Hyatt to open a Thompson branded hotel in Palm Springs.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has confirmed it will be bringing its Thompson brand to Palm Springs in California with a 168-room property scheduled to open in late 2023.

Thompson Palm Springs will offer panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains and the city of Palm Springs and will feature a modern, groundbreaking design in the heart of the city. Unique guestroom bungalows will be surrounded by two outdoor pools, gardens, lounge areas and winding walking paths, immersing visitors in the natural landscape of Palm Springs. 

Additional amenities including a signature restaurant helmed by a world-class chef, sought-after indoor and outdoor bar and lounges, a well-appointed spa and fitness concept, and approximately 8,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space.

Thompson Palm Springs will also offer over 20,000 square feet of ground-level retail and restaurant space along Downtown’s iconic Palm Canyon Drive which will include HALL Napa Valley, a 3,400 square foot tasting room from owners Craig & Kathryn Hall showcasing selections from their family of wines: HALL, WALT and BACA.

Thompson Palm Springs will be led by general manager Jeffrey Miller said:  “We are excited to welcome guests and locals to Thompson Palm Springs, which will bring-to-life the iconic spirit of the destination through striking design, innovative culinary offerings and locally inspired guest experiences.”

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Hilton launches new long-stay brand.

Hilton has released details of a new long-stay brand designed to meet the needs of the rapidly expanding $300 billion workforce travel market. Initially launching in the U.S. under the working title Project H3, the idea is to offer a lower midscale, extended-stay solution for business and working travellers, that provides a reliable and consistent foundation allowing guests to make the most out of every day.

Hilton says it has created a hotel product for a vastly underserved group of travellers looking for apartment-style accommodations for 20 nights or more, built with the staying power of Hilton’s award-winning hospitality.

“Project H3 is perfectly positioned to serve the unique needs of the long-stay traveller, thanks to its innovative design, strong value proposition for our owners and of course, the hospitality our team members offer every day,” said Chris Nassetta, president and CEO, of Hilton. “We aim to serve any guest, anywhere in the world, for any travel need they may have, and this new brand represents a greater opportunity for us to grow our portfolio while providing the reliable and friendly service our customers expect from Hilton.”

Hilton’s research shows that long-stay travellers, including travelling nurses, military personnel, and those experiencing workforce relocations, value the simple things in life, placing quality time and comfort above all else. In addition, those looking for a long stay will book an average of 20 or more nights and desire a reliable home base that allows them to maintain their routines while delivering simplicity, consistency and convenience.

This new extended-stay brand will appeal to the long-stay traveller through signature elements including:

The Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa has officially opened

The Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa has officially opened in Murcia, southeast Spain, following an extensive refurbishment.

Javier Águila, group president EAME, Hyatt, said, "We are grateful for our continued collaboration with Grupo Inversor Hesperia, in making Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa a striking example of the Grand Hyatt brand delivering on its promise of celebrating the iconic in both the small details and magnificent moments."

The CEO of Grupo Inversor Hesperia, Jordi Ferrer, highlights, “The arrival of the Grand Hyatt brand in Spain via La Manga Club is undoubtedly an important step for our company and for the Spanish tourism sector as a whole. We are convinced that with this new hotel, distinguished by the exclusiveness of its services and location, we are going to offer unique experiences to our clients and generate new value for the Murcia Region." 

Mediterranean-inspired Guestrooms

The 192 elegantly appointed guestrooms, including seven signature suites, showcase the hotel’s idyllic location overlooking the rolling hills of Calblanque natural park and the Mediterranean Sea. Each guestroom exudes luxury, elegance and sophistication featuring the latest amenities, colours inspired by the surrounding nature and spa-inspired marble bathrooms.

Recreation and Wellness

Africa’s largest hotel Gets a Grand Opening

Africa’s largest hotel Gets a Grand Opening

Ethiopian Airlines Group, the largest aviation group in Africa, holds a grand opening of the largest hotel on the African continent as it inaugurates the second phase of the Ethiopian  Skylight Hotel. Ethiopian Airlines opened the first phase of Ethiopian Skylight Hotel back in January 2019. With the new extension, the hotel now has a total of 1,024 modern rooms and suites with different room types including fully equipped apartments suitable for long and short-staying guests. 

The hotel also incorporates meeting and event facilities which can accommodate from  small to up to 5000 guests, 19 food and beverage outlets including Ethiopian, Italian,  Arabian and Asian restaurants, coffee houses, bars, recreational facilities and spots for  sips or hand-crafted cocktails with a panoramic view of the airport and the city. 

