Hyatt set to open new Andaz hotel in Miami

Following a property-wide renovation, luxury lifestyle hotel Andaz Miami Beach is slated to open in late 2024, with reimagined spaces, programming and a new culinary collaboration with Jose Andrés Group.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, announced an update on the anticipated renovation of The Confidante Miami Beach and its complete transformation into the new Andaz Miami Beach, which is slated to open in the fourth quarter of 2024. The new hotel, which is owned by Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc., will go beyond the familiar to discover and define guests’ personal essence while immersing themselves in the spirit of the eclectic culture around them through a barrier-free redesigned lobby, two reconceptualized pools and outdoor recreation experience, an exhilarating spa, inspiring guestrooms, suites and meeting spaces, and immersive dining experiences with the hotel’s new culinary provider, José Andrés Group. As part of the hotel’s transformation the iconic oceanfront property will temporarily suspend operations starting Monday, March 25, 2024, through the conclusion of the renovation.

"We are thrilled to unveil this new chapter for Hyatt as our hotel becomes the Andaz Miami Beach, blending the essence of Miami Beach with the allure of imaginative travel to stimulate guests’ curiosity and self-expression,” said Amy Johnson, general manager, of Andaz Miami Beach. “This exciting journey brings the luxury lifestyle Andaz brand to Florida along with exciting collaborations like Jose Andres Group. We look forward to welcoming back our guests and local community to a completely new and bold hotel, embodying the distinctly native experience and expressive nature of the Andaz brand, while still capturing the essence of Miami Beach.”

Marcus Hotels & Resorts, Hempel Real Estate and Robinson Park Close Acquisition of Loews Minneapolis Hotel

The 251-room property will be rebranded as The Lofton Hotel under the Tapestry Collection by Hilton flag; Marcus Hotels & Resorts to manage the property.

Marcus Hotels & Resorts, a nationally recognized owner and management company and division of The Marcus Corporation announced this week that it, Hempel Real Estate, and Robinson Park have closed on the acquisition of the Loews Minneapolis Hotel. The property will be managed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, effective today, and will be rebranded immediately as The Lofton Hotel under the Tapestry Collection by Hilton flag, making it the first Tapestry Collection hotel in Minnesota. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“Since 1993, Marcus Hotels & Resorts has been invested in elevating the travel and leisure experience in Minneapolis, a city we greatly admire and appreciate,” said Michael Evans, president of Marcus Hotels & Resorts. “The Lofton Hotel’s chic design, incredible location, and ample amenities create a welcoming destination for travellers visiting the Twin Cities and experiencing all they have to offer. With The Lofton Hotel now part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton platform, we look forward to welcoming our new associates to the Marcus Hotels & Resorts family and providing our guests with the high-quality service and experience for which Hilton and we are known. We also look forward to playing an active part in the continued resurgence of the downtown business and social community.”

Hyatt Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Results

Record Total Fee Revenue Led to the Highest Cash Flow from Operations in Company History

Full Year System-Wide RevPAR Increased 17%

Hyatt Hotels Corporation last week reported fourth quarter and full year 2023 financial results. Highlights includes:

Net income was $26 million in the fourth quarter and $220 million for the full year of 2023, and exceeded the full year outlook for 2023. Adjusted net income was $68 million in the fourth quarter and $276 million for the full year of 2023.

Diluted EPS was $0.25 in the fourth quarter and $2.05 for the full year of 2023. Adjusted Diluted EPS was $0.64 in the fourth quarter and $2.56 for the full year of 2023.

Adjusted EBITDA was $241 million in the fourth quarter and $1,029 million for the full year of 2023, and exceeded the full year outlook range for 2023.

Adjusted EBITDA does not include Net Deferrals and Net Financed Contracts of $33 million1 in the fourth quarter or Net Deferrals and Net Financed Contracts of $158 million1 for the full year of 2023.

Comparable system-wide RevPAR increased 9.1% in the fourth quarter and 17.0% for the full year of 2023, compared to the same periods in 2022, and exceeded the full year outlook for 2023.

