 15 opulent treatment rooms, many with private terraces, a complete Fitness Center, movement studios, private whirlpools, rain and Vichy showers, eucalyptus-infused steam and sauna facilities, an outdoor meditation mesa, and an outdoor co-ed whirlpool with waterfall and mountain views. An extensive selection of indoor and outdoor indulgences is available, highlighted by the use of innovative and exclusive skin care technologies, facials, massage, body treatments and the signature Hammock Massage and black diamond dust Rat Pack Facial for gentlemen, both debuting this summer.

State Fare Bar & Kitchen presents the best of California in a relaxed, multi-setting dining environment which showcases a chefs’ display kitchen, interactive market table, outdoor terraces located just off the restaurant with striking valley views, a cozy fireplace “snug,” tableside cocktail trolley service in the bar, walk-in red and white wine rooms and artisanal California menus and ingredients.

Additional resort amenities include three swimming pools, a comprehensive Ritz Kids program and multi-room Ritz Kids center with its own children’s movie theatre, 16,000 square-feet of contemporary indoor meeting space, and 15,000 square-feet of outdoor event space incorporating two lush, cliff-side lawns.

For golf enthusiasts, The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage has secured guest access to premier courses and clubs in the Valley, while nearby tennis, hiking on 20 miles of mountain trails, and luxury shopping and cultural experiences also may be enjoyed within minutes of the luxurious new retreat.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®) has announced another step forward in the UK & Ireland with the signing of three more Holiday Inn Express® hotels: Holiday Inn Express® Grimsby, Holiday Inn Express® Dublin – City Centre and Holiday Inn Express® Middlesbrough – Centre Square. The Holiday Inn Express brand is leading the company’s growth in this priority market.The first of the three to open its doors (towards the end of 2015) will be Holiday Inn Express Grimsby. The 80-room new build property will operate under a franchise agreement with Brayford Hotels. The hotel will be centrally located in the town of Grimsby nearby the main railway station.
Based in Ireland’s capital, the next hotel to open in the spring of 2016 is Holiday Inn Express Dublin – City Centre. The 198-room conversion property will operate under a franchise agreement with existing IHG owner Findlater House Ltd. The hotel will be located in the heart of Dublin’s shopping district on O’Connell Street and is well positioned to attract a healthy mix of business and leisure travellers.

Also due to open in 2016 is Holiday Inn Express Middlesbrough – Centre Square. The property will be converted from an existing office building and will emerge as a 138-room Holiday Inn Express and operate under a franchise agreement with Sherland Property OpCo Limited. Located on the main square in the heart of Middlesbrough town centre, the hotel will be close to local attractions such as Middlesbrough Town Hall, Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art and Cleveland Centre shopping mall.

Philip Lassman, Director of Development UK and Ireland, IHG said: “Holiday Inn Express is one of the fastest growing brands in the industry and the brand is certainly doing really well in Europe. The brand offers friendly efficient service, comfortable rooms and a free breakfast – everything a guest needs and nothing they don’t. It’s truly ideal for meeting the needs of corporate and leisure travellers typically taking short weekend breaks and business trips in this part of the world.”

Richard Farrar, Director of Leaf Hospitality, the company managing Holiday Inn Express Grimsby on behalf of Brayford Hotels commented: “Brayford Hotels is delighted to be adding Holiday Inn Express Grimsby to their portfolio. We were all determined to build a quality branded hotel the moment the site was acquired and we’ll do just that over the coming twelve months. We look forward to making the hotel a successful local business – bringing jobs, investment and a quality brand to Grimsby.”

Sunil Joginpally, Owner of Findlater House Ltd and Holiday Inn Express Dublin – City Centre commented: “We’re really excited to be bringing the Holiday Inn Express brand to Dublin’s vibrant town centre. We couldn’t have asked for a better location. We’re looking forward to welcoming our guests and offering them a comfortable stay at great value in Ireland’s capital.”

Mark Ashall, Director of Ashall Projects, the property development company undertaking the project, commented; “We are delighted to have secured the opportunity to refurbish this building and contribute to the regeneration of the centre of Middlesbrough by welcoming Holiday Inn Express to the town. Bringing this project to fruition has involved a series of challenges and we would like to record our appreciation of the work undertaken by the professional team and everyone else involved in order to overcome them.”

DoubleTree by Hilton and Hilton Worldwide has recently announced the opening of Waterstone Resort & Marina Boca Raton – a DoubleTree by Hilton. Ideally located just 25 miles from both Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport and Palm Beach International Airport, the stylishly refurbished 139-room hotel is only 300 yards from the Atlantic Ocean and overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway. The hotel is owned and operated by AWH Partners, LLC and managed by Spire Hospitality.Waterstone Resort & Marina Boca Raton – a DoubleTree by Hilton opens following a multi-million dollar renovation of the former Boca Raton Bridge Hotel, and debuts a contemporary new design blending grand, opulent Floridian style with modern coastal design to create the perfect escape. Guests will enjoy custom-made furnishings and fabrics, sophisticated local artwork and cool, contemporary water and stone accents incorporated throughout the hotel’s design. All guest rooms and suites boast a private balcony with sprawling waterfront views, including an elite Hilton HHonors floor reserved for Gold and Diamond HHonors members.

Combining style with convenience, each room offers modern amenities including a 37-inch HDTV, an alarm clock with MP3 connection, a mini-refrigerator and complimentary WiFi access. Guests may work out in the 24-hour fitness centre featuring state-of-the-art Precor® equipment or relax in the private swimming pool or adjoining waterfront promenade.

Dining options include Boca Landing, a modern and chic restaurant offering fresh, local seafood and Waterstone Bar & Grille, an indulgent poolside restaurant offering a Latin/tropical menu and an assortment of energizing beverages in a unique “dock-to-dine” setting.

Ideal for weddings, parties and special occasions, the hotel offers 8,500 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting and event space to accommodate up to 200 guests. A penthouse-level function room is perfectly-suited for business meetings and intimate gatherings, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway and the city of Boca Raton.

Accor and Moorfield Group (Moorfield), one of the UK’s leading real estate and real estate-related private equity fund manager, are pleased to announce the addition of three hotels to the MGallery Collection and the creation of six flagship hotels for the Mercure brand in the UK. Located in Windsor, Cheltenham and Aberdeen, the three new members for the MGallery Collection have been carefully handpicked as prime examples of the upscale brand. They will strengthen the presence of the boutique brand across the UK and join the stunning Francis Hotel in Bath, making a total of four hotels in the MGallery Collection in the UK.

The MGallery Collection is aimed at a demanding, pleasure-seeking clientele of experienced travelers and includes 70 hotels in 22 countries across the world, each with a distinct personality and story, shaped by history, location, vision and design. Additions to the MGallery Collection are made by finding properties that meet the brand’s rigorous criteria of excellence and, above all, offer a truly unique guest experience thanks to the character and style of each hotel.

The additions demonstrate the exciting momentum of the MGallery Collection in the UK which aims to increase its footprint to ten carefully selected hotels in key leisure locations.

In addition to the MGallery properties, an accelerated renovation programme will see the establishment of six flagship hotels for the Mercure brand in Bristol Holland House Hotel and Spa; Cardiff Holland House Hotel and Spa; Oxford Eastgate Hotel, Sheffield St.Paul’s Hotel and Spa; Exeter Southgate Hotel and Box Hill Burford Bridge Hotel. The renovations of all six properties will commence in 2014 and will incorporate Mercure’s innovative public area concept.

These properties will sit alongside the existing flagship Mercure London Bridge, strengthening the brand’s leading position in the UK mid-scale sector and reinforcing its status as, “the UK’s best mid-scale brand” as voted by the British Travel Awards and Business Travel Awards.

This expansion of Accor’s hotel portfolio coincides with the extension of the Company’s management contract with Moorfield until 2032. Accor has operated 24 hotels in the UK for Moorfield since 2007, and the portfolio has enjoyed a strong performance in recent years, with RevPAR growth -significantly above the UK industry benchmark. The three new members of the MGallery Collection and six Mercure hotels are already part of the existing 24-hotel Moorfield portfolio.

The extension of this agreement marks a continuation of Accor’s long-term relationship with Moorfield and demonstrates the complementary services and expertise offered by both companies. Accor’s HotelServices offering, backed by the Group’s long track record of operational excellence and strong stable of brands, combined with Moorfield’s depth of knowledge in financing real estate and operational management makes for a robust partnership.