Regarding the grand opening of Ethiopian Skylight Hotel’s second phase, Ethiopian  Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said “We are truly pleased to be standing here today on the grand opening ceremony of Ethiopian Skylight Hotel’s second phase as we will now have an even greater facility to accommodate guests. Above all we are thrilled with the accomplishment as it takes our contribution to Ethiopia’s tourism sector a step higher. The hotel is suitable to accommodate both business and leisure events and stays. Skylight Hotel has been providing a wide range of luxury experiences to its guests and with the completion of the second phase more five-star facilities and experiences will be available. With Skylight Hotel having more than 1000 rooms  and several other facilities, we can now proudly say that we have the largest hotel in the African  continent”

Located in the diplomatic capital of Africa, Addis Ababa, home to UNECA and AU  headquarters, Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, stands within a prime location at just 5 minutes’ walk from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. The hotel is built to be a suitable space for both business and social event gatherings.  

Construction of phase two of the project had been ongoing while the hotel’s services were open and available for guests through the first phase of Ethiopian Skylight facility.  It is also to be recalled that Ethiopian inaugurated a Five-Star In-Terminal Hotel which is set to take passengers' transit experience at Ababa Bole International Airport to a whole new level with 97 modern and luxurious rooms, a restaurant, a meeting space, and other facilities within the airport Departure Terminal 2 back in September 2022 which is managed under Ethiopian Skylight Hotel.  

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Embassy Suites by Hilton Panama City Beach Resort Opens

The St. Joe Company and Hilton announce the opening of the 255-suite Embassy Suites by Hilton Panama City Beach Resort. The resort is located in the popular Pier Park shopping and entertainment district with unobstructed views of the Gulf of Mexico available from each of its five floors.

The resort features a Gulf-view pool complex with a waterslide and hot tub, a business center, a fitness center and approximately 15,500 square feet of meeting and event space. Additionally, the resort is home to two restaurants, Blu Bar & Grill serving lunch and dinner with both indoor and outdoor seating, and Fin, which provides guests with complimentary hot breakfast. Vue 55, the fifth-floor, open-air event venue, is available for weddings and group functions and boasts sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Russell-Fields Pier.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Panama City Beach Resort’s 255 suites are a mix of one- and two-bedroom suites, including two-bedroom family suites and multi-room suites with bunkbeds. The resort’s Five Feet to Fitness™ suites enable guests to work out in the privacy of their suite with access to a variety of fitness equipment.

Andaz Nanjing Hexi opens

Hyatt Hotels in association with Sun Hung Kai Properties has confirmed the opening of Andaz Nanjing Hexi, the fourth Andaz property in the region. It is located in the rapidly developing Hexi central business district area and is ideal for exploring the city and local area. 

Andaz Nanjing Hexi boasts stunning views of the city and Yangtze River from its prime position atop Nanjing Metro Yuantong station of Line2 and Line10. As part of the most sought-after landmark Nanjing IFC, the hotel, together with two super grade-A office towers and the luxury shopping mall with top-notch international brands in the complex, create a one-stop destination of premium business, shopping, dining, entertaining and living experiences. With its perfect blend of Nanjing’s eclectic spirit, rich culture, and the vibrant character of the modern neighbourhood the property resides in, Andaz Nanjing Hexi serves as an exciting new destination for curious travellers and locals to explore and experience.

“SHKP has always been committed to developing and operating premium landmark projects. As an integral part of the Group’s flagship project Nanjing IFC, the newly opening Andaz Nanjing Hexi, along with two world-class office towers and the luxury IFC mall in the complex, will further reshape the business dynamics and economic vitality of the city, renewing a sense of glamour to this culturally rich destination,” says Albert Lau, Executive Director of Sun Hung Kai Properties.

“We are very pleased to have an Andaz hotel join our hotel portfolio. It is a new-generation luxury brand created for the young and the young at heart. We believe the hotel will inject color and vibrance to the whole IFC complex and Hexi as we welcome people from all over China and the world to spend a memorable time in Nanjing,” says Tasos Kousloglou, CEO - Hotel division of Sun Hung Kai Properties Limited.

“We are thrilled by this introduction of the vibrant Andaz brand to the Hexi CBD area,” said Stephen Ho, president of growth and operations for Asia Pacific, Hyatt. “This location is perfect for our inspiring Andaz brand, providing guests the opportunity to experience Nanjing’s rich culture. We sincerely appreciate our hotel owner, Sun Hung Kai Properties, for their support with entrusting Hyatt for this new hotel.”

Contemporary Design Rooted in Local Culture

Hilton's first quarter results for 2023 released.

The hotel and hospitality giant, Hilton Worldwide Holdings, has just released details of its first quarter 2023 results which show the firm amassed a net income of $209 million.  The company added 9,200 rooms to Hilton's system in the first quarter, resulting in 5,300 net additional rooms in Hilton's system during the period and approved 24,900 new rooms for development, bringing Hilton's development pipeline to 428,100 rooms as of March 31, 2023

Hilton repurchased 3.2 million shares of Hilton common stock during the first quarter, bringing total capital return, including dividends, to $487 million for the quarter and more than $602 million year to date through April.

