Hyatt Hotels are celebrating the opening of IL Tornabuoni Hotel in Florence

Hyatt Hotels are celebrating the opening of IL Tornabuoni Hotel in Florence. The luxurious 62-bedroom Renaissance-inspired former palace signifies the debut of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand in Italy, known for its independent, one-of-a-kind hotels that offer bespoke experiences that inspire guests.

Whether it is a captivating past, an exclusive location, famous architecture and design or an award-wining dining experience, each property within The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand maintains a distinct character and the freedom to be unique, while still providing guests with the World of Hyatt loyalty program and a trusted brand name and reputation.

This historical property – formerly the Palazzo Minerbetti – has undergone significant restoration since its early days as an urban palace hosting well-known figures like the Grand Duke of Tuscany, better known as Cosimo de Medici lll. His patronage of science, architecture, literature and arts contributed to the cultural heritage of Florence and is reflected throughout the hotel via updates to guest rooms and suites, public spaces, the terrace and more.

Carefully curated in colours of red, blue and gold, each of the 62 guestrooms reflect the Renaissance era that Florence is known for, epitomizing the rich history and artistic magnificence of the period and allowing guests to create story-worthy experiences during their stay.

Located along Via de Tornabuoni, one of the most prestigious streets in Florence, guests can explore this cultural heritage, taking a short stroll to admire Palazzo Strozzi, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or the Uffizi Gallery. Guests can also step back in time with a climb up Giotto’s Campanile, a marbled Gothic tower that delivers spectacular views across the city or find the historic Ponte Vecchio, the famous Medieval bridge hosting authentic Italian jewellery shops, right at their doorstep.

Alila Hinu Bay Hotel opens in Oman

Alila Hinu Bay Resport

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has told us that the Alila Hinu Bay in Oman is now ready to welcome international guests for the first time, following the recent announcement of borders in Oman re-opening to tourists.

The property joins Alila Jabal Akhdar as the Alila brand’s second hotel in Oman along with 15 other Alila properties worldwide. Distinguished by a strong commitment to sustainable tourism, the award-winning brand features luxury hotels and resorts in some of the most spectacular natural locations.

The 112-key hotel is nestled on a secluded beachfront in Oman’s southwest region of Dhofar. The untouched area is best known for its lush landscapes, cool summers, and it is within easy driving distance from Salalah International Airport. Between Samhan mountain and the blue waters of the Arabian Sea, Alila Hinu Bay caters to well-travelled guests seeking reflection and impactful connections. Along with the breathtaking scenery, the area is known for its rich traditions and the renowned warmth of Omani hospitality. Combined with a personalized experience that is crafted for each guest, travellers can expect to be immersed in authentic yet bespoke journeys tailored to their preferences and interests.

“We are very excited to add Alila Hinu Bay to the Hyatt portfolio and welcome guests to this region of Oman, a true nature lover’s paradise full of stunning landscapes, waterfalls and greenery,” said Martin Persson, general manager, Alila Hinu Bay. “Dedicated to being responsible and sustainable, guests can enjoy exquisite culinary experiences evoking local and international flavours at one of our dining options or treat themselves to a customized spa experience that uses natural products.”

Accommodations with a View

Pool Villa 

Alila Hinu Bay boasts 112 guestrooms and private pool villas with interiors incorporating local materials which blend natural elements of the outdoors with clean, modern finishes. Guestrooms offer lagoon, or sea views, each with its own terrace with fixed seating and the option of booking connecting rooms for families. Pool villas offer the utmost in luxury with private plunge pools and outdoor bathtubs, enabling guests to feel in tune with the natural surroundings. Further, all of the pool villas boast direct access to the beach and plenty of space to relax and recharge.

Sustainable Dining Experiences

Each of Alila Hinu Bay’s dining venues is committed to sourcing the majority of its produce from local vendors. Seasalt offers views over the ocean and welcomes guests to indulge in a coastal dining experience. The Lobby Lounge serves light refreshments and welcome guests to indulge in authentic Arabian flavours. Guests are able to enjoy company and conversation over an Omani afternoon tea experience called “fuwala”, while relaxing with magnificent views overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Unique Experiences

Leisure Demand Continues to Drive Hyatt’s Brand Growth in Europe

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into six new management and franchise agreements for hotels in Europe across The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, JdV by Hyatt, Hyatt Centric, and Hyatt Regency brands, further emphasizing a growing desire from travellers, World of Hyatt members, and owners for hotels that offer unique, differentiated experiences and foster genuine connections with people and cultures.

The announcement builds on Hyatt’s growth strategy to significantly expand its brand portfolio in Europe by the end of 2023 – the six new executed agreements are expected to increase Hyatt’s brand presence in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland. This is in addition to the recently announced planned acquisition of Apple Leisure Group (ALG), which is expected to expand Hyatt’s European brand footprint by 60 percent.

“The newly executed agreements highlight the positive strides we are making towards our growth strategy in Europe, and the new projects sit alongside a strong pipeline of Hyatt-branded hotels scheduled to open over the coming years,” said Felicity Black-Roberts, Hyatt’s vice president development, Europe. “Confidence in the hospitality sector remains high among investors, and we are delighted to collaborate with leading owners and operators who recognize the value and profitability of Hyatt’s entire brand portfolio, with an emphasis on Hyatt’s independent collections, including The Unbound Collection by Hyatt and JdV by Hyatt brands, and lifestyle brands, including Hyatt Centric. With these new deals, we are asserting our expertise in leisure destinations, reinforcing that Hyatt’s brands continue to resonate and cater to leisure travellers.”