Thomas Dubaere, Managing Director, Accor UK & Ireland, commented:

“With three new elegant hotels in the MGallery Collection and six flagship hotels for Mercure, we are really proving the strength of our brands in the UK, and we are delighted to be working on this project alongside our long-term partner Moorfield. Accor’s HotelServices division will be dedicated to operating these hotels, and our expert offering means that we deliver real value for owners and investors. We are looking forward to continuing our work with Moorfield and deploying our industry expertise and leading brands to drive further growth.”

Jonathan Sheard, SVP Operations Luxury, Upscale & Midscale Hotels, Accor UK & Ireland added: “The further roll out of the innovative lobby concept for the Mercure brand proves its success at meeting new customer expectations and behaviour. We are delighted to see the MGallery Collection increase its footprint in the UK with properties that totally exemplify the unique personality of this brand. The rapid renovation program will see the six Mercure hotels and additions to the MGallery Collection, completed in 2015.”

Heiko Figge, Head of Operational Management at Moorfield, added: “During the last six years we have enjoyed a successful partnership with Accor. The combination of Moorfield’s expertise in financing, real estate and operational management has been complemented by Accor’s deep knowledge of the hospitality industry and its track record of operational excellence. We are delighted to be extending our relationship with Accor in the UK and look forward to the portfolio’s continued outperformance.”

From the Canadian Hotel Investment Conference in Toronto, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced that it will expand its Canadian portfolio to 70 hotels within the next 12 months. The Aloft Calgary University, Starwood’s first Aloft hotel in Western Canada, opened last month, following the February opening of Four Points Waterloo-Kitchener Hotel & Suites. The momentum continues with the upcoming openings of Four Points Regina, Four Points Surrey, Four Points Moncton and the Element Vancouver Metrotown. This activity comes after a strong 2013, which included the openings of Four Points Edmonton International Airport, Four Points Kelowna Airport, Four Points Edmundston and Element Vaughan Southwest, maintaining Canada’s position as Starwood’s 2nd largest market outside the U.S. Simon Turner, President of Global Development for Starwood Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are continuing to see rising demand for development in both secondary and tertiary markets across Canada, fuelled by strong interest in our globally recognized and admired brands and the ability to tap into Starwood’s strong distribution network and loyalty program. Our solid portfolio of 66 hotels in the country across seven of our brands positions us well for continued growth, particularly in the mid-market segment where we are seeing a lot of traction.”

Specialty Select Brands Maintain Upward Momentum for Starwood
Starwood’s Speciality Select Brands (SSB) are continuing to drive positive momentum and fuelling growth across the country, underscoring the company’s long-term development strategy to grow its Aloft, Element and Four Points by Sheraton brands, increasingly in secondary and tertiary cities where there is strong demand for domestic business travel. Currently, Starwood has 30 hotels under these three brands across Canada, the largest SSB portfolio outside of the U.S., with plans to grow to 35 operating hotels by the end of first quarter 2015.

Four Points is Starwood’s most prolific brand in Canada with 27 hotels. Boasting the second largest global pipeline of all of Starwood’s brands, Four Points has proven to be a hit with travellers in markets worldwide and is a key player in a new generation of mid-market hotels delivering honest, uncomplicated comfort and exceptional guest service. The company has recently signed agreements for two new hotels, including Four Points Estevan, SK. and Four Points Lloydminster, SK.

Scott Duff, Sr. Director Development – Canada & Alaska, said: “We are pro-actively looking to increase our portfolio throughout Canada with the right partners, creating the right properties, in the right places. Our agile development approach allows us to adapt our growth strategies based on specific geographies and brand needs for both new development and conversions, where we are seeing strong interest.”

Starwood’s latest brand innovation, Element made a strong début in Canada in June 2013 in Vaughan, Ontario, quickly becoming a market leader on TripAdvisor against a strong competitive set. Canada’s second Element, Element Vancouver Metrotown is progressing nicely towards its opening in the first quarter of next year with two additional Western Canada Element hotels slated to break ground this year – Element Calgary Airport and Element Edmonton West.

Starwood’s innovative Aloft brand recently entered Western Canada with the opening of Aloft Calgary University. The hotel, which was a conversion, marked the third Aloft in Canada joining Aloft Montreal Airport and Aloft Vaughan Mills. Industry changing initiatives in music, design, and technology have positioned Aloft as a must-have brand for the next generation of travellers.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.® has announced that its fast-growing Aloft brand has embarked on an adaptive re-use project in downtown Little Rock, Arkansas. Aloft Little Rock Downtown will open in early 2016 as part of a mixed-use development that will bring new life to the historic Boyle Building on Capitol and Main Streets. Owned by Chi Hotel Group, the new Aloft will feature 140 spacious, loft-like rooms, forward-thinking technology and innovative programming. It will be Starwood’s first hotel to open in Little Rock. First opened as the State National Bank Building in 1909, the 12-story Boyle Building will be transformed into a mixed-use development housing Aloft Little Rock Downtown, as well as ground-floor retail, a high-end restaurant and coffee shop. This project is part of the city’s revitalization of the Capitol-Main Historic District.

Aloft Little Rock Downtown is one of several adaptive re-use projects, joining Aloft Orlando Downtown, Aloft Tulsa Downtown, Aloft Miami-Brickell, Aloft New Orleans Downtown and the award-winning Aloft Dallas Downtown in addition to two new projects in 2014.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Inc. announces its debut in Ajman with the opening of Ajman Saray, a Luxury Collection Resort, Ajman in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With this opening, Starwood expands its footprint in the UAE where it now operates 23 hotels and resorts, including three under The Luxury Collection brand. Idyllically situated along a natural stretch of pristine beach a short distance from Dubai and Sharjah international airports, Ajman Saray features 205 guestrooms and suites with sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf. The exquisite Royal Suite, for instance, boasts an expansive private terrace with lofty sea views. Spanning 193 square metres, this presidential suite offers a luxurious living room with Arabian-inspired patterns, a separate bedroom, dining room, private study and a spa treatment room. Throughout the hotel, the refined palatial Arabian architecture and interior design draws inspiration from the natural beauty of the Emirate brought to life through Mashrabiya motifs and intricate Zellij tiles as well as lush courtyards, tranquil oases and cooling fountains.

Ajman Saray features five restaurants and lounges, each offering a distinct epicurean experience. This includes Mejhana, a specialty restaurant focused on authentic Middle Eastern delicacies and Safi Restaurant & Bar, a contemporary seafood restaurant with views of the pool and gardens. Located at the heart of the resort, Al Shorfa provides an ideal space to mix and meet for breakfast while Escape, an equestrian-inspired lounge, is perfect for just that. Vista, the resort’s all-day dining venue, serves Mediterranean cuisine with live cooking stations, while Bab Al Bahar beach bar and grill offers a relaxed ambiance with a DJ playing in the evenings.

An ideal destination for business travellers and families alike, Ajman Saray offers a range of leisure and meeting facilities. The UAE’s first GOCO Spa provides the ultimate destination for relaxation and rejuvenation and features 17 treatment rooms across 1,250 square metres. Other leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool and private white sandy beach, as well as a range of water sport activities, a fully-equipped fitness centre and a dedicated children’s club. Spanning nearly 1,000 square metres, the meeting and event space includes six meeting rooms and an opulent ballroom, ideal for corporate events and opulent weddings.

Hilton Vienna Plaza is currently undergoing extensive renovation as part of a €20 million modernisation that will see the entire hotel transformed. Scheduled for completion in September 2014, the re-design includes all 254 rooms and suites at the hotel and a fresh approach to service and service delivery. Currently closed for the renovation, as of June 6th, 2014 the hotel looks forward to welcoming guests to the new Hilton Vienna Plaza.Robert Angell Design International, the prestigious London-based design studio, has overseen the new interior design of the hotel, which is characterized by stylized geometrical. Dedicated relaxation and work areas will make each of the spacious guestrooms welcoming and comfortable, while marble will add a touch of timeless elegance to the guest bathrooms. The brand’s signature in room amenities, such as the Hilton Serenity bed, will ensure the ultimate comfort for every guest. The hotel’s five suites located at the Penthouse Floor provide private balconies with beautiful views over the city.

