Charles Loop appointed CFO at DHISCO

Charles Loop, an industry distribution veteran has today been appointed CFO at DHISCO, the largest single processor of electronic hotel transactions.

Charles brings more than 20 years of experience at Sabre Corp., a major travel distribution company, including the position of chief financial officer of Sabre Travel Network. His appointment completes DHISCO’s senior leadership team and underscores its investors’ commitment to the company.

“Charles Loop’s vast experience and knowledge of the travel distribution business will help DHISCO and its new leadership team deliver intelligent booking systems that drive our partners’ success,” said Toni Portmann, DHISCO chief executive officer, adding that Loop will be able to “hit the ground running with a focus on profitability, costs, margins and ROI.”

In addition to providing financial oversight, he will play a key role in the company’s strategic product positioning and pricing.

Loop joined Sabre in 1994 as a senior analyst, moving up to vice president of Sabre Travel Network sales and operations. In 2004, he joined Sabre’s Travelocity subsidiary as financial operations controller and led the post-acquisition financial integration of Travelocity Europe and lastminute.com. He was CFO of Travelocity in Europe from 2005 until 2006 and appointed CFO of Sabre Travel Network in 2013.

For more information on DHISCO visit http://www.dhisco.com/

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Arantxa Balson is appointed Chief Human Resources Officer

Arantxa Balson will join Accor as Chief Human Resources Officer. She will be a member of the Group’s Executive Committee and her appointment will be effective as of May 4th 2015.

Evelyne Chabrot, Accor’s current Chief Human Resources Officer, has decided in full agreement with the Group’s senior executives, that after over forty years with Accor, she will now devote her time to personal projects in active retirement. Evelyne Chabrot will accompany this transition to ensure a smooth handover.

Referring to this appointment, Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO of Accor declared: “We have been working with Evelyne and the Executive Committee for several months to prepare this change in our organization. Evelyne has played an essential role in accompanying the Group’s transformation, but I would also especially like to pay tribute to her commitment, integrity, thoughtfulness and unfailing attachment to Accor. I know that this transition will be a very emotional one for her. It will also be charged with emotion for the 170,000 Accor employees who I will represent in honoring her. I am very happy that Arantxa has agreed to join Accor, to take up the torch and continue the work undertaken by the Human Resources teams. Her international experience, knowledge of the challenges facing an increasingly digital world, and enthusiasm, will be essential qualities in ensuring that the transformation of our Group is a complete success”.

Arantxa Balson is Spanish and 50 years old. She has a degree in Educational Psychology from the Universidad de Comillas and an MBA from ICADE’s School of Management and Economic Sciences in Madrid. She also has a postgraduate diploma in Human Resources Management and Social Relations from Université Paris IX Dauphine.

Arantxa Balson started her career in 1994 at France Télécom where she was in charge of international training. In 1998, she joined Lucent Technologies (now Alcatel-Lucent) where she held various positions as Human Resources Director in Western Europe, then in Spain and Portugal. Then she joined Lucent Worldwide Services EMEA as HR Director, a position she combined with another role as HR support for the transformation of the Supply Chain and Corporate Centers in the region. In 2004, she joined Endesa, the leading electricity utility in Spain and Latin America, as Director of Development and HR Innovation.

Ever since 2010, she has been Director of Human Resources at Adeo, Europe’s leading DIY and home improvement retailer. In this capacity, she notably accompanied the digital transformation and equipped the group’s companies with learning and open innovation platforms.

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Matt Taylor appointed as General Manager Marketing for Choice Hotels Australasia

Choice Hotels Australasia has appointed Matt Taylor as General Manager Marketing following his significant contribution to the company during a period of growth.

Trent Fraser, Choice’s CEO, said Taylor has been integral in leading the strategic marketing direction for Choice Hotels across Australasia, and as a result of his management and marketing initiatives, the company has experienced significant increases in brand awareness, consumer engagement and bottom line growth.

“Matt has done a terrific job in leading the business, achieving strong results and implementing innovative initiatives for our franchisee network over the last few years but especially over the past 12 months,” said Fraser.

Having built a career in retail and tourism, Taylor’s experience has provided a solid foundation for Choice Hotels since he joined in 2012.

In his time at Choice, Taylor has led the implementation of many digital, online and social strategies for the brand.  In 2015, the Choice Hotels’ Marketing team launched the local area marketing kit (LAMkit), a cloud-based platform which allows franchisees to create their own marketing collateral and stationery remotely. The portal then links directly to printers and digital advertising systems to make the process easy for franchisees.

Sponsorship has been a significant focus for Taylor, including establishing partnerships with the PGA of Australia, New Zealand Golf, Australian Cricketers Association, New Zealand Cricket Players Association and charity partners Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand and Kids Under Cover.

Before commencing his role with Choice Hotels, Taylor began his career with PETstock, where over a seven year period he built his way up to General Manager Marketing, before holding positions with Crazy Johns as the National Marketing and Communications Manager and Global Retail Brands as the National Marketing Manager.