Full-year 2023 system-wide RevPAR is expected to increase between 8 percent and 11 percent on a comparable and currency-neutral basis compared to 2022; full-year net income is projected to be between $1,331 million and $1,385 million; full-year Adjusted EBITDA is projected to be between $2,875 million and $2,950 million. Full-year 2023 capital return is projected to be between $1.8 billion and $2.2 billion.

Christopher J. Nassetta, President & Chief Executive Officer of Hilton, said, "We carried strong momentum into 2023, exceeding the high end of our guidance for system-wide RevPAR, driving strong bottom-line results and delivering meaningful free cash flow available for return to our shareholders. As a result of our strong performance and positive outlook, we are raising our Adjusted EBITDA guidance for the full year."

In the first quarter of 2023, Hilton opened 64 new hotels totalling 9,200 rooms and achieved net unit growth of 5,300 rooms. Additionally, Hilton started construction on over 19,000 hotel rooms during the first quarter, continuing the positive momentum from the end of 2022, particularly in China. Further, Hilton continued to achieve development milestones during the first quarter, opening the 100th Tapestry Collection by Hilton, as well as its 500th hotel in China. 

The Incline Lodge: North Lake Tahoe’s Only Newly Renovated Boutique Hotel to Debut Summer 2023

The Incline Lodge, a 38-room mountain modern-inspired boutique hotel, will debut early summer as Incline Village’s first and only boutique hotel property. Located adjacent to The Hyatt Regency Hotel on Lake Tahoe’s north shore, the family-owned Incline Lodge is poised to provide a new year-round accommodation option and is now accepting reservations with availability starting July 1, 2023 for Lake Tahoe travelers and locals alike.

Formerly The Parkside Inn, The Incline Lodge has undergone extensive renovations complete with a sophisticated mountain modern aesthetic, custom designed finishes, enhanced acoustical treatments, and AC in every room. The property will also feature three exceptional amenity spaces including a new 1,000-square-foot lobby offering beer, wine, and elevated grab & go food, a downstairs concierge lounge that can accommodate private parties of up to 39 people and an indoor heated pool. Guests will also enjoy a technology driven guest journey with contactless check-in along with kind and knowledgeable staff.

“The vision for The Incline Lodge is to create a place of inspiration where people can create lifelong memories in one of the most beautiful places, and one of the best communities, in the world,” said owners and Incline Village-based residents Natasha and Ali Warner.

Pivot Expands Portfolio with Two Boutique Hotels on the Jersey Shore

Kushner Companies taps award-winning management company to operate Wave Resort and The Bungalow

Pivot, the lifestyle operating vertical of Davidson Hospitality Group, has been selected by Kushner Companies to operate the Wave Resort and The Bungalow. Situated in the heart of Pier Village in Long Branch, New Jersey along the iconic boardwalk, the 67-room Wave Resort features an oceanfront pool deck; Wave Resort Spa and fitness centre; 7,000 square feet of event space, and three distinct dining experiences. Also located in Pier Village, The Bungalow is comprised of 24 rooms and fully equipped suites with kitchenettes; an art gallery featuring work from local artists; 1,000 square feet of event space and a unique cocktail lounge.

"We are honoured to welcome these exceptional properties to our growing family," said Rick Colangelo, Executive Vice President, Pivot. "Through enhanced operations, robust group sales efforts, strategic revenue management, and optimization of the food & beverage concepts, we look forward to elevating both hotels with genuine heart to embolden a truly authentic experience."

"The Wave Resort and The Bungalow offer a genuinely reimagined Jersey Shore experience through modern architecture, design and exclusive amenities," said Nicole Kushner Meyer, President, Kushner Companies. "We were inspired by the Pivot team's deep understanding of the lifestyle space and proven track record of success gaining market share and maximizing seasonal demand drivers at like-minded hotels. The future is bright, and we are excited to leverage their well-rounded expertise to drive performance and profitability."

Pier Village, deemed as one of New Jersey's most luxurious oceanfront and dining destinations, is an award-winning mixed-use beachfront Victorian-inspired community, featuring more than 30 esteemed restaurants, shops and services.

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Happy 50th birthday to Drury Hotels .......

Drury Hotels turns 50.....

Drury Hotels Company, the family-owned and operated hospitality group, celebrates fifty years of warm welcomes this month. 

In 1973, the Drury family opened the first Drury Inn in Sikeston, Missouri and the company has grown to 150 hotels in 26 states. Drury Hotels include Drury Inn & Suites, Drury Inns, Drury Plaza Hotels, and Pear Tree Inns.

"Since our founding, we've been guided by the simple promise to provide our customers with clean rooms, friendly service, and a good night's sleep at an honest price," said Chuck Drury, President & CEO. "Fifty years later, that promise still stands with almost 6,000 team members dedicated to ensuring our guests Travel Happy."