Newly executed deals include:

Hyatt Teams Up with Gopuff to Offer Everyday Essentials On-the-Go

The pilot program rolls out today with free deliveries at select Hyatt Place locations in the U.S., expanding the brand’s Necessities Program and bringing even more convenience to guests

Hyatt Hotel has announced a collaboration between the Hyatt Place brand and Gopuff, a go-to platform for consumers’ immediate everyday needs, such as drinks, snacks, over-the-counter medications, home and baby products and more, including alcohol in select markets.

Starting today at more than a dozen Hyatt Place hotels, this pilot program will create an added layer of convenience and comfort for travellers, providing guests at participating properties with fast, free delivery of thousands of everyday items. Guests at participating hotels can receive items in just 30 minutes delivered from Gopuff’s local micro-fulfilment centres. The collaboration will expand the Hyatt Place brand’s Necessities program, which offers guests a wide range of essentials to keep, borrow or buy, such as toothpaste, cellphone chargers or headphones.

In a recent survey, Hyatt learned that 60% of travellers have forgotten to pack an item (e.g., toiletries and first aid) for a business or leisure trip*. Leveraging data from the same survey, Hyatt and Gopuff identified the most-often-forgotten and most-likely-to-purchase items and collaborated to create in-app categories such as Travel Essentials, Spa Retreat, Movie Night, Office on the Go, and more, to ensure guests have easy, quick access to the items they need most while travelling.

“As both business and leisure travellers adjust their travel routines and seek new ways to travel safely, it’s important for us to keep the needs and wellbeing of our guests at the forefront of everything we do,” said Emily Wright, Global Brand Leader, Hyatt. “Every detail of the Hyatt Place experience is designed around innovation and intuitive design to make guest stays as seamless and comfortable as possible. Our collaboration with Gopuff is just another way the brand is helping guests get the most out of their stay, regardless of their reason for travel.”

Through this collaboration, Hyatt Place guests at participating hotels may enjoy the following benefits:

New Hyatt Regency hotel opens in Houston

Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Prism Hotels & Resorts have announced the opening of Hyatt Regency Houston West.  The opening marks a full-circle moment as the property originally opened as a Hyatt Regency hotel in the early 1980s. Ideal for guests seeking a seamless and intuitive experience, the premium hotel sits on Katy Freeway within Houston’s Energy Corridor and features 400 rooms, including 44 suites, 25,000 square feet of meeting and event space, and three food & beverage outlets – a three-meal restaurant, an eclectic lobby bar, and an expansive coffee market.

Owned by L+R Hotels and managed by Prism Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Regency Houston West is conveniently located in Houston’s Energy Corridor and provides guests authentic hospitality and a connected experience with friends, family, and colleagues whether travelling for meetings or leisure activities. 

“We are thrilled to open the doors to Hyatt Regency Houston West and welcome guests, customers, visitors, and World of Hyatt members to our Houston hotel,” said General Manager Tom Jamison. “Whether guests are visiting for a short trip or an extended stay, we know Hyatt Regency Houston West is the perfect place to offer a high-touch hotel experience that offers confident service to make guests feel connected and refreshed during their stay."

With biophilic design at every turn, Hyatt Regency Houston West sits atop lush greens surrounded by a picturesque two-acre lake. A refreshing water garden in the atrium lobby welcomes guests with slowly cascading waterfalls, exotic foliage, and tropical fish, serving as the harmonious core of the hotel.

“With the opening of Hyatt Regency Houston West, our hotel offers guests the opportunity to unwind in our expansive outdoor green space featuring lawn games and a year-round heated swimming pool and whirlpool. Whether travelling to Houston for business or leisure, the hotel provides an authentic hospitality experience in the heart of the city,” said Jamison. Situated in Energy Corridor and within minutes of CityCentre and Memorial City, the hotel’s desirable location offers guests plenty of dining, entertainment, and shopping options nearby. 

Concept & Design

Houston’s stature as the oil and gas capital of the world is boldly visible through the oil field mosaic prominently displayed at the hotel’s front desk and throughout Black Gold, the hotel’s lobby bar and lounge.

Food and Beverage

Nestled in the heart of our soaring tropical atrium lobby among exotic greenery and our roaming water feature, Café on the Lake offers breakfast, lunch and dinner and allows diners to indulge in locally inspired, creative and seasonal dishes that burst with Texas flavour. Paying homage to Houston's Energy Corridor, Black Gold Bar is located off the lobby and features updated, modern décor plus an exciting culinary and libations menu. Hyatt Regency Houston West also offers grab and go selections in Over The Counter, located on the hotel’s main level.

Meetings and Events  

Meeting professionals can conduct comfortable, productive business meetings and events at Hyatt Regency Houston West. The hotel features indoor lakes, a waterfall, glass elevators and an ideal location in the exclusive energy corridor convenient to both Houston airports. Ideal for meetings and weddings in Houston, there are a total of 25 meeting rooms with 25,000 square feet of function space, including the 9,800-square-foot Texas Ballroom.

Wellbeing & Sustainability

Guests wanting to stay on top of their wellness routine while away from home can count on Hyatt Regency Houston West’s fitness centre, healthy meal options, numerous outdoor activities, and personalized service. All guests enjoy complimentary access to the fitness centre, which features state-of-the-art exercise equipment. The hotel also offers an outdoor heated swimming pool and whirlpool. Guests looking to take their fitness regimen outdoors can enjoy the Hershey Park Jogging Trails located nearby, or play golf at nearby Bear Creek Park, Black Horse Golf Club and Meadowbrook Farms Golf Club, which features a course designed by Greg Norman.

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