The makeover also extends to the meeting area on the first floor of the hotel on the Ringstraße. The 10 renovated, bright and fully equipped conference rooms will offer an ideal venue for holding meetings and conferences for up to 150 people (theatre style) in a central location. The generous Executive Lounge, located on the same floor, offers space for more than 70 people and will also be available for special meetings.

Matthias Herd, hotel manager, said, “Most important for us is to continue examining and enhancing our concept of service and our approach to service delivery. By delivering a higher level of individualised care and attention, we aim to enable our guests to recapture the spirit of the Golden Age. The newly developed welcome concept guarantees guests an even more personal experience, with our Plaza Hosts acting as direct point of contact from arrival to departure.”

The redesign of Hilton Vienna Plaza was inspired by the architectural history of the building and artworks created in the Art Deco and Wiener Werkstätte styles, which were previously evident throughout the hotel. Encapsulating these design influences, the new brasserie and bar “Émileim Plaza” is set to complement the upgrade with an array of irresistible gastronomic delights.

Chris Webb, Senior Director of Interior Design, Europe at Hilton Worldwide, drew on the defining elements of the Viennese Secession style which were incorporated when the hotel was built in the mid-1980s. Prominent architects of the early 1920s – especially Adolf Loos and Joseph Hoffmann – served as important sources of inspiration. Their work had a very high impact on the flair of Hilton Vienna Plaza. The aim of the modernisation is to accentuate special features of this unique history and to combine it with the comfort of the 21th century, always focusing on the interests of the hotel’s guests.

W Hotels Worldwide today announced the second wave of renovation projects as part of the brand’s plan to reinvigorate its iconic North American portfolio. The aggressive strategy focuses on further enhancing the W portfolio and $100 million investment of the brand and its ownership groups with cutting-edge updates to public spaces, new signature bar and restaurant concepts, and stylish guestroom updates in key markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Seattle, Mexico City and Washington DC. “The W brand is rooted in New York City, and as we expand globally, we are committed to remaining at the forefront of design and programming innovation here in North America,” said Anthony Ingham, Vice President, North America Brand Management, W Hotels. “Over the last two years, we have seen tremendous excitement among our guests and locals surrounding our recent refreshes and are excited to further reinvigorate key properties in our portfolio.”

To bring the renovations to life, W Hotels has tapped some of the design industry’s brightest rising visionaries to collaborate with the brand’s award-winning design team. This second round of renovations follows the completion of renovation projects at W San Diego, W San Francisco, W Seattle, W New York – Union Square, W New York – Times Square, W Dallas – Victory, and W New Orleans – French Quarter.

“Design is at the core of the W brand’s DNA and through our cutting-edge renovations, we’re continuing to push the boundaries for some of our most iconic hotels in North America,” said Ted Jacobs, Vice President, Global Brand Design, W Hotels Worldwide. “We pride ourselves on innovative design narratives and unique storytelling, and look forward to bringing this to life in our properties around the country.”

Upcoming W Hotel renovation projects include:
• W Atlanta – Midtown – In June, W Atlanta – Midtown will unveil a new restaurant, TRACE, the brand’s signature sustainable, farm-to-hotel dining concept. Designed by Puccini Group, the look of TRACE draws inspiration from characteristics often found on the farm, design elements include textured and weathered woods, metal tables inspired by machinery, and an eclectic assortment of seating, such as mismatched chairs and wooden crates. A refresh Living Room will also be unveiled later this year.
• W Chicago – City Center – Nestled in Chicago’s Loop, W Chicago – City Center will offer 14,000 square feet of refreshed meeting spaces for a brightened and fully refreshed look. Debuting this spring with the help of design firm Forchielli Glynn, iconic elements from the building’s 1920’s architecture such as original chandeliers, vaulted gold ceilings and an oversized fireplace are enhanced with modern W design.
• W Chicago – Lakeshore – Slated for completion in May 2014, W Chicago – Lakeshore’s full scale, top-to-bottom renovation by Meyer Davis Design is a nod to the hotel’s location and the manner in which it reflects the energy of the city onto the glittering waters of Lake Michigan. The entire hotel will be redesigned, inside and out, including all 520 guest rooms and suites, corridors, and building exterior. All public spaces including The Living Room, meeting space, and Altitude (event space with 360 degree views of the city), will be completely reimagined as well as a new beverage and food experience, Current, by Cornerstone Restaurant Group.
• W Hoboken – Inspired by nods to Frank Sinatra and baseball, each of the 265 guestrooms and suites will be updated by Starwood’s in-house design team while a custom-designed 25 foot chandelier by Madlab will be installed in the hotel’s Great Room. These renovations follow the February 2014 opening of the new destination bar, LuLu’s, designed by Novogratz.
• W Los Angeles – Westwood – This beloved celebrity hideaway, featuring all suite rooms, has engaged Dawson Design Associates to redesign all 258 guestrooms by the end of 2014.
• W Mexico City – With a playfully sophisticated “Masquerade” design narrative imagined by nemaworkshop, W Mexico City recently revealed its Living Room renovation. An exciting new destination restaurant and completely renovated guestrooms are also underway.
• W Montreal – Starwood’s in-house design team will renovate all 152 guestrooms and suites with a colorful new palette that pays tribute to the historical architecture of the city. Rooms will be revealed in 2015
• W New York – Inspired by the sights and sounds of New York City, the W brand’s birthplace, the flagship property recently re-energized its Living Room with the help from local New York design agency Krause + Sawyer.
• W San Francisco – Slated for completion in 2014, W San Francisco’s roof top Terrace, FIT® (W’s state-of-the-art fitness center) and signature restaurant TRACE will undergo a complete redesign by Skylab Architecture. Guest rooms and meeting spaces will be refreshed early next year.
• W Seattle – W Seattle will introduce 423 newly updated guestrooms in 2015. Envisioned by Krause + Sawyer, the newly designed quarters will draw inspiration from the sound associated with the shock waves of a sonic boom, mixed with urban aircraft architecture and indigenous lodges.
• W Washington, DC – In 2014, W Washington DC’s famed POV rooftop terrace and lounge will unveil a completely new look by nemaworkshop. Inspired by some of DC’s most famed icons, the newly reimagined space will include nods to the Capitol building with large scale wall art featuring W’s glamorous version of U.S. presidents.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced the re-opening of the iconic Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers following an extensive US$50 million renovation. Opened in 1978, the landmark hotel was the first Starwood hotel to open in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Following the transformation – which includes all guest rooms, facilities, public spaces and the hotel’s Italian restaurant, Vivaldi by Alfredo Russo – Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers will continue to be a choice gathering place for global travellers and the local community. Located on the Creek’s edge with uninterrupted water and city views, the hotel’s new design offers a stylish relaxing escape from the bustling city for business and leisure travellers. Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers comprises 268 guestrooms and suites, providing guests with the perfect respite to immerse themselves in the charms of old Dubai. The fully refurbished rooms offer panoramic water and city views, feature a contemporary design with a warm palette and are equipped with the signature all-white Sheraton Sweet Sleeper™ Bed.

The top floors of the hotel offer guests Sheraton Club rooms and suites, with exclusive access to the Sheraton Club Lounge for private check-in and check-out, complimentary continental breakfast, evening drinks and snacks and free wireless internet access.

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers offers an array of dining experiences in a prime location along the Creek. Heralded as one of the best Italian restaurants in Dubai, Vivaldi by Alfredo Russo offers a creative gastronomic menu created by Michelin-starred chef Alfredo Russo. Overlooking the waters and skyline of Dubai, the restaurant features a climate-controlled terrace for year-round al-fresco dining.

The award-winning Ashiana is a pioneer of traditional Indian cuisine in Dubai, using progressive techniques served with modern presentation. Diners can enjoy the theatre of cooking at the live-action Creekside Japanese Restaurant, seeing chefs in action at the Teppanyaki grill, wok or seafood stations.
One of the very first English pubs in Dubai, Chelsea Arms, continues to offer a truly British experience, while the Lobby Café – the social gathering place of the neighbourhood – will serve a wide selection of cakes and pastries throughout the day, as well as afternoon tea. Hatta, the hotel’s international buffet restaurant, offers a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the Dubai Creek.

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers continues to offer extensive meeting and function rooms, with the elegant Dubai Ballroom accommodating up to 500 guests, and four breakout rooms located in the Executive Conference Centre. The hotel’s meeting and event spaces are perfect for major events such as business conferences and weddings.