Drury Hotels continually focuses on providing the best value for guests. In 2003, they were among the first in the hotel industry to offer free hot breakfast to their guests and followed up in 2010 by introducing free 5:30 Kickback®, with dinnertime snacks and cold beverages. As its latest enhancement, Drury Hotels recently introduced The Kitchen + Bar for late-night dining options at 16 Drury Hotels, with plans to add eight more by the end of 2024.

In 2022, Drury Hotels earned a record-breaking 17th consecutive J.D. Power award for Highest in Guest Satisfaction Among Upper Mid-Scale Hotel Chains. Drury Hotels' J.D. Power distinction sets a record for the most consecutive wins in the travel and hospitality category.

Continued Growth

Last December, Drury Hotels opened the 604-room Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando located within the Disney Springs® Area, an Official Walt Disney World® Hotel. In the past five years, Drury Hotels has opened 16 new hotels including downtown Nashville Tenn., Milwaukee Wis., Richmond Va., St. Paul Minn., and Dallas Texas. In addition, three new hotels are currently under construction in Tallahassee Fla., Savannah Ga., and Arlington Texas.

IHG and AWC extend long-term strategic partnership with second Kimpton signing

IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hospitality companies, is proud to announce Kimpton Pattaya, as an exciting extension of its long-standing partnership with Asset World Corp Public Company Limited or AWC in Thailand.

New-build Kimpton Pattaya grows successful collaboration to 1,250 rooms across six properties and three brands

 

The agreement is another major milestone in the relationship between IHG and AWC – renowned as being the Kingdom’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group, with a stellar track record in market-leading tourist destinations. This will be their second collaboration for a Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants property in the country.

The strategic partnership between IHG and AWC already includes five outstanding properties: the highly-anticipated 302-room InterContinental Chiang Mai Mae Ping which will open this year: two hotels in Bangkok’s Chinatown – the 332-room InterContinental Bangkok Chinatown and 63-room Vignette Collection Bangkok Chinatown; the 234-room Vignette Collection Pattaya; and 124-room Kimpton Hua Hin.

Rajit Sukumaran, Managing Director, South East Asia and Korea, IHG said: “Our partnership with AWC goes from strength to strength and, thanks to this latest collaboration for Kimpton Pattaya, together we have now signed 1,250 rooms across six fantastic properties in the past three years, in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and Pattaya.

“This will be the fifth Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants property signed in Thailand which shows the confidence owners have in the brand. Together with Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Kimpton Kitalay Samui and the upcoming Kimpton Khao Yai and Kimpton Hua Hin, the brand already has a strong following amongst affluent and discerning travellers.

“I’m delighted that Kimpton Pattaya is joining Vignette Collection Pattaya – also situated in Aquatique Pattaya – and two open hotels – InterContinental Pattaya and Holiday Inn Pattaya – in the district, establishing IHG as a market leader in Pattaya.”

MCR — the 4th-largest hotel owner-operator in the U.S. — has acquired the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon

MCR — the 4th-largest hotel owner-operator in the U.S. — has acquired the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon, a 14-story hotel with 508 rooms in Miami, Florida. With a prime waterfront setting within the Blue Lagoon business park, the hotel is located just south of Miami International Airport (MIA). This is the company’s second hotel in the Miami airport submarket following the acquisition of the Hyatt Place Miami Airport East in December of 2022 and its tenth hotel in Florida.

MIA is the busiest airport for international passengers and international freight in the U.S. and provides a hub for over 90 air carriers. International traffic continues to ramp back up following the pandemic and overall passenger volume through MIA was up over 10% in 2022 compared to 2019 based on the latest data available. And with a $5 billion capital improvement and expansion plan underway, it’s only going to get busier.

Tourism remains the top industry in “the 305,” but it is also home to the largest concentration of international banks in the U.S., as well as many major Fortune 500 companies. With its prime location near the airport, the Blue Lagoon business park has over four million square feet of office space and serves as the headquarters for nationally recognized names including Burger King and Lennar, as well serving as the Latin American headquarters for Sony, Airbus, Novartis, Hasbro, Estée Lauder and Olympus.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has confirmed the completion of the Dream Hotel Group lifestyle hotel brand and management platform acquisition

The addition of Dream Hotel Group further strengthens Hyatt’s global lifestyle footprint and accelerates asset-light growth

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has confirmed the completion of the Dream Hotel Group lifestyle hotel brand and management platform acquisition, bringing a vibrant portfolio of lifestyle hotel brands – including Dream Hotels, The Chatwal and Unscripted Hotels – into the Hyatt portfolio. The asset-light acquisition includes 12 lifestyle hotels (nine managed and three licensed), with another 24 signed long-term management agreements for hotels expected to open in the future.

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Dream Hotel Group properties are known for their progressive design and vibrant dining and nightlife that are the soul of each hotel. They boast unique and authentic hospitality experiences built on inventive activations and design-savvy spaces that inspire creativity and act as social hubs for guests as well as local communities.