Comparable owned and leased hotels RevPAR increased 5.9% in the fourth quarter and 15.5% for the full year of 2023, compared to the same periods in 2022. Comparable owned and leased hotels operating margin was 26.2% in the fourth quarter and 25.4% for the full year of 2023.

Comparable Net Package RevPAR increased 11.3% in the fourth quarter and 15.3% for the full year of 2023 compared to the same periods in 2022.

Net Rooms Growth was 5.9% for the full year of 2023, in line with the full year outlook for 2023.

Pipeline of executed management or franchise contracts was approximately 127,000 rooms.

Share Repurchases were approximately 890 thousand Class A shares for $95 million in the fourth quarter and approximately 4.1 million Class A shares for $453 million for the full year of 2023.

Capital Returns to Shareholders were $500 million for the full year of 2023, inclusive of dividends and share repurchases, in line with the full year outlook for 2023.

1 Represents the sum of Net Deferrals and Net Financed Contracts. Refer to Apple Leisure Group Segment Statistics on schedule A-18 for additional details.

Mark S. Hoplamazian, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hyatt, said, "The fourth quarter marks the completion of a transformative year and demonstrates the progress towards our strategic vision and earnings evolution. RevPAR growth exceeded the high end of our guidance range and we had industry leading net rooms growth for the seventh consecutive year. This led to a record level of fees and the highest free cash flow in Hyatt's history. We returned $500 million to our shareholders and achieved an asset-light earnings mix of approximately 76% for the full year, a testament to the successful execution of our strategy."

Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita Retains the Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Rating for the Fifth Year in a Row

Situated along one of the island’s largest natural lagoons on the east coast, Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita features stunning scenery, fringed by azure blue waters and a natural coral reef. The stand-alone accommodation options - ranging from one-bedroom villas to multi-bedroom Private Retreats – along with a diverse range of dining and resort experiences make idyllic island vacations truly memorable.

Five Years, Five Stars

Recognising not just the Resort setting, but also the quintessential Four Seasons service, Forbes Travel Guide 2024 has once again awarded the Resort with Five Stars. The only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and ocean cruises, Forbes Travel Guide announced its Star Awards 2024, revealing that the Resort has been given Five Stars once again (the highest category). “The watermark that underlines any Four Seasons experience is our unrivalled attention to detail and an excellence in service and experiences,” says Martin Dell, General Manager. “We are incredibly proud and honoured to have retained the Forbes Travel Guide Five Star award: our focus is to make every experience personal and fulfilling – for our guests as well as our colleagues.”

Limitless Possibilities

Special access to two spectacular golf courses, one designed by Ernie Els and a signature course by Bernhard Langer on the adjacent Ile Aux Cerfs, make this a dream destination for golf enthusiasts. “With dramatic volcanic rock formations juxtaposed against the impossibly green tropical foliage, it can be hard to stay focused on the putting greens,” smiles Armelle Duval, Director of Rooms. Besides golf, the Resort offers a wide range of seaside activities, from kayaking and sailing to snorkelling out into the reef, and even fishing excursions into the deeper blue. The expansive property boasts seven dining options including the latest opening - the premium grill-house concept Upper Cut. “From exquisite pan-Asian flavours at Umi.Zaka to the rustic Italian fare at Acquapazza, our distinct concepts cater to all palates,” adds Duval.

Award Winning Relaxation

Recognized for its continued excellence, the Resort’s overwater Spa has been bestowed with Four Stars for its unique concept, combining local organic ingredients with sophisticated skincare products. “Impactful and innovative are our two mantras at the spa,” explains Joelle Jennepy, Senior Director of Spa. “We pride ourselves on curating experiences such that every individual gets a personalised holistic healing.”

Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa Opens Fully Renovated Spa at Sanibel Harbour

More than a year after Hurricane Ian wreaked destruction on Ft. Myers and Sanibel Island, Florida, the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa is proud to announce the opening of the newly transformed Spa at Sanibel Harbour, the largest and most comprehensive spa in Southwest Florida.