Choice Hotels Australasia has more than 270 hotels across Australia, New Zealand and Singapore. For more information go to www.choicehotels.com.au

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Hilton Durban today announced the appointment of Chris Van Aswegen as Chief Engineer and according to Markus Fritz, General Manager for the Hilton Durban, Chris will be working on the ongoing refurbishment of the hotel.

Fritz added: “This appointment follows the exciting ongoing refurbishment project that Hilton Durban commenced in January 2014, with phase one being the Lobby and Port Cochere rejuvenation.”

“In 2015 and 2016, we will be seeing a new concept restaurant open in the later part of 2015 and then moving onto the full refurbishment of our 324 guest rooms, including our suites and Presidential Suite.”

Van Aswegen brings both local and international experience to his new role at Hilton Durban. In his former role as the Maintenance Manager at Hilton Windhoek, he was responsible for supervising, controlling and overseeing all room, contracts and projects. Prior to Hilton Windhoek, Van Aswegen has been with the Hilton family since 2011, starting at the Hilton Durban as Assistant Chief Engineer.

For more information go to www.hilton.com.

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Vail Resorts to Acquire Perisher, the Largest Mountain Resort in Australia

Vail Resorts, Inc. today announced that the Company has agreed to acquire its first international mountain resort, Perisher Ski Resort (“Perisher”) in New South Wales, Australia, for total cash consideration of AU$176.6 million (approximately US$136 million), subject to certain adjustments.

Perisher is the largest and most visited ski resort in Australia and is well-positioned with access to the country’s largest cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra and Brisbane. Perisher is also the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere. The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 following the satisfaction of certain conditions, including approval by the New South Wales Government under the long-term lease and licence noted below.

The Company is purchasing 100 percent of the stock in the entities that operate Perisher from Murray Publishers Pty Ltd and Transfield Corporate Pty Ltd in Sydney. Perisher holds a long-term lease and licence with the New South Wales Government under the National Parks and Wildlife Act, which expires in 2048 with a 20-year renewal option. The acquisition includes the resort areas known as Perisher Valley, Smiggin Holes, Blue Cow and Guthega, along with ski school, lodging, food and beverage, retail/rental and transportation operations, which together comprise Perisher.

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Bill Herman named National Account Manager for Hotel Internet Services

Hotel Internet Services (HIS) has appointed 17-year hospitality industry veteran, Bill Herman, to the role of National Account Manager.

According to Gary Patrick, President of Hotel Internet Services, Herman’s appointment represents a major part of HIS’s expansion plans as he is well experienced in the industry and understands the role technology plays is vital to success.

“Technology in the guest-room is extremely dynamic and needs to keep pace with the guests’ in-home experience (both TV viewing content and Wi-Fi),” Herman said.

Herman added: “My Company goal is to help make HIS the leader in the Hospitality Industry for both Wi-Fi and IPTV. Our company is positioned to grow very rapidly and I am excited to be part of that expansion.”

“We are very happy to add Bill Herman to our team. He brings many years of outstanding experience to HIS at a very exciting time as the company is just releasing a new entry into the world of in-room entertainment,” said Gary Patrick.

Herman comes to HIS from Lodgenet Interactive where he served as Regional Sales Manager.

HIS is a full solution provider for secure wired and wireless Internet services, IPTV VOD Systems, BeyondTV Wireless Streaming Player, convention services, all supported with 24×7 guest service monitoring and support. HIS provides equipment and services to Casinos, Hotels, Resorts, Military and Student housing, Timeshares, Condos, Conference Centers, Apartments and many other commercial venues.

Michael Fletcher Appointed Director of Sales & Marketing Hilton Atlanta

Michael Fletcher has been appointed Director of Sales and Marketing at Hilton Atlanta, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Atlanta’s convention district and home of the legendary Nicholas Roof with outstanding revolving views of downtown Atlanta. Fletcher will be responsible for the coordination of Hilton Atlanta’s sales and marketing functions, developing and implementing sales and marketing strategies for the 1242-room property.  

Strategic and enthusiastic, Fletcher’s background includes more than 17 years of leadership experience overseeing the sales and marketing efforts of full service hotels with up to 1,560 rooms and 160,000 square feet of meeting space.  Prior to his most recent position as director of sales and marketing with Westin Hotels & Resorts, he spent 13 years with Marriott International as director of sales Atlanta Marriott Marquis.

Fletcher attended the business administration and management program at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise.

An icon for more than three decades, and the third largest hotel in downtown Atlanta, Hilton Atlanta has completed a major transformation and renovation offering guests and meeting planners a fresh new product in one of America’s most affordable cities.

The 30-story tower, located at 225 Courtland Street – in the heart of downtown Atlanta has transformed all 1,242 guestrooms and suites, as well as the lobby and atrium areas, 119,000 square feet of meeting space, food and beverage outlets and fitness facilities.