The acquisition welcomes more than 600 new colleagues into the Hyatt family, bringing deep expertise in experiential hospitality to Hyatt’s global portfolio of lifestyle offerings and extending Hyatt’s brand footprint in strategic destinations including Nashville, Hollywood, Las Vegas, South Beach, Saint Lucia, Doha and several new locations new in New York City. It will also include new markets such as the Catskills in New York and Valle de Guadalupe in Mexico.

“Hyatt’s acquisition of Dream Hotel Group represents an exciting chapter in our asset-light growth as we expand our lifestyle offerings, providing global travellers with an increased number of elevated experiences – now, and in the future,” said Mark Hoplamazian, president and chief executive officer, Hyatt. “Together, we will carefully preserve the spirit and individual identities of the sought-after Dream Hotel Group hotels while adding the commercial strength of Hyatt’s marketing and sales channels, all united under the World of Hyatt loyalty program.”

Dream Hotel Group founder Sant Singh Chatwal will continue his commitment as an owner of four open and two future hotels that are expected to join the Hyatt portfolio.

2022 Historic Hotels of America Annual Awards of Excellence Winners Announced

Historic Hotels of America is pleased to announce the winners of the 2022 Historic Hotels of America Annual Awards of Excellence. The Historic Hotels Awards of Excellence recognize and celebrate the finest historic hotels and hoteliers from across the United States of America and around the world.

Recipients were announced and honoured at a special evening Ceremony and Gala at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection in Point Clear, Alabama, on Thursday, November 17, 2022. The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa (1847) has been known as The Queen of Southern Resorts for 175 years and is set on 550 acres next to Mobile Bay. Awards were presented before an audience of more than 200 industry leaders, owners, senior management, and representatives of the world’s finest historic hotels.

Seventeen Historic Hotels of America Annual Awards of Excellence were given in multiple categories ranging from Historic Hotels of America Historic Hotelier of the Year, Historic Hotels of America Hotel Historian of the Year, Historic Hotels of America Best Historic Resort, Historic Hotels of America Lifetime Achievement Award, and others.

Winners were selected from nominations by historic hotels, preservation supporters, prior award recipients, community leaders, and leadership from Historic Hotels of America. As an official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Historic Hotels of America provides the recognition to travellers, civic leaders, and the global cultural, heritage, and historic travel market that member hotels are among the finest historic hotels from across the United States of America. The Historic Hotels Annual Awards of Excellence program recognizes the pinnacle of this distinct group of nominees in a range of categories.

From over 350 nominations, the awards committee evaluated the nominee finalists and, after careful consideration, selected the 2022 Historic Hotels of America Annual Awards of Excellence award winners:

Historic Hotels Worldwide names the winners of the 2022 Historic Hotels Worldwide Annual Awards of Excellence

Historic Hotels Worldwide is pleased to announce the winners of the 2022 Historic Hotels Worldwide Annual Awards of Excellence. The Historic Hotels Awards of Excellence recognize and celebrate the finest historic hotels and hoteliers from around the world.

Recipients were honoured at a special evening Ceremony and Gala at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection in Point Clear, Alabama, on Thursday, November 17, 2022. The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa (1847) has been known as The Queen of Southern Resorts for 175 years and is set on 550 acres next to Mobile Bay. Awards were presented before an audience of more than 200 industry leaders, owners, senior management, and representatives of the finest historic hotels in operation today.

Nine Historic Hotels Worldwide Annual Awards of Excellence were presented, including awards for Best Historic Hotels Worldwide Hotel in Europe, Best Historic Hotels Worldwide Hotel in Asia / Pacific, and Best Historic Hotels Worldwide Hotel in the Americas.

Winners were selected from nominations by historic hotels, preservation supporters, prior award recipients, community leaders, and leadership from Historic Hotels Worldwide. As a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Historic Hotels Worldwide provides the recognition to travellers, civic leaders, and the global cultural, heritage, and historic travel market that member hotels are among the finest historic hotels in the world. The Historic Hotels Annual Awards of Excellence program recognizes the pinnacle of this distinct group of nominees in a range of categories.

From over 350 nominations, the awards committee evaluated the nominee finalists and, after careful consideration, selected the 2022 Historic Hotels Worldwide Annual Awards of Excellence award winners:

Historic Hotels Worldwide New Member of the Year

This award is presented to a new member hotel that best demonstrates immediate engagement, activation, and passionate support of Historic Hotels Worldwide.

Winner: Solar do Castelo (18th century) Lisbon, Portugal.

Historic Hotels Worldwide Best Social Media of a Historic Hotel

This award is presented to a hotel that actively engages consumers by sharing the best of its history through social media, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram with interesting historical facts and stories.

Winner: Hotel Maximilian’s (1722) Augsburg, Germany

Historic Hotels Worldwide Sustainability Champion

This award is presented to a hotel that best implements and practices innovative green initiatives and programs, demonstrating historic preservation is the ultimate green.