The 40,000 square feet, full-service spa, salon and fitness complex features 28 treatment rooms, and comprehensive spa treatments, co-ed spa experiences, a private bridal suite, full-day spa experiences, new, luxurious results-oriented skin care product lines, a variety of wellness/fitness classes, and recreation components including eight new pickleball courts and three tennis courts with open play and instructed lessons and clinics.

Largest and Most Comprehensive Spa in Southwest Florida Completes Transformation

Bryanna Weldy, spa director, says, “We have been working diligently to redesign and rebuild our spa, which is an integral part of the Ft. Myers and Sanibel island wellness communities. We are excited to share all of the new offerings with residents through our membership program, and to visitors and resort guests.”

The ambiance is modern luxe and the design theme is inspired by the coast, including teak, grey blue and green color palette. The spaciousness of the spa provides the perfect location for events and spa day getaways and encourages guests to incorporate wellness into their lives through treatments, skin enhancing products, lounges, recreation, and wellness classes.

The Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa has long been a destination wedding location, hosting up to 100 weddings a year. The Spa’s new bridal suite, which is attached to the spa, is perfect for pre or post wedding events, accommodating up to 10 guests.

The new Spa at Sanibel Harbour’s top to bottom renovation includes a grand entrance, mixed mosaic tile flooring, wall treatments, teak toned millwork throughout, spa boutique, salon with stations for hair, manicures and pedicures, heated treatment tables and equipment, men’s and women’s lounges and furnishings, and pools, whirlpools, steam rooms and saunas. A new Couple's Lounge was created for couples to begin their wellness journey prior to their services.

In addition to the spa, the wellness complex of the resort includes the following new or newly renovated amenities:

24-hour access to the 5,500 square-foot fitness center with extensive equipment selections, showering and changing facilities

2,000 square-foot fitness studio

Three Har-Tru clay tennis courts

Eight pickleball courts

Basketball court

Indoor co-ed pool

New Spa Bistro

Co-ed steam room

Spa boutique with new product lines including

Eminence Organics

Yonka Paris

Greyson

CauseMedic

Scentsational Soaps

Dazzle Dry

Knesko

L'Duex

Rad Roller

Local residents can enjoy six- or 12-month memberships which includes a 15 percent discount on spa services and spa retail; access to spa amenities without a treatment; space in members only exclusive clinics and recreation events; and membership pricing on wellness/fitness classes.

Resort Renovation:

Elegant Hotel Collection Launches

Elegant Hotel Collection has entered the luxury soft brand market, launching with 25 luxury hotels, and targeting 50 properties globally by summer 2024.

The independently-owned flag will expand on a curated, invitation-only basis, creating a luxury community where individual hotels receive tailored service.

Elegant identified a gap in the luxury market and is designed to reflect a renewed perspective on high-end travel. All Elegant properties have been selected to embody the five elements of the Elegant brand – Hospitality, Authenticity, Inclusivity, Innovation, and Sustainability – echoing the demands of today’s luxury travellers.

Elegant will take a dynamic approach to luxury distribution combining bespoke personalised service and global consumer and trade marketing. The group will operate on a commercial model biased toward results rather than high fixed fees to ensure a quantifiable return.

As part of an elite community of hoteliers, Elegant member hotels will have access to an array of benefits that equip them to thrive in the global competitive landscape utilising the latest technology to adapt to target demographic buying behaviour.

Catt McLeod, Vice President Brand Development, Elegant Hotel Collection said: “We are thrilled to be launching the Elegant Hotel Collection and raising the profile of these exceptional hotels.

“Elegant Hotel Collection offers a compelling alternative to traditional legacy brands, delivering a fresh, dynamic and comprehensive approach to luxury representation. The Elegant Hotel Collection is underpinned by a full suite of global partnerships and marketing solutions along with best-in-class technology.”