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the opening of a new 258-room Holiday Inn® – Sherwood Park – Conference Centre hotel in Sherwood Park, Alberta. Located in the heart of the business district in Sherwood Park, just off the Yellowhead Trail, the hotel opens following a multi-million dollar investment in renovations by AUM Hotels Group. The hotel design creates a familiar atmosphere that is warm, trend forward and comfortable. The 195,000 sq.ft. property at 2100 Premier Way, boasts an elegant Royal Ballroom with two balconies and a private outdoor terrace, creating the perfect backdrop for weddings. The design includes business-focused necessities such as an ergonomic workstation, free high speed wireless internet access and complimentary Globe and Mail® newspapers. Guests can also take advantage of 17 meeting rooms encompassing over 22,000 square feet, a new pool and a well-equipped fitness centre.

The Holiday Inn Sherwood Park – Conference Centre hotel is owned by Prem Singhmar and operated by AUM Hotels Group, and is franchised by an affiliate of IHG.

June 13 2014 sees the opening of La Villa del Re, an exclusive, secluded 5-star hotel reflected in the sea of Costa Rei, in southern Sardinia. Ideal for those seeking a relaxing, comfortable stay in the peace and quiet of nature, the exquisite style of La Villa del Re offers the finest of opportunities to enjoy the unspoilt beauty and unrivalled landscapes of the island. The hotel, located within a protected area, is one of the few new hotels in Europe to open right opposite the sea, which guests can admire from the private beach or the infinity pool.A natural setting of unparalleled beauty and a subtly sophisticated approach to luxury are the hallmarks of the 5-star hotel La Villa del Re, set to open on June 13 in Castiadas (Costa Rei), on the southern stretch of the Sardinian coastline, east of Cagliari. Right on the seafront, the hotel nestles within a spacious garden, and is surrounded by parkland in which pine and palm trees alternate with Mediterranean shrubland. The splendid location and the size of the hotel make it the ideal choice for an exclusive, entirely relaxing stay. The philosophy of La Villa del Re gives each area of the hotel a warmly sophisticated, subtly elegant atmosphere that blends smoothly with the characteristic landscape and architecture of Sardinia. The private beach on the doorstep, the inviting pool and the gourmet restaurant all help to make a stay here truly unforgettable.

The beautifully inviting décor of the hotel has been created in a style designed to be delightfully attractive without being excessively lavish.

Initially only 35 of the superbly appointed 65 Superior, Deluxe and Junior Suite rooms will be open, decorated in a subtly captivating style. All rooms have a sea view and look onto the splendid garden. Those on the ground floor have a private garden and patio, while those on the first floor are provided with a balcony. Each one is equipped with a bathtub or shower cabinet for colour therapy.

The hotel has its own restaurant on the ground floor, with an outdoor area for alfresco dining that offers superb views of the sea and the garden with pool. The menus created by the first-rate chef draw their inspiration from the finest Mediterranean culinary tradition, with a particular focus on Sardinian dishes that comprises both the intense aromas of the inland areas and the finest the sea opposite the kitchen has to offer.

The hotel is just 80 metres from the large beach with fine white sand reserved for hotel guests that offers the chance to admire the sea of Sardinia in all its beauty. The area opposite the sea is equipped with chairs, sun loungers and deckchairs in technical fabrics, while elegant beach umbrellas, large white curtains and attractive gazebos offer shelter from the sun.

Between the hotel and the beach is the marvellous “infinity” pool, tiled with typical local white stone, stretching right towards the beach and blending smoothly into the blue of the sea. The exceptionally well stocked poolside bar, furnished with comfortable club chairs and tables in the shade of the palm trees, is the ideal place for guests to enjoy a tasty snack.

Marriott International joined with British Airways and the Institute of Travel and Meetings to host a dedicated travel industry forum to discuss global social and environmental trends on 4 April. The event, at the St Pancras Renaissance London Hotel was attended by more than 120 corporate travel buyers and included special guest speakers such as Ipsos MORI CEO, Ben Page and Bernard Harrop, Head of Sustainability, Global Business Travel Association Foundation.Ben Page set the scene for the day’s discussion by encouraging companies to move beyond basic environmental programmes and address more complex and challenging CSR issues including social innovation and long-term industry collaboration.

Page commented, “Most global companies now recognise the importance of corporate social responsibility. They have impressive and robust CSR strategies that are embedded in company culture, especially in regard to environmental policies. However, there is still a long way to go and companies need to think hard about their involvement with local communities, improving living standards, education and fostering strong local economies, at a time when trust in business generally remains low.”

A presentation on British Airways’ social and environmental strategies was given by Jonathon Counsell, Head of Environment while Barbara Powell and Hemma Varma, Corporate Social Responsibility, Marriott Europe presented on Marriott’s social and environmental strategies.

Hemma Varma, Senior Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, Marriott Europe said, “We were pleased to be able to collaborate with one of our top business partners, British Airways, to showcase our aligned commitment to sustainable operations and supply chain management. The interactive format of the day enabled travel buyers to tell us what they thought of our strategies and programmes – opinions that will help shape our future direction.”

A panel discussion on how to ‘Avoid the Horrors Lurking In Your Supply Chain’ was moderated by Bernard Harrop with panellists including Carmel Giblin, CEO, SEDEX, Sandy Moring, Senior Director & Head of Sustainability, Carlson Wagonlit Travel UK & Ireland, Fran Hughes, Head of Programmes, International Tourism Partnership, Mark Avery, Head of Business Services, PwC and Jonathon Counsell, Head of Environment, British Airways.

Hilton Worldwide and DoubleTree by Hilton have announced the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Residences Dubai – Al Barsha located within a short walking distance of Mall of The Emirates, famous for its Ski Dubai attraction, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East, with areas for skiing, sledding and more. The 359 room property is the first DoubleTree by Hilton hotel to open in the Emirate of Dubai and the second to open in the United Arab Emirates this year.With 181 spacious and modern rooms, 13 suites, 41 studios and 124 one and two bedroom apartments, DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – Al Barsha will appeal to both leisure and business travellers for short and long-term stays. The hotel also features a wide range of amenities including complimentary WIFI for Hilton HHonors Diamond and Gold members, complimentary WIFI for all in the public areas, three meeting rooms, two with flexible sizes, complimentary shuttle to the Mall of the Emirates and Dubai public beaches, complimentary 24-hour business and fitness centres, sauna, steam room and an outdoor pool.

Guests will have a selection of dining options in the hotel’s three outlets: Tikka Cafe, where they can experience Indian flavors in a casual and colourful atmosphere; Bistro 55, serving a broad selection of local and international cuisine; and the Lobby Lounge, where guests can relax with a comforting coffee or tea and delicious pastries.

Other DoubleTree by Hilton locations in the UAE are: DoubleTree by Hilton Ras al Khaimah and DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island. DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – Jumeirah Beach is planned to open late 2014.

A refreshed new look and branding of the former J Plus Boutique Hotel in Causeway Bay as J Plus Hotel by YOO is unveiled on May 22, 2014 following a bold HK$10 million makeover by world class YOO Studio.On its 10th anniversary, the iconic fashionista address has been “redefined’ for the next decade by YOO, founded by design guru Philippe Starck and entrepreneur John Hitchcox.

A new-look façade “pulls back the curtains” to reveal the buzzing street-level lobby and the main entrance, previously tucked away discreetly in Irving Street, is now switched to a much larger and more prominent entry in Pennington Street.

Interiors also have a creative new lease of life bearing avant garde design elements that unmistakably reflect YOO’s unconventional DNA, from playfully coloured fabrics by feted designers such as ‘Timorous Beasties’ to eclectic imported European furniture.

Yellow, orange and red tinted glass panels inscribed with Chinese motifs of coins, dragons and bamboo are introduced as symbols of good fortune.

A giant entry panel artwork bears an uncanny resemblance to Leonardo’s enigmatic Mona Lisa, playfully symbolising both the Renaissance in European culture and the hotel’s own rebirth.

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InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®) has announced the signing of Holiday Inn® Stavropol – the first internationally branded hotel in the city. IHG will manage the hotel on behalf of new owner Metropolia 26 LLC. Set to open in 2017, the 242-room newly constructed hotel will feature the Holiday Inn brand’s signature Open Lobby with a dining area, media lounge and bar as well as state-of-the-art meeting facilities including five meeting rooms and a ballroom.

