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.

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

A “Nikko Style” Lifestyle-branded property to open in the world-famous mountain resort of Niseko

Okura Nikko Hotel Management Co. has announced that it will open the Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO hotel in 2024. The hotel will be located in Niseko, Hokkaido, a world-famous ski resort in Japan’s northernmost main island of Hokkaido. The company has contracted with Fujita Corporation to manage the new property.

The Nikko Style Niseko HANAZONO will offer 234 guest rooms, each with a standard area of about 34 square meters, including 16 suite rooms, on 8 floors above ground. All guest rooms on the top two floors will be equipped with bathrooms featuring a private natural hot spring bath. The hotel will also contain a restaurant with an open kitchen offering cuisine featuring rich local ingredients from Hokkaido. With views of the surrounding nature from every seat, an impressive circular bar counter and multiple private rooms, the restaurant will offer a variety of options for guests to enjoy their dining experience.

In addition, there will be a full range of facilities allowing guests to relax, including hot spring facilities with open-air baths overlooking Mt. Yotei, a club lounge, a fitness centre, and banqueting facilities.

Toshihiro Ogita, President, Okura Nikko Hotel Management Co., Ltd., commented, “We are delighted that the Okura Group will be opening its first ski resort hotel in Niseko, one of the world’s best-known resort areas. We are looking forward to offering our hospitality to guests from all over the world in a setting where they will feel close to the majestic natural surroundings.”

Delta Hotels by Marriott Brings ‘Simple Made Perfect’ Mantra to Mexico with Opening of Delta Hotels by Marriott, Riviera Nayarit, an All-Inclusive Resort

Leading Four-Star Brand Debuts First Property in Mexico with its First All-Inclusive Resort

Guest Room

Arrival to Delta Hotels Riviera Nayarit, an All-Inclusive ResorDelta Hotels by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of 30 hotel brands, today announces the opening of Delta Hotels by Marriott, Riviera Nayarit, an All-Inclusive Resort. Located on a hillside in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Riviera Nayarit, the resort focuses on the details that truly matter, featuring a clean aesthetic and a modern take on comfort, for a seamless travel experience. This is Delta Hotels’ first property in Mexico and the first Delta Hotels’ All-Inclusive Resort, signaling the continued global expansion of the brand since being acquired by Marriott International in 2015.

“This is an exciting moment for our brand as we welcome the first all-inclusive resort and our first property in Mexico,” said Jennifer Connell, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, Delta Hotels by Marriott. “Delta Hotels All-Inclusive Resorts empower a seamless travel experience that helps guests focus on what’s important, championing the key essentials for the highest impact. Through amazing food and beverage experiences, activated pools, and maximum fun, guests are free to do and play more and simply concentrate on enjoying time with the people they care about.”

Each Delta Hotels All-Inclusive Resort aims to elevate the essentials, with a focus on great food, activated pools, and dynamic spaces for families. Guests can expect modern multi-room suites, the brand’s signature Delta Pantry – exclusive for Elite members only, and ice cream socials, as well as fast-casual menus with an emphasis on simple, fresh ingredients – all designed to leave guests feeling relaxed and happy. Rooted in simplicity and focused on perfecting the small details that make all the difference during travel, the brand’s thoughtful design and efficient service allow guests to have a streamlined experience.

St. Regis Hotels and Resorts Makes Glamorous Debut in China’s Coastal City of Qingdao

The St. Regis Qingdao Introduces Iconic Butler Service, Celebrated Rituals and Exquisite Dining to the Region’s Modern Luminaries

Qingdao, China

St. Regis Hotels and Resorts, part of Marriott International's portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, today announced the debut of The St. Regis Qingdao. The highly anticipated opening marks the first Marriott International luxury brand hotel in the northeastern Shandong region. Strategically located in the landmark Haitian Center in the heart of historic Qingdao, the hotel is set to delight the city’s luminaries and tastemakers with its elegant design, refined craftsmanship and time-honoured signature rituals.

"We are very excited to expand our luxury footprint to one of the most beautiful coastal cities in the region with the debut of the iconic St. Regis brand, bringing bespoke experiences curated for the most discerning travellers," said Henry Lee, President, Greater China, Marriott International. "The opening of The St. Regis Qingdao ushers in a new benchmark of luxury hospitality in this dynamic city and underscores our commitment to continuously grow in Eastern China."

Occupying the 58th to 78th floors of the 369-meter-tall Haitian Center, The St. Regis Qingdao is the tallest hotel in the region, enthralling guests with panoramic vistas of the Yellow Sea and picturesque coastal scenes. Within an hour’s drive from Qingdao Liuting International Airport, the hotel is adjacent to scenic Fushan Bay, the venue for the sailing competitions during the Beijing Olympics, and with views of iconic local landmarks such as Badaguan Cultural Architecture Centre and Qingdao International Sailing Centre.

Drawing inspiration from the brand’s rich heritage, the renowned Singapore based interior design firm, LTW Designworks, subtly infused local Qingdao influences with St. Regis’ avant-garde aesthetic. This includes a crystal chandelier inspired by a legendary dress of golden thorns that Caroline Astor, mother of St. Regis founder John Jacob Astor IV and doyenne of New York high society in the Gilded Age, wore to one of her famed Midnight Suppers. A brilliantly-lit grand staircase offers the perfect venue for the celebrated St. Regis tradition of sabering a bottle of champagne to mark the transition from day to night. The backdrop of the grand staircase is a 74-meter-high atrium art wall that reflects the delicate traces left on the beach by the ebb and flow of the Yellow Sea.