Founding members of Elegant Hotel Collection include some of the most highly awarded and regarded properties, featuring: Home House, London; Rosselli AX Privilege, Malta; the Exclusive Collection (Pennyhill Park, South Lodge, Lainston House, The Manor House, Royal Berkshire and Fanhams Hall), Sunborn Hotel Gibraltar; Paresa Resort Phuket, Thailand; La Sultana Oualidia, Morocco; Cresta Palace Hotel, St Moritz; and Stapleford Park

The Rome EDITION Redefines Luxury in the Eternal City

Rome is a city filled with masterpieces. From the paintings of Caravaggio and Raphael to the sculptures of Bernini and the films of Federico Fellini – it is the cradle from which all that is best about Italy has emerged. So, the Eternal City was the perfect fit for the opening of the latest EDITION.

Conceived, concepted, and programmed by the visionary entrepreneur, Ian Schrager, executed and interpreted by the hotel owners, Statuto Group, the intimate 91-room Rome EDITION sets a new standard in the Eternal City. Its sophistication, attention to detail, refinement, and high design aesthetic make it set to become a meeting place for Romans and travellers alike. Positioned in one of the most enviable areas of Rome, the hotel is only a few short steps from Via Veneto, the most sought-after street in all of Italy. It was immortalised in La Dolce Vita and embodies Italian flare in all its glory. Not only that – all the major attractions are within easy reach, including the Piazza Barberini, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain and the ever-beautiful Borghese Gardens.

Built-in the 1940s and formerly occupied by one of the main Italian banks, the building is a striking example of the rationalist style and was created by Cesare Pascoletti in collaboration with the famed architect Marcello Piacentini. The stunning central staircase of rare cipollino marble from the quarries of Apuane is a testament to their genius. Original features are retained throughout, including the central courtyards and original statues and lamps.

The hotel has three unique bars, a rooftop lounge, bar and pool, a show-kitchen restaurant, a well-appointed urban wellness space with gym and treatment rooms, and a courtyard garden where guests can while away the time sipping their favourite drink or sampling the peerless food menu from adored Roman Chef Paola Colucci, the hotel’s chef partner. The 91 rooms, including 17 suites, have all the design elements the brand is renowned for: the muted tones, the accents of walnut wood and stunning custom-designed furniture.

Global Holdings buys Mondrian Park Avenue....

Global Holdings, the international real estate development and investment firm has snapped up the Mondrian Park Avenue, a 190-key boutique hotel in Manhattan’s NoMad neighbourhood.

“Mondrian Park Avenue is an extraordinary asset, perfectly located in the heart of Manhattan at a time when tourists and local visitors are flooding back into the city,” said Jonathan Ofer, Chief Executive Officer of Global Holdings Management Group. “Moin Development did an incredible job converting this property into one of Park Avenue’s best hotels.”

Global Holdings previously held a senior mortgage loan on the property and completed the acquisition as part of a prior agreement with Moin Development.

Global Holdings’ portfolio includes more than 120 properties globally, totalling 10 million square feet across residential, hotel and commercial assets, including more than 1,500 hotel rooms. Global Holdings is an active player in the New York market, over the past month launching leasing for Anagram Columbus Circle, a first-of-its-kind luxury rental tower located next to the highly acclaimed 15 Central Park West, between Manhattan’s famed Billionaire’s Row and Central Park, and acquiring 51 Irving Place, a mixed-use apartment building located near Gramercy Park.

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Life in plastic is fantastic...... stay at Barbie's Malibu DreamHouse

If you fancy a stay with a difference, definitely something to share on Instagram or your favourite other social media network then why stay in a doll's house.  Yes, you too can be like Barbie or Ken or one of their plastic friends at a life-sized Barbie dreamhouse which is opening its doors for overnight stays prior to the "Barbie" movie being released.

Apparently,  the three-floor mansion in Malibu mansion is an exact replica of the movie set and is available to book for the night on Airbnb and Ken is hosting.   So, maybe while Barbie is away,  the boys come out to play!

Whilst, so termed "Kenergy" is on show here, Barbie’s signature pink remains ever-present throughout the life-size, toy-inspired home, as she’s done her own redecorating since the last time the Malibu DreamHouse was available for guests.

“We all have dreams, and Barbie is lucky enough to have a house full of them,” said Ken. “But now, it’s my turn, and I can’t wait to host guests inside this one-of-a-kind – dare I say, one-of-a-Ken? – digs.”