The Holiday Inn Open Lobby is an innovative approach and in-hotel experience for guests, which has transformed the traditional hotel lobby format by combining the front desk, lobby, restaurant, bar, lounge area and business centre into one open, cohesive space, while refreshing the design to give it a more contemporary feel. The concept has been established by understanding how people use space at home in order to give guests the most flexibility, whether they’re looking to eat, relax, work, or have fun in one integrated space.

The hotel will be part of a multi-development project in an area close to the city’s cultural hub. It is anticipated the hotel will meet increasing hospitality demand from the area’s surrounding corporate business.

IHG recently signed a management agreement with new owner LLC “UK Platinum” to open Holiday Inn® St Petersburg – Kremenchugskaya. The 170 room hotel due to open in 2017 is located close to the Moskovsky railway station – the city’s main connection to Moscow.

Novotel London Wembley, the 32nd Novotel hotel in the UK, is now open. The 235-bedroom hotel is located next to Wembley Park Underground station and is within easy reach of Baker Street, Euston, St Pancras, Liverpool Street and Westminster via the Jubilee or Metropolitan underground lines.Just minutes from Wembley Stadium, the London hotel is ideally located for sporting and concert events throughout the year. The hotel features a total of 235 rooms including 12 long-stay apartments, two meeting rooms and an In Balance fitness suite.

Whether staying for business or pleasure, the hotel’s stylish design is welcoming. Each bedroom is spacious, stylish and comfortable in design, offering space to work, rest and play and the technology to support your stay with satellite TV and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

The hotel’s Elements Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner, or to relax in the lounge with a drink and light bite.

Novotel is the perfect home from home for families. The hotels’ family rooms offer the space to spend cozy evenings together and wake up smiling in the morning. Elements caters for all the family with balanced menus and a complimentary breakfast for children. With Novotel’s family offering, Family & Novotel, children are pampered guests and their parents are, quite simply, relaxed and happy.

For those travelling on business, the hotel can cater for meetings of up to 140 delegates in the Wembley Suite and the business centre offers a quiet zone for business travellers to make the most of the hotel’s free Wi-Fi and meet in privacy.

Novotel London Wembley is perfectly located for all the entertainment that Wembley has to offer and is at the gateway to London, with central London mere moments away.

Commenting on the new Novotel hotel, Jonathan Sheard, SVP Operations Luxury, Upscale & Midscale Hotels, Accor UK & Ireland said: “We are delighted to announce the opening of our 32nd Novotel hotel in the UK. The Novotel London Wembley hotel is a fantastic addition to the UK network, at the heart of all the sports, music and entertainment on offer at Wembley’s world-renowned venues, and well placed to explore the rest of central London.

“Wembley has seen much development in recent years, particularly with the opening of the London Designer Outlet at Wembley Park. We are delighted to be part of the area’s transformation and the growth of central and greater London. London continues to be one of the most exciting cities in the world to live, visit and do business.”

Holiday Inn Express Southwark has this week unveiled a £4.5million extension, adding 48 new bedrooms and a host of innovative eco-friendly measures including the installation of a 100m² ‘green wall’ on the side of the building.The central London hotel, which is operated by Redefine|BDL Hotels, the UK’s largest hotel management company, has also adopted a grey water system, solar panels, heat recovery units and a building management system to reduce its impact on the environment.

Steven Foster, divisional director at Redefine|BDL Hotels, said: “It’s fantastic to have incorporated so many innovations into the hotel as part of our extension – from our new rooms to the impressive green wall.

“The investment we have put into the development of the hotel is testament to our commitment to our guests and to the surrounding area. As well as reducing our own energy consumption and operating costs, we hope our eco measures will have an impact on our visitors and locals in the area.”

The hotel’s green wall is a ‘living’ wall which is specially constructed to include various types of plant life including flowering plants, ferns and grasses, as well as integrated bird and bug boxes.

Steven added: “The wall will help us to encourage cleaner air and biodiversity and will also feed into our new grey water system which harvests rain water from the roof to flush the building’s public toilets, helping to reduce our water usage.”

The hotel has also installed 24 solar panels on the roof which provide energy to be used within the building, and heat recovery units on each floor to reduce overall energy consumption.

A Trend Building Management System, managed from reception, allows the team to monitor all mechanical operational equipment to further reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint.

In addition to the new environmental measures, the hotel, which previously had 88 bedrooms, has added 24 fully accessible rooms and 24 ambulant rooms, which include extra manoeuvring space, a removable shower seat and integrated rails in the bathroom.

The extension is BREEAM accredited as a result of the ambulant rooms and green initiatives in place.

Hilton Worldwide and Hilton Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Hilton Bangalore Residences. The trendy upscale, full-service hotel is strategically located within the Embassy Golf Links Business Park, the hub of several Fortune 500 companies. Overlooking the expanse of the Karnataka Golf Course, the hotel is sited at the intersection of Koramangala and Indiranagar, and within a 25-minute drive of M.G. Road and Sarjapur Outer Ring Road, the commercial nerve centres of the city, offering easy access to the best in shopping, entertainment and dining. Hilton Worldwide forayed into Bangalore, earlier this year, with the launch of DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bangalore. Owned by Umbel Properties Pvt. Ltd. and managed by Hilton Worldwide, the hotel features 247 studios and one and two bedroom suites that range from a spacious 495 square feet to 1,335 square feet and are among the largest in the city. Each guest room is purpose-built to meet every guest’s needs, from transient business travellers to long-stay guests, offering dedicated living, dining and work areas and a fully-equipped kitchenette. The kitchenettes are furnished with appliances like microwaves, induction plates and refrigerators, providing guests the option of self-catering. The suites additionally feature separate living rooms, washers/dryers and dishwashers. Other highlights include the signature and luxurious Hilton Serenity Bed and an uncluttered work desk with an ergonomic chair.

Hilton Bangalore Residences offers four stylish dining venues. Ministry of Food is the all-day global cuisine restaurant. The Salt Grill poolside al-fresco bar and grill is an ideal venue to relax with a drink as the sun goes down. KLINX is the chic lobby bar and re:cess the coffee lounge.

Business travellers will be able to access round-the-clock business services as well as web-enabled computer workstations. The conference and events space at the hotel comprises two boardrooms, ideally suited for mid-sized and exclusive business meetings and social gatherings, and four meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 90 people in a range of settings. Recreational options include an outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pool, a 24-hour fully-equipped Fitness Centre by Precor™, a spa and an indoor Kids Play Area.

Brookshire Suites Baltimore has recently re-launched at 120 East Lombard Street under the stewardship of Modus Hotels, a D.C.-based owner and operator of lifestyle hotels. Making its first foray into the city of Baltimore, Modus’ vision is to deliver an authentic urban experience informed by the city’s thriving scene that both inspires and entertains. Seattle-based interior designers, Dawson Design Associates, whose portfolio includes the award-winning Hotel Zetta in San Francisco and the swanky Hotel 1000 in Seattle, re-imagined the space with a bold juxtaposition of hard edge art statements and timeless elements that create a thought-provoking and exciting environment. Modular sofas and a communal table encourage people to socialize and linger in the lobby, a space that is no longer merely a pass through. Interpretations of street art commissioned by local artist and creator of the Baltimore Love Project, Michael Owen, call to mind Baltimore’s row houses and prideful neighbourhood, establishing an outspoken and unapologetic energy that defines the Brookshire and captures the independent spirits of its guests. The space is also accented with black and white photographs of Baltimore born musicians; Frank Zappa, Mama Cass Elliott and Adam Duritz, lead singer from the Counting Crows.

The Red Bar, located in the lobby furthers the local flavor by partnering with local brands such as Zeke’s Coffee, Heavy Seas Brewery, and Knob Hall Winery. In addition, the vibrant lobby affords guests an opportunity to enjoy board games, social conversation and, on certain nights, local music. “We wanted to create a lifestyle hotel that was truly connected to the edgy, modern feel that is Baltimore, with the Brookshire Suites emerging as an urban playground for business and leisure travellers,” says Modus Hotels President and CEO Aaron Katz.