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Mercure Gold Coast Resort appoints new chef, Darren Clements

Mercure Gold Coast Resort has appointed Darren Clements to the role of Executive Chef, overseeing the Palm Meadows property’s recently re-launched restaurant and bar, in-room dining, and conference and events catering services.

The resort’s General Manage, Jamie O’Donnell, said: “We are delighted to welcome Darren to the team and he heralds a new era of great dining for this resort.”

“He brings 20 years of cooking experience to this role, perfected both here in Australia and overseas, and his sophisticated yet accessible cuisine style will certainly complement the refined new surrounds of Mercure’s restaurant and dining space which was completely renovated at the end of last year,” he added.

Local Brisbane boy

A local Brisbane boy, Darren commenced his career in the kitchens of some of Australia’s best Australia’s most popular restaurants and hotels, including the Sheraton Brisbane, Melbourne’s Oberoi Windsor Hotel, and the Sofitel Melbourne On Collins .

Most notably, Darren has worked extensively in Arabia, involved in the pre-opening of the 867-room Madinat Jumeirah Arabian Resort in Dubai with its 45 restaurant and bars. He was also Executive Chef for the pre-opening of the W Doha Hotel in Qatar, which boasts 445 rooms and restaurants by Michelin star chef Jean Georges Vongrichten.

Describing his food style as eclectic, Darren uses his classic French training and love of Asian and Arabic flavours from his many culinary journeys around the globe to inspire his restaurant menus.

At the Mercure Gold Coast Resort, he says he is looking forward to creating an a la carte menu featuring local produce from the Gold Coast, Tweed Coast and South East Queensland, incorporating indigenous recipes into the resort’s regular restaurant and bar menus.

For more information on the Mercure Gold Coast Resort go to www.mercuregoldcoastresort.com.au.

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Royal Caribbean expands deployment and investment in China vacation market

Furthering the cruise line’s commitment to growing the China vacation market, Royal Caribbean International announced that Tianjin, China, will be the new home for its third Quantum-class ship, Ovation of the Seas. The news was given by Royal Caribbean’s President and CEO, Michael Bayley, in a Beijing press conference of media, travel agents and officials. Launching in April 2016, Ovation of the Seas will be the cruise line’s fifth cruise ship based in the region.

“Cruising has become very popular for Chinese consumers and Royal Caribbean is already capturing their imaginations with our industry-leading cruise ships,” said Bayley. “We are furthering our commitment by bringing two of the world’s newest and most advanced Quantum-class cruise ships to the region. In addition, we are significantly expanding our investment in the training and employment of Chinese talent so they can join us in delivering our amazing and distinctive vacations to Chinese travelers.”

Currently under construction, Ovation of the Seas will join Quantum of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas and Legend of the Seas in the China seas. The five ships will comprise the largest fleet deployment for any cruise brand in China, homeporting in four metropolitan Chinese cities – Shanghai, Tianjin, Hong Kong and Xiamen – and primarily sailing three- to 12-night itineraries to destinations in Japan, Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam. Royal Caribbean’s summer 2016 Asia adventures will open for booking in August

In addition to committing ships to the region, Royal Caribbean is investing in people shoreside. The cruise line created a curriculum with the Tianjin Maritime College in August 2014 in order to attract, train and employ more Chinese talent. In the 13,000 sq. ft. school, students are instructed in the skills needed for a successful culinary or restaurant service career with Royal Caribbean. The cruise line has already hired more than 3,000 graduates and hopes to expand the program to accept more students and work with colleges in other Chinese

Royal Caribbean also is exploring new ways to engage the Chinese economy and help create more Chinese jobs. The cruise line is investigating potential Chinese drydock facilities to revitalize Legend of the Seas as early as 2018; logistics centers in China to supply its ships deployed in the region; and an inbound-tourism business model to bring thousands of North American vacationers to experience

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Carnival Corporation to add nine cruise ships to its fleet over a four-year period

Carnival Corporation signed two strategic memorandums of agreement that will add a total of nine new cruise ships to the company’s fleet over a four-year period from 2019 – 2022. The shipbuilding agreements, which include options for additional ship builds in the coming years, are subject to several conditions, including satisfactory financing.

Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri S.p.A and German shipbuilder Meyer Werft will each build new ships based on Carnival Corporation’s next-generation ship designs, which will produce the most efficient ships in the company’s history. The new ships are expected to serve established cruise markets in North America and Europe, as well as newer markets, including China. Each new ship will be specifically designed and developed for the brand and guests it will serve, and support the company’s overall goal of exceeding guest expectations and further elevating every aspect of the guest experience.

“We’re excited to take this next step in our fleet enhancement plan with these two new agreements that are consistent with our long-term strategy of measured capacity growth over time,” said Arnold Donald, president and CEO of Carnival Corporation. “Our goal as a company is to exceed the expectations of every guest on every ship every day, and these new ships will further enable us to do just that. These will be the most efficient ships we have ever built and the great guest experience will create even more excitement around cruising – helping new cruisers realize the superior vacation experience and value that cruising offers versus land-based vacations.”