Winner: Dromoland Castle Hotel (1014) Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare, Ireland

Historic Hotels Worldwide Legendary Family Historic Hoteliers of the Year

This award is presented to a multi-generational family ownership entity or management company which has served as an exemplary role model in the operation of the historic hotels entrusted to its stewardship, has demonstrated a long-term legacy of commitment to historic preservation, and has been an active champion of Historic Hotels Worldwide.

Winner: The Dietrich-Kienberger Family at Hotel Waldhaus Sils (1908) Sils Maria, Switzerland.

Historic Hotels Worldwide Best City Center Historic Hotel
This award is presented to a hotel located in a city center that best celebrates its history in the guest experience and provides exceptional customer hospitality and service.
Winner: Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian (1903) Edinburgh, Scotland, U.K.

2023 Brits Travel Trends Revealed: Road Trips, Culture, Wellbeing and Technology

Nearly a quarter (23%) of Brits say they will be making mostly road trips next year, while wellness (46%) and connecting to local cultures (50%) are the most important aspects of travel as they look to 2023

67% are also looking to technology to make travelling in 2023 seamless, with one in five (21%) wanting to use technology within their hotel stay, such as digital room keys and mobile check-in services

Research also reveals that there is likely to be a travel surge – as 59% of the nation are looking to travel more next year compared to 2022 

The new research comes as Hilton releases its 2023 Trends Report, a global study unpacking how traveller needs and interests are changing – with key themes uncovered as prioritising wellbeing, learning about local cultures, and using technology to create seamless stays

                       If 2022 was the year of the changed traveller, 2023 is set to be the year of the evolved traveller, as Hilton releases its latest global Trends Report: The 2023 Traveler: Emerging Trends that are Innovating the Travel Experience, A Report from Hilton, today. 

New research from Hilton shows that Brits are looking to immerse themselves in local culture, prioritise personal wellness, take to the road, and become more tech-focused as they travel next year.

2023 is set to be the year of invigorated travel – with travel at top of mind for over half of Brits (59%) who are set to travel more in the next year compared to 2022.

Staycations Are Here To Stay

The pandemic prompted the re-emergence of staycations and is no surprise that this trend will continue, with one-fifth (23%) looking to explore the best of Britain through road trips in 2023.  

With so much to explore, from the Cornish coast to the Scottish Highlands, holidaymakers will be spoilt for choice as they look forward to next year. 

Culture Vulture

Keeping it local is even a trend for those looking to venture further afield, with nearly a third of Brits (29%) stating that immersing themselves in the local culture is a top priority when on holiday. 

Nearly a quarter (23%) even states that being able to support the local community and culture is what they will consider the most when it comes to travelling in 2023. 

Holiday Self-Care

A focus on health and wellness is often high on new year’s resolutions lists, and this is a top trend for travel, too – as over half of Brits (54%) see travel as a key part of their wellness routine – with a third of Brits looking for travel experiences that allow them to escape the stress of everyday life (32%).

The importance of wellness even plays into the type of accommodation they pick, with Brits selecting holidays based on addressing mental (31%) and physical (32%) wellness, having healthy options to eat and drink (40%), access to fitness activities or facilities (44%) and unique spa treatments (19%).

With this trend in mind, travel experts at Hilton are predicting to see an increase in holidays to more remote and secluded locations such as Legacy Hotel Cascais, Curio Collection by Hilton, which is nearby Portugal’s capital Lisbon; Hilton Garden Inn Da Nang in central Vietnam; and Hilton Skanes Monastir Beach Resort, on Tunisia’s central coast.

Smart Tech for Smooth Travel

Hilton anticipates tech will become an integral part of travel – with 67% of Brits caring most about ease and technology where travel is concerned, and one in five (21%) wanting technology to be used throughout a hotel stay to ensure a seamless stay.

For a frictionless travel experience, Hilton’s Digital Key allows travellers to bypass the front desk and go straight to their rooms. Additionally, enhanced booking options like Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton allows families and friends to reserve adjoining rooms when booking online.

Rise of Bleisure Trips

The nation is set to see a rise in ‘Bleisure’ trips – where Brits will blend work and travel needs to maximise on time and experiences. 

Work environments are being seen in a new light – the traditional office is becoming a thing of the past, as one in 10 plan to work remotely while travelling in 2023 (10%).  

“In 2022, motivated travellers sought out new experiences around the world and reconnected with the people and places they love,” said Chris Nassetta, president and chief executive officer, Hilton. "The 2023 Trends Report showcases travellers’ evolving preferences and how eager and optimistic they are about their future adventures. Our Hilton team members are ready to welcome them and create a great stay experience at our more than 7,000 properties worldwide.”

Stories.Hilton.com/2023Trends

Methodology 

Consumer research conducted by Material with 1,002 UK adults. The survey took place between August 23 - 30, 2022, on behalf of Hilton. 

Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to determine the emerging trends detailed in this report. Hilton conducted stakeholder interviews across the organization to gain perspectives on what travel looks like today and determine what is top of mind going into 2023. Business Divisions included: Business Travel/Events, Food & Beverage, Wellness, Sustainability, Design, Digital Innovation, Workplace Culture. In addition, Hilton commissioned an online omnibus survey with Material, fielded in August 2022 among general population consumers 18+ years of age in several markets with questions targeting behaviour related to travel. Specifically, the survey was fielded to: n=1,002 in Australia, n=1,002 in China, n=1,002 in Germany, n=1,002 in Japan, n=1,002 in Mexico, n=1,002 in the U.K. and n=1,018 in the U.S. Additionally, a Hilton Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research (www.wakefieldresearch.com) among 1,000 U.S. Adult Travelers, between August 23rd and August 30th, 2022, using an email invitation and an online survey. This data has been weighted to ensure an accurate representation of U.S. travellers. “Travelers” are defined as those who took a trip in the past 24 months that required an overnight stay.

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Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Terrace Opens

Marriott Vacation Club — a global industry leader in Vacation Ownership and brand of Marriott Vacations Worldwide has officially opened Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Terrace. The brand’s second vacation ownership property in Bali is perched in the hills of the island’s southernmost region, roughly 20 minutes away from the airport and near the area’s most popular beaches and cultural sites.

“We had long ago set our sights on making Bali a destination available to both our owners and guests, and we are excited to be opening our second property here. Last year, Tripadvisor named Bali the most popular global destination, which is no surprise as it is known around the world for its pristine white sand beaches and vibrant culture, all enhanced by the warmth of Balinese locals,” says John Geller, President of Marriott Vacations Worldwide. “We know travellers are looking for more flexibility and independence on how they spend their vacation, and by expanding our Vacation Club portfolio, we have deepened our footprint in the Asia-Pacific region, and we’re making bucket-list destinations like Bali more approachable.”

The Resort

Tucked away in the tranquil community of Nusa Dua, Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Terrace combines the best of vacation ownership and a lifestyle resort experience. The resort features 88 units offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom luxury apartments designed to feel like a private residence with a spacious living area, fully equipped kitchen, separate bedroom suite with a spa-like bathroom, and outdoor terrace with a private plunge pool. Each apartment’s interior features artfully blended rich hues and intricate wood carvings as well as pillows, throws, and other décor with colourful patterns, gold accents, and diverse textures to reflect the joy and spirit of local Balinese culture – specifically, the annual Galungan Celebration, which is one of the island’s most important traditions. Apartment amenities include a refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, and in-unit washer and dryer, with baby/toddler items such as cribs and highchairs available upon request.

“Whether visiting for a family vacation, romantic getaway, or to work remotely from a dream destination, our owners and guests can curate their own version of paradise thanks to the premium travel experience our apartments provide,” says Novi Murad, general manager of Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Terrace. “The co-located Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua Resort provides authentic Balinese wellness experiences, all-day dining, and hands-on activities inspired by the region. Once owners and guests get a feel for the Marriott Vacation Club experience, they can also visit our new sales gallery on property where they can learn about the benefits of vacation ownership with Marriott Vacation Club.”

Owners and guests of Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Terrace have full access to the shared amenities at the co-located Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua Resort. The 5-star hotel currently features:

Hotel group Scandic has opened the doors to its fifth hotel in Germany, Scandic München Macherei.

Hotel group Scandic has opened the doors to its fifth hotel in Germany, Scandic München Macherei.



Scandinavian chic meets Bavarian hospitality

The hotel, which has 234 rooms, is attractively located in Munich’s lively “Die Macherei” quarter in the Berg am Laim district. With its modern tile and brick facade and Nordic-inspired interior, the new hotel will offer global travellers unique hotel experiences.


- Die Macherei is a district for movers and shakers – a creative place where ideas are brought to life. Munich is also an important strategic location for us, so it’s exciting to be opening Scandic’s first hotel in the city. We’re continuing our growth strategy of expanding in Germany’s largest cities. Scandic München Macherei complements our German portfolio at a time when leisure and business travellers have returned in large numbers to our hotels, says Michel Schutzbach, Head of Europe at Scandic Hotels.



The hotel features airy living room-style lounges and spacious co-working areas. Conventional conference rooms have also been replaced by two private rooms that are ideal for shorter meetings. With its international yet Scandinavian-Bavarian feel, the hotel restaurant, Zieglerei, will be a modern meeting place for hotel guests and locals alike.





- I’m very much looking forward to bringing a new type of hotel experience to Munich. We’ve placed great emphasis on creating a sense of community here at Scandic München Macherei and in addition to chic and comfortable hotel rooms, we offer spacious lounge areas for relaxing, coworking, socializing and for private events and seasonal usage, a rooftop terrace with a stunning view of the Alps. Together with my outstanding team, we’re ready to welcome guests to enjoy truly great hotel experiences, says Carina Antic, General Manager at Scandic München Macherei.