Accommodations include 97 spacious and unique studio and one bedroom suites boasting comforting features such as oversized desks, mini-fridges and large, light-filled bay windows with views of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Guest rooms take a cue from local Baltimore and street art themes, with artist portraits, bright pops of colour, and graffiti wall covering against warm grey textured walls. In addition, guests are treated to Gilchrist & Soames’ luxurious Zero% eco-friendly bath amenities.

Business travellers can take advantage of nearly 2,000 square feet of event space; two flexibly designed rooms including a multi-use 12th floor space with harbour views as well as daily breakfast and grab-and-go snacks and beverages from the lobby’s Marketplace. Visitors can get a taste of the local flavour one block away from the Inner Harbor or in Fell’s Point— whose eateries have been nationally recognized — as well as explore Federal Hill, Hampden, and historic Mount Vernon. The Brookshire also enjoys a partnership with MV Fitness, a fitness studio housed in a converted Victorian home that offers yoga, spin and cardio classes.

Together with Orange Lake Resorts, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) announces the addition of a 12th location to the portfolio of Holiday Inn Club Vacations®brand resorts. Located a short distance from Cocoa Beach, the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Cape Canaveral Beach Resort will be the brand’s fifth resort in Florida, joining the flagship 1,450-acre property, Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort in Orlando. The addition of the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Cape Canaveral Beach Resort follows a recent announcement that the brand has added another resort, in Williamsburg, Va., to its ever-expanding portfolio.The Holiday Inn Club Vacations brand continues to explore new and exciting ways to enhance vacation experiences. The addition of upscale accommodations and new resort locations is a key strategy driven by what owners and guests are seeking. Owners have come to trust the Holiday Inn Club Vacations brand to deliver family-friendly vacation experiences in exciting destinations, with resorts featuring spacious villa accommodations and a variety of on-site activities.

As with all Holiday Inn Club Vacations resorts, the location at Cape Canaveral Beach Resort offers more room and fun things to do. Guests will enjoy spacious studios or fully equipped one- and two-bedroom villas ranging from 414 square feet to 1,224 square feet. Amenities include an on-site restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, a picturesque pool with a variety of water features including a lazy river, an extensive game room and children’s activity area, mini golf, exercise facilities and much more.

DoubleTree by Hilton Izmir – Alsancak welcomed guests for the first time as of the 6th May, marking the upscale brand’s debut in Turkey’s third most populous city. The 115-room hotel recently underwent a refurbishment programme and boasts a stunning roof top pool and bar, providing views over Izmir’s city centre and the Aegean Sea.The 21 storey hotel appeals to both corporate customers and leisure visitors, and incorporates a range of upscale amenities for which DoubleTree by Hilton is known around the world. Each guest at the hotel will be greeted with a signature DoubleTree by Hilton warm chocolate cookie upon check-in, and the welcoming atmosphere will continue throughout their stay, courtesy of the DoubleTree by Hilton CARE service culture.

The DoubleTree by Hilton award-winning CARE culture – which stands for ‘Create A Rewarding Experience’ for guests, team members and the community empowers Team Members to provide the special comforts and acts of kindness that make the traveller feel human again. Guests can relax with a traditional Turkish bath, visit the spa and fitness centre, or sample international cuisine and local delicacies at the hotel’s restaurant, Smyrna.

Situated in Alsancak, the hotel is within walking distance of Izmir’s many visitor sights, including its historic clock tower in Konak Square and the vibrant Kemeralti Bazaar. DoubleTree by Hilton Izmir – Alsancak is located 20 minutes from Izmir International Airport, which offers direct flights to 45 international airports.

Gold and diamonds were the making of modern South Africa. The large hole in Kimberley is now a tourist attraction, but Gold can now be found in Cape Town as well as the Rand.

In Bennett Street to be exact.

Next to the bus station…
Gold is a designed eating experience building on the culture of Africa. It uses not just South African but the decorative arts of the continent, its languages and traditions. All form part of a ‘foodie’ experience, a totally designed eating experience that satisfies all the senses.

Set in a converted warehouse near to the Victoria and Albert Waterfront, Gold has turned a fishmeal store into a venue for music, dance and great eating. The design has focussed on bringing African artefacts and style into the creation of a set of quite intimate interior spaces in which diners can enjoy a set menu ‘taste of Africa’ with food selected and skilfully cooked originating in the diverse mix of native and Cape Malay described as an ‘African taste Safari’.

Eating at Gold is a designed experience. Best to arrive at or before 18.30 hrs when the community drumming commences. Welcomed with a glass of sparkling South African wine, guests join in a conducted drum fest, being coached and teased into performing as an African drum djembe band accompaniment to the resident performer, Binos.

With wry humour the assorted tourist are gently coached into a routine, which to their surprise works well, finishing with a dramatic and accomplished solo performance by their drum guru.

The Hotel Indigo Downtown Atlanta location will occupy eight floors of a building first developed 50 years ago by one of Atlanta’s most respected and influential architects, John C. Portman, Jr., whose real estate development firm, Portman Holdings, purchased the building. The Hotel Indigo Downtown Atlanta hotel, expected to open in fall 2015, will be located at 230 Peachtree St. NE, near Atlanta gems including Centennial Olympic Park, the Tabernacle and the Rialto Center for the Arts. The hotel will be adjacent to AmericasMart, one of the world’s largest permanent wholesale trade centres, consisting of four buildings and more than seven million square feet of trade show space. AmericasMart hosts several trade shows throughout the year including the Atlanta Apparel Markets and the Atlanta International Gift and Home Furnishings Markets. The approximately 200-room conversion property will have a fitness centre, business centre, bar and restaurant.

The hotel is owned by Portman 230, LLC, and will be franchised by an affiliate of IHG.

Travelodge, the UK’s biggest independent hotel chain, has announced the launch of a new £25 million advertising campaign to inspire Britain to get up and go.The campaign, which is the company’s biggest advertising spend to date features scenes shot across Britain and highlights Travelodge’s new look, being delivered through a £57 million hotel modernisation programme. This includes the installation of more than 37,000 new bespoke king size Travelodge Dreamer beds.

The campaign marks the company’s return to television after a four year absence and launches with an extended ad during ITV’s flagship programme, Britain’s Got Talent, on Saturday 10th May 2014. In addition to TV, the campaign also includes an extensive press, outdoor and digital presence.

Peter Gowers, Travelodge Chief Executive said:

“Our new advertising campaign is the latest milestone on our journey to build a new Travelodge and become Britain’s favourite hotel for value. We’ve expanded from our traditional roadside locations and now have more than 500 hotels. We’ve been investing a million pounds a week in modernising our hotels and we’re installing more than 37,000 new Travelodge Dreamer beds. Our customers are telling us they love our new look, so now is the right time for us to be back on television, inspiring people to get up and go.

“Our campaign inspires you to get up and go and explore all that Britain has to offer. Whether you are going to take the kids, leave the kids, or make more kids, there are now over 500 Travelodge hotels to base yourself in and thousands of new beds to get up and go from.”

Travelodge has recently embarked on a clear strategy to become Britain’s favourite hotel for value. In addition to its investment in extensive hotel refurbishment, in January 2014, the chain announced it will install its new Travelodge Dreamer bed in all its UK hotels by September 2014. During February and March 2014 almost 9,000 team-members received new customer service training and in April 2014 Travelodge slashed prices for wifi to an initial free period of 30 minutes and £3 for up to 24hrs.

The company will extend its network of hotels further this year, with 15 new hotels expected to open in city centre and key holiday locations during 2014.

Peter Gowers continued:

“Since 1985, we’ve been making travel affordable to millions of people across Britain. Our continuing expansion into key city centres, our new more modern look and actions to slash the cost of wifi access are all part of our ongoing journey to become Britain’s favourite hotel for value.”

Marriott International, Inc. has announced the opening of the Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Pangyo. Located in the heart of the Pangyo Techno Valley, a rising information technology cluster in Seongnam city, the 282-room hotel is just a three minute walk away from the Pangyo subway station which gives direct access to Seoul Gangnam in just 16 minutes with easy access to all southern Gyeonggi areas.For the discerning frequent business travellers, Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Pangyo implements a 100% smoke-free policy throughout the hotel and offers three thoughtfully designed room types ranging in size from 26 to 42 square meters, all equipped with a 40” flat screen smart TV, comfortable work desk and ergonomic chair and high-speed Internet access to help guests stay more productive. Also, an Executive Lounge is located on the top 19th floor for executive floor guests offering complimentary daily breakfast, evening happy hour service with canapés, complimentary coffee and tea and free meeting room usage benefits.