Fincantieri, the world’s largest cruise ship building company, will develop and construct five ships at its shipyards in Monfalcone and Marghera, Italy.

“I am extremely proud on this truly memorable day for us. Today’s announcement provides us with a long-term strategic prospective, and reinforces the extraordinary partnership between us and Carnival Corporation, developed over time thanks to the confidence the group has always shown in us, which we assure will be once again well placed,” said Giuseppe Bono, CEO of Fincantieri. “This agreement reflects the exceptional business vision of the world’s most important cruise operator, and our readiness and flexibility in interpreting its demands.”

Bono added, “This agreement is the best reward for our hard work over all these years, and in fact, our organizational, design and production skills have allowed us to consolidate our market leadership, confirming us at the top of such an exclusive and complex industry.”

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Four Seasons Hotel Doha Introduces New Kids For All Seasons Activities

For families looking for a relaxing break by the shimmering shores of the Arabian Gulf this spring Four Seasons Hotel Doha offers a fun-filled retreat for the entire family – and most importantly a place where kids can be kids!.

The Hotel’s popular kids programing offering – Kids for All Seasons – is introducing a brand new selection of complimentary themed activities that offers its youngest guests a chance to make holiday memories that last a lifetime.

The Four Seasons’ Kids for All Seasons (KFAS) program captures a distinct sense of place within the destination and incorporates education and fun within three unique activity programs – Kids Club, Too Cool for School and the Young Adult Social (YAS).

Starting with the Kids Club program for 5-12 year olds, young children are encouraged to immerse themselves in educational and interactive learning through Arts and Crafts, Treasure Hunts and various sports all within the immaculate grounds of the Hotel.

For kids who are a little more independent and adventurous, the Hotel has designed the “Too Cool for School” program.  Like its namesake, kids are invited to express their independence and meet other like-minded 7-12 year olds and have fun socially whilst being challenged with an array of activities tailored for their specific age group.

Young adults (teenagers) staying at the Hotel have their own group program designed to encourage socializing and mingling with other guests of their age. The Young Adult Social (YAS) program takes participants through the Hotel with various sporting activities and team competitions, building trust and friendship along the way. The program includes activities such as volleyball, mini golf and swimming contests, mocktail socials and movie nights to feed the team – or teen – spirit.

JW MARRIOTT AND RITZ-CARLTON SOON-TO-OPEN IN GALAXY MACAU

With both the JW Marriott Hotel Macau and The Ritz-Carlton, Macau set to open on May 27, 2015, Marriott International, Inc. has announced the official launch of bookings on www.jwmarriottmacau.com and www.ritzcarlton.com/macau. Set within one of the world’s most spectacular entertainment and leisure destinations – Galaxy Macau™ – guests have the option of embarking on an urban escape at Asia’s largest JW Marriott – JW Marriott Hotel Macau, or reveling in the finest personal service and best of Asian luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, the brand’s first All-Suite hotel.

“The opening of these two new hotels at the Galaxy Macau™ integrated resort will redefine the standard of luxury in Macau,” said Rauf Malik, Vice President of Operations at JW Marriott Hotel Macau and The Ritz-Carlton, Macau. “Through this carefully crafted range of opening offers, we will give our first guests a holistic taste of the truly exceptional experiences that these hotels will provide. Our guests can choose to indulge in the simple elegance of the JW Marriott Hotel Macau or immerse themselves in the legendary experience that defines The Ritz-Carlton, Macau.”

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NOTHER U HOTEL COMING TO CHIANG MAI

Absolute Hotel Services Group CEO Jonathan Wigley has announced the second member of U Hotels & Resorts in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The hotel will consist of 140 rooms and suites and set to open in late 2016.

U Nimman Chiang Mai is located on Nimmanhemin Road and just minutes away from the shopping and entertainment area, the most hip and trendy area to visit when in Chiang Mai. The hotel will have a total of 140 rooms and suites, which will be well equipped with deluxe amenities. The overall design of the hotel will be industrial modern with a twist of Lanna influences throughout its interiors. Facilities include an all day dining restaurant with terrace bar, a library, a spa with five treatment rooms, a swimming pool, a gym and large garden area. For meeting and events the hotel will also provide a 720 sqm banquet space plus additional 300 sqm function lawn.

Guests can enjoy and experience the U’s unique concept of service including the 24 hour room which will allow guests to enjoy their room for 24 hours from check in as well as breakfast whenever/wherever during the stay, international and local calls at cost, pre-select amenities such as pillow, tea and soap that guests can select from our online U Choose programme and more.

Jonathan Wigley said “We are very excited to add another U hotel in Chiang Mai in such location as Nimman which is quickly become the social hub of Chiang Mai.”

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DUSIT THANI LAUNCHES IN KRABI

Dusit International and MBK Hotel and Resort have announced the launch of the Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort.



Central garden at Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort

At a signing ceremony jointly presided over by Khun Chanin Donavanik, Dusit International’s Managing Director and CEO, and Khun Suvait Theeravachirakul, MBK Group’s Director and CEO, it was announced Dusit will rebrand the property from 1 July 2015.

The Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort, located on a secluded stretch of the beautiful Klong Muang Beach, will boast a fresh, modern-Thai design that capitalises on the surrounding lush, tropical landscape. The resort will offer 240 spacious and inviting guest rooms, 3 restaurants, 1 bar, 2 beachfront swimming pools, meeting facilities, a Spa, a gym, a club lounge and a kid’s club, making it an excellent choice for leisure travelers and bespoke events.

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INTERSTATE EUROPE ANNOUNCES FOUR APPOINTMENTS TO UK MANAGEMENT TEAM

The UK division of Interstate Europe, part of global hotel management company Interstate Hotels & Resorts, has announced a quartet of senior appointments to its UK management team.

Barry Dawson joins the company as Vice President Hotels Finance; Quentin Neville as Vice President Procurement; Clare Snowdon as IT Director and Caroline Michel as Marketing Director.

Dawson joins Interstate from Macdonald Hotels and Resorts, where he has worked throughout his career in a variety of roles stretching back to the late 1990s where he started as a Hotel Financial Controller, before being promoted through the ranks to Hotels Finance Director, the position he has held for the last five years.

Neville is an experienced independent purchasing consultant/interim who has worked across a range of sectors with a proven track record for delivering profitability via cost control, revenue streams, quality and service, from an effective mix of strategic and tactical activity.

Snowdon is a business led, professional IT Consultant with over 25 years’ experience, the last decade of which has seen her lead her own consultancy. Operating within the hospitality industry internationally in both a business and technical capacity, Snowdon has extensive experience of delivering a range of services to hotel sector clients.

Michel joins Interstate from Halfords, where she was Head of Advertising and Digital Media with accountability for advertising, PR and email marketing. Her previous roles have included strategic planning, advertising and campaign management for National Express and FMCG brand management.

Robert Crook, Interstate’s Managing Director for the UK , said: “I’m delighted to welcome Barry, Clare and Caroline to the Interstate management team. This trio of appointments demonstrate that Interstate is enhancing its the central team in advance of exciting times ahead for the company in the UK as we seek to add to our evolving portfolio.

“Barry is an acknowledged visionary with a proven track record in financial management; Quentin is a dynamic and professional Procurement and Supply Chain leader with extensive experience across many sectors; Clare has extensive experience in designing, developing and delivering corporate IT strategies across all disciplines within time and budget and Caroline is a commercial marketer with strong experience in strategic marketing management who is deploying the skills she has developed in the retail and FMCG sectors to bring a fresh perspective to the hospitality sector.”

“All four strengthen our team, and their individual talents bring expertise in their specialist fields that will directly benefit Interstate clients.”

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DAVID BERNAND APPOINTED GM AT FOUR SEASONS WASHINGTON, DC

David Bernand has been appointed General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC, the city’s only Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond hotel. Bernand, who served previously at the Georgetown hotel for six years and received three promotions starting as Assistant Director of Food and Beverage to Hotel Manager, is called once again to manage the 222-room Hotel, Seasons Restaurant, BOURBON STEAK, M29 LIFESTYLE, and a diverse staff of more than 450 employees. He is the eighth General Manager at the helm of the first Four Seasons hotel to open in the United States 35 years ago.

“Returning to DC is like coming home. All of the best memories I have with the company are here in Washington. From attending to high-profile clientele to working with loyal staff, each aspect of the operation made a difference in my decision to return to this iconic hotel,” says Bernand.

Leading his seventh renovation with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Bernand is eager to continue evolving the Hotel into a destination on par with the luxury hotels coming to the area and maintaining its position among the world’s best hotels as recognized by Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List 2014, Travel + Leisure World’s Best Hotels 2015 and U.S. News and World Report Best Hotels 2015.  He will oversee the Hotel’s USD 13 million guest room renovation set to begin this summer. “Luxury means convenience, reliability and proactive service. I am committed to creating an exquisite product while focusing on the small details and customer experiences that make our guests feel at home,” says Bernand.

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TWO NEW DIRECTORS OF SALES AND MARKETING FOR MONTAGE HOTELS

Montage Hotels has appointed two new Directors of Sales & Marketing with Craig Schoninger at The Inn at Palmetto Bluff in South Carolina, and James Palank at Montage Kapulua Bay in Hawaii.

James Bermingham, Executive Vice President of Operations, Montage Hotels & Resorts, said: “Both Craig and James have impressive backgrounds and a proven track record of success in the hospitality industry. We are excited to have their leadership at their respective resorts as they will assist in the growth of Montage Hotels & Resorts.”

Craig Schoninger joins The Inn at Palmetto Bluff from The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. During his time with The Ritz-Carlton, Schoninger oversaw properties in South Beach, Palm Beach and Amelia Island.

Schoninger also held the Director of Sales position at Amelia Island Plantation and was pre-opening Sales Manager for The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, where he managed the northeast market. He studied hotel, restaurant and travel administration at Georgia State University.