The building will also be certified according to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), an international sustainability assessment system, meeting the requirements for LEED Gold. The purpose of the certification is to provide an independent environmental assessment of the building for guests, society and other stakeholders. The certification system assesses several important sustainability aspects, such as biodiversity, water conservation, energy and resource efficiency as well as the ability of indoor spaces to provide good daylight, air and sound environments.


As at all Scandic hotels, sustainability is a central part of Scandic München Macherei. The hotel is aimed to be ecolabeled according to the Nordic Swan Ecolabel’s tough new criteria when the ecolabel is introduced in Germany. Ecolabeled products, chemicals and 100 percent renewable electricity, the absence of single-use disposables, reduced water consumption, a climate-friendly menu and reduced food waste forms the basis for certification. The hotel is also located near mobility-sharing facilities, excellent public transportation options and e-charging stations located in the public underground garage.




Scandic München Macherei is Scandic’s fifth hotel in Germany and the ninth hotel that the company has opened in 2022. The hotel will strengthen Scandic’s presence on the German hotel market and following the opening, the company will operate a total of 1,645 rooms in the country.


Facts about Scandic München Macherei


234 rooms
24 accessible rooms
Zieglerei restaurant and bar, seating for 152
Private meeting rooms, maximum capacity 20 (10 persons each room)
Coworking Lounge
Gym
Architect, interior: Koncept
Architect, exterior: HWKN New York
Property owner: Bayerische Versorgungskammer / Universal Investments
Construction: Art Invest / Accumulata
Construction years: 2019 – 2022

Second Selina hotel opens in Mexico....

Located in Tulum's downtown area, this new destination is perfect for travellers searching for a tropical getaway or a new place to call home.....

-Selina, the fast-growing lifestyle and experiential hospitality company targeting millennial and Gen Z travellers, announced it officially opened its newest location in downtown Tulum last week on October 3rd. The hotel — the second for the brand in the Tulum area -- is perfect for today's digital nomad and the modern traveller. Selina Tulum Downtown offers guests alternative ways to stay, play and work by combining beautifully designed accommodations with coworking, recreation, wellness, and unique local experiences.

This new Quintana Roo getaway provides digital nomads with an ideal option to live a unique lifestyle in the center of one of Mexico's top beach destinations. Perfect for travellers looking for a quick vacation or a new home base for remote working, the hotel offers a collection of private room options allowing guests to personalize their stay based on their budget. Unlike its counterpart in Tulum's resort area, this new space is defined as an experience focused on personal, physical, and mental well-being and exploring and appreciating the area's rich culture.

Selina Tulum Downtown marks the 12th Selina hotel in Mexico. The hotel will offer an onsite coworking facility, bookstore, gym, pool, spa, rooftop bar, and restaurant, opening in phases in the following months. It will also have the classic Selina hotel activities such as yoga, dance classes, surfing, and tours, as well as a shuttle service to and from Selina Tulum with its well-known beach club.

Don't forget to visit our sister site Air101.co.uk to find out about all things aviation.

Hyatt Centric Sector 17 Chandigarh has opened

The 144-room property is Hyatt's second hotel in the city, and the fourth Hyatt Centric hotel in India

The Hyatt Centric Sector 17 Chandigarh has opened in recent days the group confirmed. It should be noted that as a company and a brand, Hyatt has chosen to pull out of Ukraine but continues to operate in Russia and support the Russian authorities.

The Hyatt Centric Sector 17 Chandigarh plays homage to French architect Le Corbusier who designed the city along with Pierre Jeanneret, Jane Drew, and Maxwell Fry, and the hotel celebrates both Corbusier’s design philosophy and the vibrant and bold culture of Punjab.

Built for the adventurous spirit, Hyatt Centric Sector 17 Chandigarh connects guests with the vibrant action throughout Chandigarh, with the city's popular parks, cafes, shopping plazas and restaurants. “We are extremely pleased to introduce the Hyatt Centric brand to Punjab and Haryana with the opening of this hotel, and we look forward to delivering the brand’s exquisite hospitality and personalized service to local residents and visitors in the City Beautiful,” said Maulina Gupta, general manager, Hyatt Centric Sector 17 Chandigarh. “Hyatt Centric Sector 17 Chandigarh is an exciting addition to Hyatt’s portfolio of hotels and brands in India, with its contemporary décor and playful design.”

Hyatt Centric Sector 17 Chandigarh, ideally situated in the city’s commercial and shopping district, has 144 guest rooms with modern and contemporary decor. Both the outer façade and the interior design of the hotel reflect Le Corbusier's minimalistic style, interspersed with splashes of vibrant colour like the shades of yellow in the lobby and the red in the elevators. The décor is distinctive and includes various details such as the flute panelling on the walls which is inspired by French architecture, the contemporary bedside lamps adapted from inverted urns to the “Chandigarh chairs” which are placed around the property. There are 138 guestrooms and six suites in the hotel, perfect for families travelling together or business travellers on the go.