The complex is a 19-story building, with the hotel occupying the 8th floor and above with offices, retail shops, restaurants and coffee houses situated in floors below. The hotel is efficiently designed to satisfy the convenience of guests through its “one stop” layout with the lobby, restaurant and bar and meeting rooms located on the 8th floor. Guests and locals can experience the healthy, international flavors that all-day-dining restaurant MoMo Café showcases in the vibrant open kitchen and live cooking stations. The adjoining MoMo Bar serves a selection of snacks, beverages and spirits with an outdoor terrace overlooking the Pangyo Techno Valley. Moreover, seven multi-functional meeting rooms are ideal for a business meeting or social purposes with a dedicated Event Manager to coordinate the event from start to finish.

Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Pangyo is the 7th Marriott International property and 2nd Courtyard branded hotel to open in Korea. Being the first business hotel in the Pangyo Techno Valley, Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Pangyo will support the area’s development as an IT hot spot as well as strongly settling the property’s presence in the southern Gyeonggi region for both business travellers and locals.

Hilton Worldwide and DoubleTree by Hilton have recently announced the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Jakarta – Diponegoro, the first DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Indonesia. Conveniently located in the heart of Jakarta city, the new-build, upscale 253-room hotel opens with three dining outlets, including one modern all-day dining restaurant, as well as an outdoor pool, a kids’ pool, seven meetings and events rooms, and 24-hour business and fitness centres.The hotel is 4.2 kilometres away from the Central Business District, near multinational companies, embassies, government offices as well as the city centre’s popular shopping, dining and entertainment landmarks such as Plaza Indonesia and Grand Indonesia.

Spanning more than 1,400 square meters of meeting and banquet spaces, DoubleTree by Hilton Jakarta – Diponegoro offers seven versatile function rooms which can cater to a variety of meetings and events including a standing reception of up to 800 persons in the hotel’s Makara Ballroom. The large, flexible Makara ballroom is pillar-less and features an eight-meter high ceiling. Other features to the meeting facility include a dedicated porte-cochere and a naturally-lit foyer that leads to the outdoor garden. A 24-hour business centre allows guests to stay connected and productive throughout their visit.

The hotel offers three innovative dining and entertainment options including the all-day dining restaurant, OPEN, which features three show kitchen stations that serve local Indonesian, Asian and Western cuisines as well as a barista counter to serve fresh coffee specialties. Guests can unwind in the cosy T LOUNGE which serves a variety of gourmet coffees, cocktails and premium wines. By the poolside, guests can relax at KREM pool bar which offers a selection of ice creams, as well as local and Western-style light bites.

Guests can also enjoy the comforts and convenient features of the spacious guestrooms including the DoubleTree by Hilton Sweet DreamsTM bed, a 42-inch LCD TV, and a large workspace with internet access and Wi-Fi connectivity. Guests can re-energize at the wellness centre that includes a 24-hour fitness centre fully furnished with LifeFitness® health equipment. Located next to the swimming pool and kids’ pool, the wellness centre also features spa facilities including three therapy rooms with attached whirlpools.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has recently announced the launch of Fairmont Residences Nanjing, new luxury apartments being developed in one of China’s fastest growing cities. The privately owned residences enjoy an enviable location in the heart of the prestigious district of Hexi New Town and are just a few blocks from the Nanjing International Expo Centre and Nanjing Olympic Sports Centre.The announcement of Fairmont Residences Nanjing follows the recent opening of Fairmont Nanjing, a new luxury hotel located on the upper floors of the 62-storey Jin Ao Tower. Scheduled to open in January 2015, the residences build on Fairmont’s growing presence in Asia Pacific. As with the hotel, the development partner on the residential project is Jiangsu Golden Land.

Featuring a contemporary urban design and wide selection of luxury amenities, most of the 146 branded residences will range in size from one to five bedrooms. Of notable interest will be two generous spaces; a spacious six-bedroom apartment and an expansive 535 square meter (5,758 square foot) seven-bedroom residence. Offering a unique residential ownership opportunity paired with the celebrated services and amenities of one of the world’s leading luxury hotel brands, the new residences will be located adjacent to the breathtaking new Jin Ao Tower, an architectural wonder resembling an immense Chinese lantern.

While enjoying preferred access to services and amenities at Fairmont Nanjing, including signature restaurants and bars, residential owners will also have exclusive access to a 400 square meter Resident’s Lounge and a private gym.

Originally scheduled to open last September, the doors to London’s most anticipated hotel finally opened on the 6th May with the unveiling of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts’ first property in the United Kingdom – Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London. Celebrating Shangri-La’s Asian heritage, the hotel’s opening ceremony began with the traditional ‘awakening of the lion’ and a colourful dance procession, which was followed by the official ribbon cutting led by Mayor of London Boris Johnson. The Mayor was joined by Lord and Lady Coe and international dignitaries.

Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London is the Hong Kong-based hotel group’s 83rd hotel and third in Europe, following the openings of Shangri-La Hotel, Paris and Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul in 2010 and 2013, respectively.

Located in the tallest building in Western Europe on floors 34 to 52, Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London is the city’s first high-rise hotel. It offers unrivalled views of London in every direction, overlooking such landmarks as the Houses of Parliament, Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral. The hotel joins Park Plaza’s hotels as a luxury property south of the River Thames, once considered by hoteliers as a ‘no go zone’. It is conveniently positioned in SE1 above the London Bridge public transport interchange just minutes from The City of London.

“The sweeping views from Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard provide an entirely new perspective on London. It is a spectacular setting in which to introduce our signature Asian-inspired hospitality to the U.K.” said Shangri-La President and CEO Greg Dogan. “The master architect Renzo Piano had amazing vision with his design of The Shard. We’ve created a unique hotel that complements the iconic building and makes the most of the 360-degree view of London.”

Continued on page two…

March Highlights
• Madrid and Warsaw are March Winners
• Mind the gap for Dusseldorf and Moscow
• Paris hit by costs

Center Parcs Woburn Forest has revealed that their 75 bedroom Hotel is now complete.

The new luxury Hotel boasts Austrian inspired rooms for couples and friends to book for mid-week and weekend short breaks. It is nestled within Woburn Forest’s woodland landscape with stunning views through the trees and across the lake. Just 50 minutes from central London, the Hotel is close to a number of key areas within Center Parcs including the Aqua Sana spa, gym and watersports lake. It is just a five minute walk from the Subtropical Swimming Paradise and a variety of activities such as archery, tree trekking, canoeing and badminton.

Center Parcs is a car-free environment, making it the ideal place to get close to nature, with the majority of guests choosing cycling as their way of getting around. These are available to hire from the Village Cycle Centre. As with the Lodges at Woburn Forest, the Hotel rooms are designed to help guests feel connected to the forest surroundings.

The uniquely designed rooms feature a series of mirrors behind the exposed headboard to give added depth to the bedroom and draw the forest surroundings into it. The bed is situated in the centre of the room, with the toilet and washing facilities tucked away behind it for added privacy.

There are a selection of rooms within the Hotel that have self-catering facilities, to offer guests the chance to prepare their own refreshments and meals in the comfort of their room.

Woburn Construction Director, Don Camilleri, said: “I first saw this room design whilst on holiday in the Tyrol Valley in Austria and knew it would be perfect for the new Center Parcs Village. The rooms felt spacious but cosy and celebrated the beautiful setting. Like Center Parcs, it’s the connection with the outside that guests want, and every aspect of the room design embodies that. These comfortable and luxurious rooms offer a great opportunity for couples and friends to get closer to nature.”

There are a variety of good public transport options for those wishing to get to Center Parcs Woburn Forest. The closest station is Flitwick, which can be reached from London St Pancras in just under one hour. From there, shuttle buses can take guests from the station to the Village in just under seven minutes. In addition to this, First Capital Connect provide a discount for guests on train tickets to Flitwick.

Woburn Forest is on track to open this spring. Guests can currently book a short break for arrivals between the 20th June 2014 and the 27th April 2015.