James Palank joins Montage Kapalua Bay from Starwood Hotels & Resorts, where he was most recently the Director of Sales & Marketing for both The Westin Maui Resort and Spa, plus The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas within The Ka’anapali Resort.

Previously, Palank was Director of Sales & Marketing with The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, where he received the ‘Starwood Sales Leader of the Year’ award within the North American Division in 2013. Earlier in his career, he spent four years with the Trump Hotel Collection as Regional Director of Leisure Sales and served as Vice President of Sales & Marketing with The Trump International Hotel and Tower in Las Vegas.

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KARISMA AND VIACOM TO DEVELOP NICKELODEON HOTELS

Karisma Hotels & Resorts and Viacom International Media Networks have announced the signing of an agreement to develop Nickelodeon Hotels1. A Gourmet Inclusive collection of luxurious family-friendly properties, Nickelodeon Hotels will represent the first and only international hotels for Nickelodeon, one of the most globally recognized and widely distributed multimedia brands for kids.

The deal includes plans to debut Nickelodeon Hotels with the opening of Nickelodeon Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic in late 2016. A second Nickelodeon Hotel will open in Mexico shortly thereafter. Karisma Hotels & Resorts is a luxury hotel collection which owns and manages properties in Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe.

“We are ecstatic to partner with Viacom International Media Networks on the creation of Nickelodeon Hotels, a collection that will embody our shared commitment to deliver family-friendly experiences that are as fun as they are unforgettable,” said Mandy Chomat, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Karisma Hotels & Resorts. “Karisma Hotels & Resorts’ focus on elevated carefree vacations and exceptional service combined with the adventurous spirit and playfulness that define Nickelodeon are sure to make Nickelodeon Hotels destinations unlike any other for guests of all ages.”

ASHLEY SMIT APPOINTED FRONT OFFICE MANAGER AT HILTON DURBAN

Hilton Durban has announced the appointment of Ashley Smit as Front Office Manager.

Markus Fritz, general manager, Hilton Durban, said, “We are very pleased to announce Ashley’s appointment as the new Front Office Manager for Hilton Durban and I look forward to the contributions he will undoubtedly make at Hilton Durban.”

Smit brings 10 years of experience to his new role at Hilton Durban. In his former role as the Assistant Front Office Manager at The Michelangelo Hotel in Sandton, he was responsible for overseeing the front office operations such as the service, quality and overall experience of guests.

“I’ve always had a big heart for hospitality. The rewarding part for me is finding opportunities to connect with our guests. I hope to add value so we can create many more memorable experiences every day,” said Smit.

Prior to Michelangelo Hotel, Smit had a year as front office supervisor at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans in U.S., giving him great international experience. Prior to his year in the U.S., he was with Champagne Sports Resort and the Makaranga Garden Lodge in KwaZulu Natal.

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DAVID DE BRITO APPOINTED RESORT MANAGER FOR KEEMALA

David de Brito is the newest addition to the executive level management of the resort set within the lush woodlands of Kamala, Phuket.

Due to open its doors to guests in the latter part of 2015, Keemala is busy appointing the most talented management to ensure its brand message of ‘Beyond Enchanting’ is delivered seamlessly to its guests.

Malaysian national, David de Brito is an experienced hotelier with his most recent role of Director of Food & Beverage for Cheval Blanc Randheli by Louis Vuitton in the Maldives.

His level of understanding of the luxury market and quality control processes make David the perfect candidate to work alongside General Manager, Dominique Rongé. The general manager comments on David’s appointment, “We’re extremely fortunate to have David head up the team of department managers in Phuket’s most exciting new hotel opening”.

Through his 22 years of extensive hospitality experience, David has also worked in Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, Doha, Bali and East Malaysia. David has a wealth of experience in pre-opening high-end resorts and Keemala will be his eighth in his career.

David is ever keen to develop and continue his education and is currently pursuing a degree in ‘International Business’ from Penn Foster and was awarded a Diploma in Hotel Management from the Hotel and Catering School of Pennsylvania, USA, as well as studying at Cornell University completing the Restaurant certification program.

Keemala Phuket is set to open in late 2015.

OTTO STEENBEEK NAMED NEW GENERAL MANAGER OF ANDAZ LIVERPOOL STREET HOTEL

Otto Steenbeek has been appointed the new General Manager of London’s five-star luxury lifestyle hotel,Andaz Liverpool Street, with effect from January 15, 2015. 

Otto, a Dutch national and graduate of Maastricht Hotel School in the Netherlands, started his career with Hyatt Regency Dubai in 1988. From there he extensively travelled the world for Hyatt and held various F&B Management positions before becoming General Manager of Hyatt Regency Kuantan in Malaysia in 2001. He has since held General Manager positions at Grand Hyatt Amman in Jordan and most recently was General Manager at Hyatt Regency Mainz in Germany.