Ken is adding hosting to one of his passions in celebration of the release of the highly anticipated BARBIE film, directed by Greta Gerwig, written by Gerwig & Noah Baumbach, and starring Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, America Ferrara, Kate McKinnnon, Issa Rae, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell. 

Located in sunny Malibu, the oceanfront mansion features panoramic views and serves as the perfect backdrop for Ken’s picture-plastic paradise. Fans will be able to request to book Ken’s bedroom in the Malibu DreamHouse for two individual one-night stays** for up to two guests each on July 21 and July 22, 2023. All stays will be free of charge – because Ken couldn’t figure out how to put a price on Barbie’s Malibu DreamHouse – after all, Ken’s thing is beach, not math!

Everyone in Barbie Land can request to book Ken’s room in Barbie’s Malibu DreamHouse beginning July 17 at 10:00 AM PT at airbnb.com/kendreamhouse. Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Malibu.

In celebration of BARBIE hitting theatres on July 21, and to honour girls’ empowerment, Airbnb will make a one-time donation to Save the Children. Save the Children provides learning resources and support to children, families, and communities in 100+ countries to build girls’ confidence and help them excel in school – ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to achieve success.

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Hotel JAL City Bangkok, the 16th property to operate under the Hotel JAL City brand, opens 3rd July

Hotel JAL City Bangkok, the 16th property to operate under the Hotel JAL City brand, which is one of the most renowned hotel brands in Japan, is all set to open on 3rd July.

The official opening had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is the first of the brand to open outside of Japan and is located on Sukhumvit Road in Bangkok’s Thonglor tourist and business district. 

Hotel JAL City Bangkok is situated adjacent to Hotel Nikko Bangkok, which opened in January 2019. Thonglor BTS Skytrain station is just a three-minute walk away. Thonglor is an area extending north and south from Soi Sukhumvit 55, commonly known as Thonglor Road, in the Wattana district of central Bangkok. The area has long been home to many Japanese and other expatriates as well as wealthy Thais. The Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC) and Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), along with multinational restaurants, bars, community malls and international hospitals, are all nearby, making it a prime location for both business and leisure.

“We are delighted to be able to announce the opening of the first Hotel JAL City property outside Japan,” said Mr Tadashi Kitahara, General Manager of Hotel Nikko Bangkok and Hotel JAL City Bangkok. “We are expecting this to bring broader recognition of our hotel brand in Thailand and we aim to provide the renowned Japanese style omotenashi service, taking full advantage of the convenient and strategic location of the new hotel.”

MCR acquires three hotels in Florida.........The Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt properties are in the Sunshine State’s fastest-growing markets

MCR — the 3rd-largest hotel owner-operator in the U.S. has acquired three hotels in Florida. Totalling 384 rooms, the portfolio includes a Hampton Inn by Hilton, a Courtyard by Marriott and a Hyatt Place in Orlando and Daytona Beach — both among Florida’s fastest-growing markets. With this portfolio acquisition, MCR now has 13 hotels in Florida.

How magical! The 169-room Hyatt Place Orlando/Lake Buena Vista is located a few miles from Walt Disney World Resort and in walking distance of the world-class shopping, dining and entertainment offered in the Disney Springs district. It’s also a short drive from iconic destinations like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal Studios.

Race to the beach! Located just off State Road A1A and directly on the water, the 111-room Hampton Inn Daytona Shores features a sunny pool deck and direct access to the beach. It’s also conveniently located near numerous dining and golfing options. The Ocean Center convention arena and Daytona Beach Golf Club are both five miles away and the famous Daytona International Speedway is less than 20 minutes from the hotel!

Go, Hatters, go! The newly built, 104-room Courtyard Marriott DeLand Historic Downtown is the only hotel located downtown next to Stetson University, a private university with more than 4,000 students. The hotel is also within walking distance of top local attractions including SkyDive DeLand, Downtown DeLand and the Athens Theatre, as well as plenty of local shops and restaurants.

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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