Langham Hospitality Group has announced an agreement with DAS Real Estate to manage The Langham resort in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Located on the crescent of Palm Jumeirah and scheduled to open in 2015, this 323-room resort marks double landmark “firsts” for the Hong Kong-based hotel company: it is the group’s first foray into the Middle East and the first resort in its global collection. With the interiors designed by the Aedas Limited, The Langham, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai will showcase tasteful furnishings reflective of the brand’s heritage as one of the premier grand hotels in Europe. With a prime waterfront location directly facing the Arabian Gulf and the impressive Dubai Marina skyline, all the rooms and suites will have expansive outdoor terraces and sea-front views that will take full advantage of the emirate’s year-round sunny climes. Catering to couples and large families, the resort will have 53 well-appointed one- and two-bedroom suites that range from 63 to 236 square meters; 22 of them will feature individual plunge pools.

Designed to become one of the city’s social centres for dining, The Langham will offer guests a wide variety of innovative restaurants and bars, most of them with al fresco waterside dining. Headlining the culinary options will be Palm Court, an elegant lounge modeled after its namesake at The Langham, London – the first grand hotel to serve the traditional afternoon tea in 1865.

Other dining experiences include a Japanese restaurant, a waterfront seafood outlet, a niche breakfast room, an Arabic and Italian fusion café, an all-day restaurant featuring international buffet and a la carte selections, a beach restaurant and a juice bar that offers light snacks and refreshments. The hotel will also feature a Club Lounge offering complimentary food and beverage presentations throughout the day and dedicated concierge service.

Setting a new standard for leisure travellers, The Langham, Palm Jumeirah will feature one of the region’s largest hotel recreation facility covering almost 4,000 square meters over two floors.

For an unrivalled retreat of relaxation, the group’s signature award-winning Chuan Spa will showcase a remarkable 26 treatment rooms as well as therapies based on the sound principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM.) The expansive fitness centre features a free form pool, exercise studio, and a full range of strength- and cardio-training equipment. Catering to family holiday makers is a 445-square meter Kids Club with a fun slide, play zone and themed party area.

A distinctive feature of The Langham, Palm Jumeirah is the dedicated Travellers Lounge which will provide all the facilities and comforts for early arrival or late departure flyers. Designed as a sanctuary and an extension of the luxury resort experience, guests are welcome to take full advantage of the well-stocked library, entertainment selections, light dining service, business centre and shower/change rooms with the compliments of the resort.

Adding to the mystique, The Langham signature pink roses will be specially grown at the resort with the assistance of a refrigerated irrigation system. Native palms, fruit trees and water features will provide an oasis of serenity for guests and local visitors.

March Highlights
• Abu Dhabi occupancy levels continue to rise on the back of strong tourist demand
• Decline in average rates in Doha impact bottom line
• MICE activity pushes occupancy to 72.5% in Riyadh
• Dubai hoteliers witness profits rise to 53.3% during the first quarter of 2014
• Profitability in Cairo drops 21.9% during the first quarter of 2014

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has announced plans to début its Element brand in Bozeman. Element Bozeman will open in June of 2015 at the heart of the downtown entertainment district. Owned by a group of Bozeman investors managed by Homebase Montana, the newly constructed Element hotel will offer a smart, new option for travellers with 104 stylish, sustainable rooms and a light-filled atmosphere designed to fuel a life in balance and on the move. Element Bozeman expects to receive LEED certification soon after opening from the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. Located just one block from Historic Main Street, Element Bozeman will be ideally situated at the center of the city’s entertainment district and a ten-minute walk to the campus of Montana State University. Just 15 minutes from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), the new Element will be close to Museum of the Rockies, Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture, the city’s business district and a variety of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and night life. Celebrated for its outdoor lifestyle, Bozeman is a year-round tourist destination offering proximity to Yellowstone National Park and several world class ski areas including Big Sky Resort.

Element Bozeman will boast light-filled studios as well as one bedroom suites featuring a fluid design of modular furniture, swiveling flat-screen televisions, large desks with open shelving and custom-designed closets. Rooms will also offer fully equipped kitchens and the signature Heavenly® Bed, and spa-inspired bathrooms will feature an invigorating rain shower. Other brand signatures will include a state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness center, indoor/outdoor pool, and 900 square-foot meeting room with modular furnishings, a flexible layout and state-of-the-art technology that can be customized to meet any business or social needs. Guests can stay on the move with the Element brand’s Bikes-to-Borrow program and enjoy fun and free extras including complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, the signature RISE breakfast, RELAX evening reception, and salon bar carts stocked with premium wines and beers, soft drinks and snacks, available after hours.

Marriott International, Inc. has recently celebrated the opening of its 282-room Jixian Marriott Hotel, taking the total number of properties under its iconic Marriott Hotels brand in China to 16. Under a long-term management agreement with Saint Light Investment Group, the hotel is a pioneer in Greater China for embracing sustainable tourism.The hotel is located in Jixian which is in the northern part of Tianjin and also close to Beijing. With its proximity to a variety of leisure travel attractions including the Pan Mountain, Great Wall, golf courses, ski parks and natural parks, Jixian Marriott Hotel is an ideal choice for incentive conferences, meetings and exhibitions, wedding couples and honeymooners. It is also appealing to individual or family guests from nearby areas such as Tianjin, Beijing and Tangshan who want to take a short leisure break away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Jixian Marriott Hotel offers 282 spacious guestrooms, inclusive of 8 suites and 8 villas, that are equipped with luxurious furnishing, state-of-the-art amenities and picturesque views of Jixian resort area.

The refreshed guest experience begins on arrival with the option of quick and convenient check-in via smartphone. Jixian Marriott Hotel joins some 350 Marriott Hotels globally to offer both digital check-in and check-out, giving guests greater flexibility.

The hotel offers 1,900 square meters of meeting space that consist of one grand ballroom, one junior ballroom and eight function rooms. They are complemented with the state-of-the-art meeting facilities and technologies.

Guests can enjoy distinct food and beverage experiences within the hotel. Man Ho offers classic, authentic Cantonese cuisine in a stylish, contemporary Asian design envelope and is considered excellent, regionally relevant and accepted by the local community. Also dubbed as “The Great Room”, The Lounge has a feature bar that transitions from a coffee and pastry focus in the day to alcoholic beverages and snacks in the evening.

Other recreational amenities of the hotel include fitness centre, swimming pool, Spa with hot spring pools.

The Only Way is Essex star and Sugar Hut boss Michael Norcross has acquired the Grand Hotel Leigh-on-Sea and has obtained planning permission to turn the property, closed since 2008, into a boutique hotel and restaurant. Bob Whittle, Director at Leisure Property Specialists Fleurets, handled the deal. Michael Norcross said: “I have long admired this iconic building and dreamed of rejuvenating it to reflect the original architecture. It has been my desire to bring the quality West End hotel experience to Essex and I see this building and its location as the perfect opportunity to achieve my dream.”

“My vision is for this classical building to be used by everyone throughout the community, enjoying quality food and drink and utilising it for various events from weddings and family celebrations to art exhibitions, fashion shows and anything else which would usefully serve the region.

“The business itself will employ people from the surrounding area and I intend to source local suppliers and use the finest locally available produce.”

In 2012 Mr Norcross purchased the freehold of his Sugar Hut premises in Brentwood from Enterprise Inns for £1.3m.

The freehold of five stars Grade II-Listed hotel Kemp Townhouse in Brighton is on the market through leisure property specialists Fleurets from a guide price of £1,200,000. Private owner Mr Paul Lantsbury is selling to invest in a larger hotel.The nine-bedroom boutique hotel, awarded with five stars by the national tourism board Visit Britain, has been recently refurbished throughout and provides all the comfort of a high-end property. The new design, together with its seafront position – just 600 metres from Brighton’s Palace Pier – make it one of the most iconic guesthouses of the vibrant coastal city.

Will Thomas of Fleurets comments “The Kemp Townhouse is a superb five-storey building and an excellent example of British architecture, as it was built with the sublime aesthetic standards of 1864. The hotel has an annual net turnover of £270,000, which represent an remarkable incentive for any hotelier willing to welcome the opportunity of running the property as an owner. ”

The Kemp Townhouse features a self contained owner flat, nine newly refurbished bedrooms and a 14-cover breakfast room. An oval bay extends from the lower ground floor with a feature ornate balcony on the first floor.

For further information on the property, please contact Will Thomas at Fleurets Brighton http://www.fleurets.com/contact/south.html