Otto looks forward to taking the reins of an Andaz property for the first time. Having held the position of Director of F&B at several hotels, Otto’s love of food and beverage will stand him in good stead at Andaz Liverpool Street, which offers guests a wide variety of options in its five dining outlets from fine dining in 1901 Restaurant & Wine Bar, fresh sushi and sashimi in the Japanese restaurant Miyako, to pub ‘grub’ in George. He has plans to revamp the dining concept throughout the hotel to create a unique East End dining experience. He wants to fully promote the diverse culture of the local area within the hotel, offering guests an authentic and intimate experience of the neighbourhood.

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HORNITOS® TEQUILA EXPANDS ITS PORTFOLIO WITH THE LAUNCH OF HORNITOS® SPICED HONEY

Deerfield, IL (March 18, 2015) – Hornitos® Tequila continues to revolutionize the tequila experience with the introduction of the brand’s newest on-trend offering Hornitos® Spiced Honey, which features 100% blue agave Hornitos® Plata Tequila infused with natural honey flavor and a special spice blend. 

Hornitos Spiced Honey serves up a clean tequila flavor with a touch of floral honey, rich vanilla and a lingering spice finish. The warm, spicy and caramel notes of honey paired with a unique spice blend provide the perfect balance to the citrusy, peppery and earthy notes found in tequila. 

“The unique sweet and heat flavor combination sets Hornitos Spiced Honey apart and makes Hornitos Tequila the first major player to debut a honey tequila product,” said Gary Ross, Senior Brand Director of Tequila at Beam Suntory. “The special spice and honey blend is sure to appeal to tequila fans and those seeking an introduction to the spirit.”

Hornitos Spiced Honey is 70 proof and is currently available in 750ml and 1L, with a suggested retail price of $19.99 per 750ml bottle.

The newest addition to the Hornitos Tequila family has an exceptionally smooth and rich flavor, allowing fans to enjoy it neat, on the rocks, as a shot or in a cocktail. For those looking to enjoy Hornitos Spiced Honey cocktails, here’s a recipe for inspiration:

Spiced Honey Ball

• 1 part Hornitos® Spiced Honey
• 3 parts Ginger Ale
• 2 dashes of Angostura® Bitters

Preparation: Build over ice in a tall highball glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon.

For more information, visit www.HornitosTequila.com, like us on Facebook.com/HornitosTequila, or follow us on Twitter @Hornitos and Instagram @HornitosTequila.

Marriott announces water usage decrease in line with 2020 goal

Marriott has announced its water usage throughout its worldwide hotels has decreased in 2014 by 5.3% over 2013, and 16.3% compared to 2007.

The hotel group announced these figures on Sunday 20th March – the eve of World Water Day. Vice President, sustainability and supplier diversity for Marriott, Denise Naguib, said these figures are in line with Marriott decreasing its water usage by 16% towards 2020.

In 2007, the company set  2020 goals to reduce water consumption by 20% as well as energy reductions of 20% across its range of hotels worldwide, as part of a broader global sustainability strategy.

“We are extremely pleased with our 2014 water intensity results,” Naguib added.

“Water conservation is an area of sustainability where hotels, associates, and guests can directly aid the environment by reducing their water usage, whether it is through the fitting of low flow showers and toilets in guest bathrooms, irrigation systems installed on properties, or guests choosing to not have towels changed every day,” she added.

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Autograph Collection adds Boscolo Exedra Nice to portfolio

Autograph Collection has added a third French property to its collection of 24 independent hotels in Europe, the Boscolo Exedra Nice.  The hotel, originally designed by renowned architect Charles Dalmas, is situated on the Riviera and has been fully restored, replicating the beauty of its former glory years in 1913 and the iconic Belle Époque style of the time.

The recent renovations have been crafted by internationally renowned architects and designers; among them Maurizio Papiri, Massimo Iosa Ghini, Sergio Minorello and Simone Micheli. The lobby is steeped in old-world grandeur and contemporary style with marble columns and hints of sweeping glass that echo early 20th century style. The theme throughout is neutral, with pastel hues in white and cream inspiring a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

The 112 rooms include a Presidential Suite, an Executive Suite and a Boscolo Duplex Suite along with six Junior Suites looking out over the lively Boulevard Victor Hugo. All rooms feature a combination of marble and pale parquet flooring, gilding details, furnishings draped in crisp white linens and fragrant fresh flowers. Designed to offer guests a spacious sojourn in the city, some rooms even feature modular systems that allow the room space to increase to surface areas of up to 130m2.

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Shortage of chefs in the UK

New research has found there’s a shortage of skilled chefs across the UK with nearly 47% of vacancies for chefs proving difficult to fill, due to a lack of skilled applicants.

VisitEngland, the country’s national tourist board, has found chefs made up 21% of all skill shortage vacancies for skilled trades, suggesting businesses are struggling to recruit the skilled chefs they need.

Last week was English Tourism Week (14-22 March) so VisitEngland encouraged young people to enter the industry and in particular, urged them to consider being a chef as a career option during the week’s activities.

Emphasising the work already being done by the hospitality sector to attract young people to take up apprenticeships, the board also urged the entire industry to make greater efforts to recruit more chefs.