Charlotte’s Newest Hotel is Set to Redefine Luxury Hospitality with Stunning Design, Exceptional Service and a Holistic Approach to Well-being

Charlotte’s Newest Hotel is Set to Redefine Luxury Hospitality with Stunning Design, Exceptional Service and a Holistic Approach to Well-being

JW Marriott, part of Marriott International, made its debut in North Carolina this week with the opening of JW Marriott Charlotte, located in the bustling Southern city’s dynamic Uptown neighbourhood. The 381-room luxury hotel, including 34 custom suites, offers discerning guests an urban retreat with inspired surroundings in which to relax and be present.

“With the opening of JW Marriott Charlotte, we will make sure every detail is taken care of, so our guests can focus on themselves during their stay,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “With thoughtful details throughout the property, holistic programming and an array of wellness offerings, guests will be encouraged to experience every moment to the fullest.”

Stunning Design

Inspired by Queen Charlotte, the city’s namesake, JW Marriott Charlotte draws inspiration from the sumptuous textiles of both her royal clothing and palaces, and marries them with the modern sensibility of the city. Ornate details, such as the flowing custom lobby chandelier that draws inspiration from the sumptuous patterns of the queen’s royal clothing, are set against grand-scale architecture, which gives the overall aesthetic of the hotel a clean and modern form.

One of the most defining features of JW Marriott Charlotte is its use of natural light to promote a minimal and relaxing environment while also showcasing regal craftsmanship, finishes and details throughout.

All guest rooms and most of the hotel’s 22,000 square feet of meeting space feature floor-to-ceiling windows, with city, stadium and vista views of greater Charlotte.

The 23-story building is a focal point of a new pedestrian-friendly public plaza and guests will have immediate access to diverse arts and culture, exciting sports and entertainment, convenient transportation, Bank of America Stadium and the renovated Charlotte Convention Center.

Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort opens

Hotel giant Hilton has celebrated the opening of Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort as the latest addition to Hilton’s expanding All-Inclusive portfolio. Situated between the beaches of Bay of Banderas and the majestic Sierra Madre Mountain in Mexico’s Pacific Coast, the 444-room hotel features 14 restaurants and bars, two infinity pools and 16,200 square feet of versatile indoor meeting and event space. Managed by Hilton, the hotel was developed by Parks Hospitality and is owned by Fibra UNO. 

“With this newest addition to our rapidly growing portfolio in Mexico, we reinforce our commitment to continued expansion in both the all-inclusive segment and in one of the most desired leisure destinations in Latin America”, said Danny Hughes, executive vice president and president, Americas, Hilton. “We are excited to welcome guests to Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort, where there is something for everyone — first-class facilities and amenities, a gorgeous setting amid the beach and lush rainforest, magnificent sunsets, and exquisite cuisine.” 

Rooms

Offering 444 spacious and modern suites each with sleek bathrooms featuring walk-in rainfall showers, hotel guest rooms are a soothing and comfortable haven to relax after a day exploring the former fishing town or relaxing at the beach. Each room is complemented by private balconies and terraces overlooking the Pacific coastline, a perfect spot for guests to start or wind down the day admiring the sunrise or sunset. For a more relaxing experience, some suites offer a whirlpool tub. 

Guests will enjoy peace of mind with an industry-leading standard of cleanliness and disinfection from check-in to check-out with Hilton CleanStay. Hilton CleanStay builds upon the already high standards of housekeeping and hygiene at Hilton’s more than 6,600 properties worldwide, where hospital-grade cleaning products and upgraded protocols are currently in use. As part of the program, guests can expect procedures including additional cleaning and disinfection on areas “knock and go” dropped-off room service and flexible housekeeping options.

Wyndham Rewards returned to Sedgefield Country Club this week as proud title sponsor of the 82nd annual Wyndham Championship.

Wyndham Rewards, 

the world’s most generous rewards program spanning more than 50,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals, returns to Sedgefield Country Club this week as proud title sponsor of the 82nd annual Wyndham Championship.

Regarded as one of the most fan-friendly stops on the PGA TOUR, this year’s tournament welcomes fans back to the Piedmont Triad for the first time since 2019. In celebration, Wyndham Rewards is making this year’s Championship even more rewarding, putting up to 100 million Wyndham Rewards points up for grabs and offering in-person attendees the chance to walk away with up to 15,000 Wyndham Rewards points each, enough for a weekend getaway at thousands of hotels coast to coast.

“Last year was a reminder for all of us of the important role that both travel and live events play in our everyday lives,” said Eliot Hamlisch, EVP of Loyalty and Wyndham Rewards program leader. “With that in mind, we couldn’t be more excited to be back with fans at Sedgefield. With fantastic food, incredible giveaways, live entertainment and of course, great championship golf, this year’s tournament is all about welcoming fans back and letting each attendee know—you’ve earned this.”

MCR opens Hilton Garden Inn in Minneapolis

MCR is the proud owner of the 141-room Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis University Area at the University of Minnesota’s main campus that’s home to more than 50,000 undergraduate and graduate students.

Last fall, MCR acquired the DoubleTree from a lender who foreclosed on their borrower. MCR’s purchase price was more than a 40% discount to what the hotel previously sold for in 2018. In June 2021, MCR rebranded the hotel from a DoubleTree to a Hilton Garden Inn.

The Hilton Garden Inn is MCR’s second hotel in Minneapolis. MCR also purchased the 60-room Chambers Hotel downtown at a price that was nearly 50% below the prior owner’s cost basis.

Located on the University of Minnesota’s East Bank main campus, the Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis University Area is across from the M Health Clinics hospital and its recently opened $160 million surgery centre. The Stadium Village light rail station — with links to Minneapolis−Saint Paul Airport — is just two blocks away.