English tourism is predicted to be one of the biggest drivers of economic growth for the UK over the next decade. Tourism is already worth £106bn (9% of the total GDP) supporting 2.6 million jobs. By 2025, the value of tourism in England is set to double to over £216bn, providing one in every 10 jobs.

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Starwood adds four new hotels in Mexico

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced an agreement with GH Pegasus to open Aloft Tijuana, Aloft Coatzacoalcos and Aloft Poza Rica by the end of 2017, and an agreement with Hoteles Real Chihuahua to unveil the Sheraton Chihuahua Soberano Hotel, a strategic conversion, by November 2015. With these new signings, Starwood will further strengthen its footprint across Latin America and Caribbean while significantly bolstering its presence in Mexico, the largest market for the company in the region.

“We are very excited to continue to expand our reach in Latin America with our fast-growing Aloft brand and Sheraton, our largest brand – both of which continue to be sought-after by investors and guests alike,” said Jorge Giannattasio, Senior Vice President and Chief of Operations for Starwood Latin America and the Caribbean. “2015 is off to a great start, and we are seeing strong growth momentum in the region, particularly in Mexico, which continues to be the key driver.”

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New Moxy hotel at Stuttgart Airport

Property developer GBI AG is constructing a hotel with 176 rooms for the hotel chain Moxy located next to Stuttgart Airport and the trade fair grounds which are currently being expanded. The Swiss SV Group will operate the property.

Moxy Stuttgart

Moxy is part of the US Hotel Group Marriott and is primarily aimed at the new generation of travellers and young-at-heart guests, who appreciate a modern lifestyle and an excellent price-performance ratio. For them, the new Moxy in Stuttgart promises to be a special attraction e. g. by it artistic design (generous wall-art areas, stylish design furniture), spacious lounges, snacks and drinks available around the clock plus high-quality technology equipment. The latter includes, inter alia, free computer usage including Wi-Fi, Apple TV, as well as public meeting areas with writing walls and presentation screens.

“For us it is a special honour to implement such an innovative concept in day-to-day operation,” says Beat Kuhn, Managing Director of the Hotel Division of the SV Group. “Moxy combines first-class comfort and a stylish, lively atmosphere, and it creates a special kind of self service. This is tailor-made for travellers who at any time of the day and without delay wish to avail themselves of the services on offer.”

The SV Group already operates in Switzerland and in Munich hotels of the Marriott brands Residence Inn, Courtyard by Marriott and Renaissance.

“The positive experience we have made with the SV Group was ultimately crucial to opt for this cooperation at our Stuttgart project”, explains Markus Lehnert, Regional Vice President International Development at Marriott. The location in the south of Stuttgart is the most dynamic area in this already very strong economic region. There, a hotel with our concept fits perfectly.”

Every third hotel guest in Stuttgart comes from abroad – by far the largest group from the United States. These guests are often on the look-out for hotels that belong to a US brand and offer a corresponding bonus program.

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Hilton to rebrand Hotel Nikko Tokyo

Hilton Worldwide has announced the signing of a management agreement with Tokyo Humania Enterprise Inc. to re-brand Hotel Nikko Tokyo and manage the hotel as Hilton Tokyo Odaiba. On October 1, 2015, the property will be converted and unveiled as a new Hilton hotel, joining Hilton Worldwide’s existing portfolio of 11 operating and pipeline hotels in Japan and expanding the global hospitality brand’s footprint in the country.

To be rebranded as the Hilton Tokyo Odaiba

Rob Palleschi, global head, full service brands, Hilton Worldwide, said, “Japan has always been a key market for us and we are delighted to add Hilton Tokyo Odaiba to our portfolio which now spans across key destinations such as Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Okinawa and Fukuoka. Hilton is one of the most recognized brands in Japan and we look forward to providing both Japanese and international guests with the perfect stage to form memorable travel experiences with this new addition.”

“This signing underscores both the Hilton brand’s strength in Japan as well as our management capability, borne out of having operated here for more than 50 years, to drive exceptional experiences for both guests and owners,” said Andrew Clough, senior vice president of development, Middle East & Asia Pacific, Hilton Worldwide. “We look forward to partnering with Tokyo Humania Enterprise Inc. to launch Hilton Tokyo Odaiba as a strong addition to our portfolio. As we look ahead, it is important to add that we are thrilled at being able to play a part in supporting Japan’s efforts to deliver a showcase for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic & Paralympic games.”

A great base for leisure and business travelers, Hilton Tokyo Odaiba is strategically located in the waterfront area of Odaiba. Its immediate vicinity is a popular entertainment and shopping area featuring shopping malls, amusement park, bay cruise and parks with scenic views of the Tokyo Bay area. Hilton Tokyo Odaiba is well served by major roadways and train lines. It enjoys excellent accessibility to key business and commercial districts including Shinagawa and Ginza, and is approximately 8.5 kilometers away from the Marunouchi business district and 16 kilometers away from Tokyo International Airport (Haneda).

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